Reviews of Subtext Books. (Book Store) in Minneapolis (Minnesota).

Subtext Books

228 Reviews

138 Comments

Book store

Book store

6 W 5th St, St Paul, MN 55102, United States

Description

Information of Subtext Books, Book store in Minneapolis (Minnesota)

Discover the opening times, the location, contact, popular times, photos and real reviews by internet users.

This place has a very good rate, they treat their customers well and you’ll feel welcome, super recommended

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Open hours of Subtext Books

Popular times

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Friday

Reviews of Subtext Books

Kristen Fried

I'm a huge fan of Booksellers Choice which make an excellent gift! You are supposed to submit things a person likes to read or favorite books/authors and they will select a title, but I prefer to provide random facts about a person and then have them select 3 titles. They hit it out of the park every time and it's such a fun gift!

Josh Geiger

Fantastic book shop nestled in St. Paul's downtown - helpful staff and the perfect size for a bookshop. I appreciate the curated book picks to guide your reading journey. Support small businesses!

Daniel Fernandez-Baca

Subtext is cute, intimate, and well stocked. It's not a big space but it's filled to the brim with great books and a peaceful vibe. My new go to bookstore!

Kev Fin

Sue is incredibly knowledgeable, generous of kindness, and a spark in any conversation, book related or not. We appreciate always our time spent here at Subtext Books, and so happy they are able to serve the surrounding community and beyond.

Byron Toole

Lovely bookstore. Staff is helpful and well informed. A regular stop for us when we visit downtown St Paul.

Chyanne Prescott

Visiting for a concert and decided to stop in. Ended up loving it even bought some artwork from local artists! The staff working was super helpful even offering to order a book I was searching for; however I'm not from the area so not necessarily but extremely polite!!

Benji Tri

Great little book store in downtown Saint Paul, close to the Excel Energy Center, the Science Museum, and the Central St. Paul Library.

Troy H

This is such a fun bookstore and the staff are very nice. The selection here is broad considering the actual size of the store. What is also good is that they have a surprisingly wide variety of titles they can order for you, and they can do it in person or you can order online, although there are some titles that need to be delivered to the store. The atmosphere is very relaxed and it's fun to come in, browse and use the sitting area to read for a bit and "take a test drive" before buying. The folks who work there are very knowledgeable about their selection and have great recommendations, even when you don't have anything in particular in mind. Everybody is vaccinated and wear masks anyway as a courtesy.

David Speidel

Went to a book reading here. I found myself admiring the great book selection during the reading. In addition my daughter amused herself in the kids section. The staff was friendly and personable.

Jason Willis

A quaint little place, which I'd a hidden gem. I would not have known this was existed if it wasn't for a book reading my niece was part of.

Amy Quick

Folks, I just want to say please support your local independent bookstores! I go to Subtext or Midway Used Bookstore, and believe me, there are a lot of other gems hidden in the twin cities! Pick up indepependentbook store map to find them! And you might want to check them out yourself because maybe the other reviewers don't value what you do. One thing: please put your hours on the door! in

Chris Kraft

Come here to find your next favorite book. The staff and owner are fantastic at recommendations and it's located in a lovely space in downtown St. Paul. Well curated selection of new, timely books and small publishers. This isn't a large bookstore, so you won't find what target and walmart have, rather you'll find books you've never heard of. Excellent, excellent, excellent.

darla kashian

Perhaps the nicest bookstore and staff in the Twin Cities and beyond. A real bookstore owned and staffed by readers!

Timothy Otte

A well-curated store that has the hot new titles, but really shines when it comes to their wide selection of superb books you may not have heard about yet. Those books will be just what you need that you didn't know you needed. The staff that is passionate and knowledgable and always ready with a recommendation (pro tip: ask them for something from an indie press!). I always leave with what I came for plus one pleasant surprise.

Nancy

Friendly staff and enticing book reviews...I went in for a gift purchase and after reading Matt's reviews I ended up with a great read for myself too. Handy store for cards, so on my last visit bought gorgeous embroidered hand towels that are so colorful and cheerful! Subtext Books supports local writers and they are worth checking out.

Skyler Vilt

Though I no longer live 8 blocks away, that doesn't change the fact that Subtext Books remains one of the best bookstores in the Twin Cities (if not the best). It has a well curated and diverse selection of reads, both fiction and nonfiction, and has never disappointed me when I've been on the search for my next read. The staff are kind, courteous, and extremly helpful, and they are incredibly responsive in helping you find what you're looking for or in giving a thoughtful suggestion. They also have a frequent buyers program that has helped me to both save and spend a lot of money there. Those crafty devils. I cannot recommend Subtext highly enough for your next bookstore visit.

