FAQs
Frequently asked questions
The things people ask us most at the counter. If yours isn’t here, ask. It’s what we’re for.
Ordering
Can I order online and pick up at the shop?
Yes. Choose pickup at checkout and we’ll email you when your order is ready, usually within two hours while we’re open. Bring your email or your name to the front counter.
Do you ship, and what does it cost?
We ship to addresses in the United States for a flat $5, and shipping is free on orders over $50. Orders placed by 2 pm go out the next business day.
What’s your return policy?
New books can be returned unread within 30 days with your receipt, for a refund or store credit. Used books, wrapped Blind Dates and candles are final sale. If anything arrives damaged, tell us and we’ll replace it.
Do you charge sales tax?
Yes, Michigan’s 6 percent sales tax is added at checkout on books and gifts. Gift cards aren’t taxed.
Do gift cards expire?
Never. You can buy one online in $25, $50 or $100 and we’ll email it right away, or get a paper card at the counter in any amount. They work in the shop and on this website.
Special orders
How long does a special order take?
Most books in print arrive in two to three business days, and we email you the moment yours is in. Books from small presses or overseas can take one to two weeks. We’ll tell you what to expect when you ask.
Do I pay a deposit for a special order?
No deposit, and no obligation. You pay when you pick it up (or when we ship it), and we hold it for you for 14 days.
Can you find a book that’s out of print?
Often, yes. Walt searches used and rare book networks and will give you a price and a condition before you decide. There’s no charge to ask.
Used books
Do you buy used books?
We do, on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 1 to 4 pm. Bring up to two boxes (or call about more) and Walt will go through them with you and make an offer in cash, or 30 percent more in store credit.
What kinds of books don’t you take?
We can’t use textbooks more than three years old, encyclopedias, condensed books, or anything damp, moldy or smelly. If we pass on a box, Walt will tell you who might want it.
Can you come look at a large collection?
For about 100 books or more, yes. Call or email us, tell us roughly what’s there, and Walt will come by anywhere in Washtenaw County to make an offer.
Visiting
Is there parking?
Free two-hour street parking right on Lindenwood Lane, and a free lot behind the building after 5 pm. There are two accessible spaces at the front door. The shop is a two-minute walk from the Route 4 bus.
Is the shop wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The front entrance is step-free, the aisles are at least 36 inches wide, the counter has a lowered section and the restroom is single-user with grab bars. There’s more on our Visit page.
Can I bring my dog?
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome, and service animals always are. Pickle, our cat, lives in the window and doesn’t go on the floor. If you’re allergic, tell us and we’ll keep her away from the door.
Events
Do I need to sign up for an event?
No. Every event is free and drop-in. We set out about 40 chairs, and for the bigger readings it’s a good idea to come a little early. Authors sign books after the reading.
Can I get a signed copy if I can’t come?
Often, yes. Order the book online and write “signed” in the note at checkout, and we’ll ask the author to sign yours at the event. Call or email us if you want a book inscribed to someone.
How do I join the book club?
Just come. The club meets the third Thursday of each month at 7 pm in the Back Room, it’s free and there’s no list to join. Read the book (or most of it) and bring an opinion. Club members get 10 percent off the month’s pick.
Still wondering?
Call, email or drop in. A bookseller will answer.