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Sleepy Cat Books: A Literary Haven in Berkeley

Discover gently used books and a purr-fectly charming atmosphere at Sleepy Cat Books on Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley, where reading meets feline companionship.

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Sleepy Cat Books, an independent bookstore on Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley's Elmwood neighborhood, offers a curated collection of gently used books in a cozy, inviting atmosphere, complete with a resident cat named Lyla. Housed in the historic Soda Water Works Building, it's a beloved destination for book lovers seeking unique finds.

A brief summary to Sleepy Cat Books

  • Monday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Tuesday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a quieter browsing experience.
  • Check their schedule for special events like author signings or book clubs.
  • Don't hesitate to ask staff for recommendations; they are passionate about books.
  • Take your time; the cozy atmosphere is perfect for lingering over a good read.
  • Bring a tote bag for your purchases, as you may find more books than you anticipated.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Downtown Berkeley BART station, walk east on Center Street towards the UC Berkeley campus. Turn right onto Telegraph Avenue and walk south for approximately 15 minutes. Sleepy Cat Books will be on your left at 2509 Telegraph Avenue. AC Transit lines 6 and 51B also serve Telegraph Avenue directly. A single ride on AC Transit costs $2.50, payable with a Clipper card or cash (exact change required).

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Downtown Berkeley to Sleepy Cat Books will typically cost between $8 and $12, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Driving

    If driving, take Highway 24 and exit onto Telegraph Avenue. Parking on Telegraph Avenue is primarily metered street parking, costing approximately $1.50 per hour, with a two-hour time limit. The Telegraph Channing Garage (2315 Ellsworth St) offers the first hour free, with subsequent rates of $1.00 per 20 minutes, up to a daily maximum of $17. Arrivals before 8 AM are $8 all day.

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Discover more about Sleepy Cat Books

Sleepy Cat Books is more than just a bookstore; it's a literary sanctuary that embodies the spirit of Berkeley. Situated on Telegraph Avenue in the Elmwood neighborhood, this independent bookstore offers a curated collection of gently used books, creating a haven for budget-conscious readers and those seeking unique finds. Stepping inside Sleepy Cat Books is like entering a cozy reading nook. The shelves are lined with a diverse selection of genres, from contemporary and classic literature to mysteries, thrillers, history, memoirs, biographies, and children's books. The gently used nature of the books makes them accessible to a wider audience, promoting literacy and a love of reading without breaking the bank. What truly sets Sleepy Cat Books apart is its resident feline, Lyla. This charming cat lives up to her name, often found napping peacefully among the bookshelves. Lyla's presence adds a touch of whimsy and comfort to the store, creating a unique and memorable experience for visitors. Customers are welcome to pet and interact with Lyla, making her a beloved mascot and a symbol of the store's warm and inviting atmosphere. The bookstore resides in the Soda Water Works Building, a historical landmark dating back to 1888. Originally a soda factory and shop owned by Robert Agers, the building was designated a City of Berkeley Landmark in 2004. In May 1969, the building was the site of a tragedy during the People's Park Protests when a bystander was killed by a stray bullet fired by law enforcement. Today, a historical plaque commemorates the building's past, while Sleepy Cat Books breathes new life into its lower-level storefront.

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