Papa Kenn Media

Lovely little out of the way bookstore with a nice selection and helpful staff. Picked up a new copy of Good Omens to replace my old one that mysteriously disappeared.

Pearl Vork-Zambory

Nice place with a well-curated book selection. Read there in support of the book i wrote for: Under Purple Skies with Frank Bures, Sarah Stonich, and Kevin Kling!

Kamren Neddermeyer

I was really surprised to find an independent book store with so many relevant titles! They have lots of new books and the place is very well organized so it is easy to find what you're looking for. The woman working was very friendly and helpful. It exactly what I was looking for in a bookstore. I will be back!

Kassie BK

I love this place. They always have a great new selection, and they have a lot of used books you can buy in bulk--handy if you or someone you know reads fast. If you are a local, I highly recommend joining their rewards program. Every 10 books you get a reward. The owner is a book matchmaker. If you don't know what to get, she can match you with the perfect book if you describe things you like or how you want to feel. Every book she has recommended to me has been spot on. I love supporting this bookstore.

Danielle Cozine

This little bookstore is so packed it's kind of unbelievable. They have the perfect mix of unique titles and commercial sellers and they have super cute recommendations all over the place. There's some used books for sale outside the store too. The staff was nice, there's plenty of room to sit and read, and the atmosphere is lovely. They can also order just about anything you might want to buy if it's not in the store!

Stephen Zander

Wonderful book store! A can't miss if you're in the area. We can't wait to go back! Shop local and support local business. 😄 …

Gordy Moore

Subtext is everything that I love in small, locally-owned bookstores! I had been meaning to visit for years, but never had the chance. So glad I finally made it in! It is amazing how much time you can spend browsing in a cozy, very well-curated bookstore--especially one as relatively small in size as Subtext. The staff are extremely helpful and friendly! The first time I went in, they directed me to one book I was looking for, and immediately offered to order and put on hold the other book I wanted, which they didn't yet have in store. They called me promptly when it was in, and let's just say I have now purchased 4 books there after visiting twice! What a gem in downtown St. Paul.

Meghan Hatalla

This bookstore makes me miss St Paul so much. They're awesome about special orders and communication, and the store is always teeming with interesting new books for all ages as well as unique cards and gift items.

Greg Peterson

Lovely, comfortable space, awesome staff who are passionate about books, great location Dunn Brothers right across the street, and excellent selection. Not a BROAD selection, a carefully curated one, for which every fifth book on the shelf feels like a must-read. And it just feels good to support an independent bookstore. I'm sure I could have saved money by buying the books I picked up from Amazon. And I love Amazon. But they get enough of my money.

Joaquin Muñoz

Fabulous selection of books, friendly staff, and a great vibe of inclusiveness. I always find great gems in their used section, and get great ideas from staff picks. Subtext is a great place to visit after dinner downtown. You'll always find something good. Pros: Small, comfy and homey space Great balance of used and new books Friendly and helpful staff

Virginia Housum

My go to local bookstore. I love this place! They are extremely helpful at finding books (including out of print titles) but Sue also gets you thinking about topics in new ways, so a visit is also exhilarating. I can’t wait to get to the store again, and not just to pick up the books I have on order.

gregory seaberg

This is a charming little bookstore. The space is small but the select is very well curated. The staff are friendly and helpful without being overbearing. I would suggest coming here if you are looking for a good book and want to find something a little off the beaten path.

Libby Kate

It's a nice hang out place. You don't have to buy a book here (though you should because they have a very nice variety). I usually end up just talking to the employees who are very nice people. There are reviews for the books and the couches and chairs are very comfy. Nice atmosphere overall. 10/10 would recommend

Terry Horstman

One of my favorite bookstores in the area. It’s welcoming, cozy, and packed with charm. It also boasts one of the most knowledgeable staffs I’ve found in any bookstore. Be sure to ask for recommendations. An easy 5/5 shopping/reading experience.

Linda White

This has got to be one of the coziest, most friendly bookstores around. They have a great selection, and wonderful staff. I had my doubts when they moved downtown, but I am very glad that they have found their niche there. If you are in St. Paul from out of town, look here for your book haven.

stephen holewa

The owner is wonderful. I had a great conversation about the book I purchased. It was a meant to be moment. I found a cookbook by Anthony Bourdain that I have always wanted and finally found it on the day he passed. The owner and I shared a heartfelt condolences about a cherished author. I will be back for sure.

