Riverby Books

Category:	Used Book Store
Address:	417 E Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003, USA
Phone:	+1 202-543-4342
Site:	riverbybooksdc.com
Rating:	4.4
Working:	11AM–7PM 11AM–7PM 11AM–7PM 11AM–7PM 11AM–7PM 11AM–7PM 11AM–7PM

Location

Photos 53

Reviews 23

Austin Graff

Riverby Books is the lone bookstore on East Capitol Street and may be the closest book store to the US Capitol Building. Its in a row house and the bright light emerging from the large front window invites you in. On two floors, there are hundreds of books about poetry, travel, adventure, and theres even a corner for childrens books. However, what makes this little bookstore unique is the DC history inside. As you walk through the aisles, youll notice vintage, historic books about DC and even programs from historic events in DC. Another perk of this shop is youll notice several of the books are signed by the author since so many authors live in DC. They stop by and sign books! On a perfect DC day, take a walk from Lincoln Park down to the US Capitol and stop in Riverby Books for inspiration and a little piece of DC history.

A Private User

What is going on with the staff here? I went in last Friday in the day time and the young man working there seemed miserable to be there. He acted as if the fact that I approached him to check out and buy something truly annoyed him. The prices and selection is good but if the staff is bad it makes it a bad experience. He should really get another job if being there bothers him so much. The woman that worked there a night or two before then was too busy chatting on the phone to even care that someone was there.

Ellen Wiencek

My favorite bookstore in DC! Its a little off the tourist track, so its not as heavily-visited as other stores in the area, but it is worth a trip if youre in the neighborhood. The staff are very helpful, and I always find an interesting book to take home. They also have a great assortment of goods from local patrons who sell their relics or art (ie Reagan-era election pins, local letterpress cards, magnets featuring RBG, etc). Prices are fair, and the atmosphere is cozy. The makings of a neighborhood gem.

Will Sherman

I never fail to find a treasure buried here! Whether Im looking for something for myself or something as a gift for someone else I walk out completely satisfied, a book under my arm, and wearing a smile. Lori is an awesome shop keeper, always accommodating, and willing to help either find a specific book for you or help you to decide which of the many choices available suites your need best. Shops like this dont happen by chance. They are built on good old fashioned care and attention.

Demian Perry

They dont have every book youre looking for, but they specialize in mint-quality copies of the essential books. The buyer is discerning, which makes for a delightful experience...a bit like reading the Sunday New York Times.

Megan McCarty

Adorable used-bookstore on the Hill. Loved the character and charm of this shop, and the friendly employees. Selection isnt huge, but if youre looking for more of an experience this is your shop.

Meaghan Brown

Fantastic neighborhood bookstore with a focus on classics and recent fiction. Solid section on DC and politics, as might be expected. They give good prices on trade ins too

Obak Beches

Went in to get some Field Notes but they were out. The inside was smaller then what I imagined. But a quick look was enough for another visit next time Im in DC.

Todd Nobles

A great used book store with an interesting selection and quirky set up. Only complaint was that the section labels were hard to find

Bryce Jahner

The woman at the counter wasnt super helpful and was a bit rude, but the store has a great selection and is well maintained.

Tommy Brown

Absolutely charming book store, a place you could lose a few hours browsing the well cultivated shelves.

Matthew Wagner

Great little bookstore. Amazing staff knows the inventory without computers. Boggles my mind.

Nick Moyer

Very cool used book store. Most of the stock is history and literature rather than sci-fi.

Oliver Peckham

Cool, old-school selection in a lovely setting. Helpful staff and beautiful old editions.