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Moe's Books: A Berkeley Literary Landmark

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Explore a world of literature at Moe's Books, Berkeley's iconic independent bookstore since 1959, offering new, used, and rare books for every reader.

Moe's Books, a Berkeley institution since 1959, stands as a four-story literary haven on Telegraph Avenue, near the University of California, Berkeley. Housing over 200,000 new and used books, it's a beloved destination for book lovers and a significant cultural landmark in the Bay Area.

A brief summary to Moe's Books

  • Monday 11 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 11 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-7 pm
  • Friday 11 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-7 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Moe's Books.

  • Explore all four floors to discover a wide range of genres and rare finds.
  • Visit More Moe's on the fourth floor for art and antiquarian books.
  • Bring your used books to sell or trade for cash or store credit.
  • Check the Moe's Books website for upcoming events and readings.
  • Be prepared to spend hours browsing the extensive collection.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    Moe's Books is located on Telegraph Avenue, a bustling street near the UC Berkeley campus. From the campus, walk south on Telegraph Avenue for approximately four blocks. The bookstore is easily recognizable by its large storefront and vibrant atmosphere. Be aware that Telegraph Avenue can be crowded, especially during school hours.

  • Public Transport

    The Downtown Berkeley BART station is the closest public transportation hub. From the station, walk south on Shattuck Avenue, then turn left onto Telegraph Avenue. Moe's Books will be on your right. AC Transit buses also serve the area, with several lines stopping near Telegraph Avenue and Durant Avenue. Check AC Transit schedules for specific routes and times. A single ride on AC Transit costs $2.80.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Berkeley. A taxi ride from the Downtown Berkeley BART station to Moe's Books will cost approximately $11, depending on traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before starting your trip.

  • Parking

    Parking near Moe's Books can be challenging due to the high volume of traffic and limited street parking. The Telegraph Channing Garage is located nearby and offers hourly parking. Rates are approximately $1 per hour with validation from select businesses. Metered street parking is also available, but spaces are limited. Be sure to check parking regulations and time limits before leaving your vehicle.

Discover more about Moe's Books

Moe's Books, established in 1959 by Moe and Barbara Moskowitz, has evolved into a literary landmark in Berkeley. Originally located on Shattuck Avenue, the store moved to its current location on Telegraph Avenue in the 1960s, becoming a central part of the Free Speech Movement era. Moe's revolutionized the used book business with fair trade policies, offering high prices for used books and fostering a community of loyal customers. The four-story bookstore houses over 200,000 books, including new, used, rare, and out-of-print titles. The fourth floor hosts More Moe's, an art and antiquarian shop with rare and collectible books. Moe's is more than just a bookstore; it's a cultural hub that reflects Berkeley's unique history and intellectual spirit. Moe himself was an iconoclastic figure, a pacifist, and an advocate for progressive causes, who kept his store open during curfews to shelter protesters. Today, Moe's Books continues to be a family-run business, with Moe's daughter, Doris Moskowitz, carrying on her father's legacy. The store remains a vibrant part of Telegraph Avenue, offering a diverse collection of books and a welcoming atmosphere for all. Moe's also buys and trades books, ensuring a constantly evolving selection.

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