Karl O' Toole

Nothing I like better than a great bookstore with a knowledgable staff. Got some great recommendations from the charming owner. Went back twice over a two day visit. Now if I can just start reading as fast as I buy. Lovely little spot to browse in a very nice part of town.

Trevor Burns

Great locally owned shop. Helpful staff that will find the book you're looking for or suggest something new to try. Has a good buyer rewards program and is a fun place to find your next book in. 10/10 would recommend.

Linda Jasinski

Went to pick up books that I ordered from the store and looked around for a few minutes. It has some great books! Wish I could have stayed longer but downtown parking is spendy.

Emily Fleming

Nice little book store. Both times I've been in, they have had public readings from local authors. You can tell the staff really read the books and they will offer recommendations.

Jared Frasier

I was in town for a business trip. As you probably know, St. Paul shuts down at night pretty early. I was going for an evening walk and was pleasantly surprised to find a book store (this book store) open. The selection of books is quite broad and I had a hard time narrowing down which book would fly home with me. I ended up settling on Dawkin's "Brief Candle in the Dark." Whenever I am in town, I will find my evening-in-the-hotel material here.

Richard C

Small local bookstore. Great, friendly staff and a couple of bargain carts in the hall. If they don't have the book you want, they will order it. Also, they give great advice, give them a few simple wants or likes, boom, great book in your hands!

Craig Willford

This is absolutely my favorite book store. Everything here is wonderful.

Britta Solberg Salas

Subtext Books is my absolute FAVORITE bookstore. Other commenters have been correct--a fabulous selection and friendly staff. They pack a lot of material into a small space. If they don't have it , they order it which typically only takes a few business days. Do all your book shopping here!

Corey Butler

Nice variety of books in a small space. They make good suggestions too. One of my favorite places to visit in downtown Saint Paul.

Michael Alexander

Hands down my favorite bookstore in the metro. Their staff is incredibly helpful, the collection they’ve curated inspired, and the “staff picks” have lead me to some of my absolute favorite new books and authors.

Candia Lea Cole

Great place with a vast selection of books to choose from. Had something in mind and the staff had these items in stock and very grateful for their support of other small businesses.

Nathaniel Brelsford

I go here at least once a week to do homework o just sit down with a book. Truly a lovely place with a loving staff. I even asked if I could work there but it seems they didn’t need anybody. XD One time I asked if they had a certain book in stock, and they said no. Then they proceeded to find the book online and order it right there in front of me. We ended up talking about how cool certain books were and I walked away from that interaction with a book recommendation on a sticky-note and a smile on my face. Keep it up Subtext! You’re doing something right.

Jonathan Posthuma

Book of the month suggestions and staff picks are always excellent. Great used books and large selection for a smaller store. My go to bookseller in downtown.

Tim Charles

Awesome small, local bookstore. If they don’t have it, they’ll order it for you! Staff are super helpful and knowledgeable.

Dan Zabrowski

Well curated selection of many new and unique, thought provoking books. Geared towards intellectual discourse. Friendly, super knowledgeable staff. Loved it.

Adam Keil

Great local shop with good atmosphere, selection and prices. Sue was an absolute pleasure to talk with, very helpful and obviously well read! Highly recommend!

Arlene Kelly

The staff is friendly and interested in what kind of books you like. I had a library book with me last time I came to buy a book and the staff person was so taken with my library book she wrote down all the information so she could order some.

Cassandra Owens

I may be biased towards local bookstores. This one was easy to find and cozy, with an eclectic collection of books, posters, totes, and various literary supplies. The treats for neighborhood pups clinched the fifth star for me.

Christin Holy

This was the FASTEST shipping I have ever gotten from a brick and mortar retailer. Pretty sure I got my book one day after ordering it. I will be ordering from here again!

John Fritz

Great place to grab a book when in downtown St Paul. Sue is a wonderful gal. They have book readings through the month. As a local author having done a reading I know the readings are fun

Holly Buttrey

My favorite bookstore in the Twin Cities! Matt, Sue, and Sarah always have excellent recommendations.

Jake Scott

I ordered online and the book arrived by media mail just as fast as any Amazon package. I was stunned at how quickly I had my order. I am happy to support local bookstores.

Elizabeth Young

Really lovely bookstore. A large selection, especially of history and fiction 😍 The staff are also friendly 📚❤️ …

Daniel Sibo

A great little of bookstore and a very helpful staff. I was in town for a business meeting and had a chance to stop by. Found a wonderful book as I was browsing through the shelves.

Michael Curie

A beautifully curated selection of books, friendly staff, relaxed environment. The best indie book store I've been to!

Steve Kummer

Cute little downtown bookstore. Comfy and quiet and just a little subversive in terms of its offerings. We liked it and would come back next time we're in downtown St. Paul.

Elliott Foster

The best independent bookstore you’ll find: author-friendly, great customer service, and the most knowledgeable staff around.

Humberto Rivera

This is a must visit and revisit bookstore. Matt & Sue are ABSOLUTELY wonderful. Charming place, comfy couches, pages and pages of great stories.

Alex Widdel

A fine bookstore with a nice owner. I simply needed a card when I visited but when next I need a new book this place will be at the top of my mind.

Steve Smith

Certainly not the biggest but they have quite a diverse array of books in every category. Extremely engaged and helpful staff! Wonderful all around!

Chelsey Finnegan

I recently ordered books online and picked them up from the store. It was very convenient and I will absolutely be ordering from and visiting them again!

Niklas Menzel

Lovely book store with a great selection of books! Great hand written reviews by customers and very friendly staff!

CWH

Great place to shop for books! Sue, behind the counter is awesome. I visit Subtext every time I come to Minneapolis. ❤️

Sarah Trott

One of my favorite bookstores! They have a really good selection and staff is very knowledgeable and helpful.

Danica Goshert

Local gem; great selection and recommendations.

Jack Tauring-Traxler

Cozy little book store with sitting spaces and a good selection.

Kevin Dahm

Small bookstore with a good selection and passionate well-read staff. Don't forget to bring a few quarters for the Stillwater prisoner poem gumball machine.

Earl Kellner

Great bookstore containing the personal touch of handwritten tags for certain books. If you cannot find a book, Subtext will special order it for you if needed.

Gerick Engle

Wholesome and stocked with great lit! Perfect St Paul Book Store.

Aditya Ranade

Fantastic bookstore with great selections of fiction, Minnesota authors and translated works. Very knowledgeable and pleasant staff

Chris Follina

I’ve been going to Subtext for years now, as they have such an amazing selection. Sue, the owner, is one of the friendliest people on the planet, and the staff are always extremely helpful.

Andrew B

Quaint little bookstore with skilled and knowledgeable staff. Inviting. I believe there are book club meet-ups for those who are interested.

Troy Baumann

Helpful staff and great selection. A fine bookstore in downtown St. Paul.

Kevin Schoonover

Great selection, knowledgeable staff recommended books and a historic location. Browse or curbside pickup.

Joe Masco

We enjoy going here as it’s easy to get to from our building. Great atmosphere and a few couches to sit down and read.

Gary Lovely

Fantastic bookstore. Incredibly glad they don't focus on textbooks.

Dani Boren

Cute little bookstore, just a little cluttered..which I guess adds to the local effect! Love all the events they put on too!

Elissa Schufman

Great curated selection of books. Had everything I have been thinking of buying (or have bought) in the last 2 years.

Jason Westphal

Take a "page" from me and try this cozy bookstore out. Friendly folks, and if they don't have what you want they'll order it for you.

Kevin Reed

Great bookstore and appreciated the clerk wrapping my book for a birthday gift

Thomas G

Small selection, high prices, very beautiful clean shop forever

Ruthi

An eclectic selection and quiet atmosphere make Subtext Books a wonderful place to peruse and explore.

ML E

Excellent store, good selection. Nice to talk to people who know books.

Amber Bouret

Small and cozy but, a great selection. The staff is always helpful and have good recommendations.

Nicola Koh

good indie bookstore. some cool events and a nice selection of books

rod mason

Great idea runs up against reality. Literature selection is excellent, the rest is so-so. Of course, the small scale works against it.

Tab Fellows

Love to bring in a Dunn coffee from across the street, settle into a comfortable chair and pick out a book.

Jay Eberhardt

I like this book store, its nice and cozy. Staff is very friendly

Brent Peterson

Super friendly staff. I feel completely welcome every time I walk in the door. A gem in downtown.

Hugh Hartzog

It’s a local bookstore. Of course it’s great. Knowledgeable staff helps too.

Princess Titus

Sue n even the other patrons were warm n welcoming ill be bacl

Jennifer Linstad

Wonderful indie bookstore in the heart of downtown St. Paul.

Blair Williams

Great place for book community, which is probably its biggest strength. Check the recommendations, book clubs, event list.

Liz Pearson

So fantastic to have a independent bookstore in downtown Saint Paul.

Greg Mizer

Great small bookstore, well curated, eclectic, local authors.

Ryan Goeken

Downtown Saint Paul's best indie book store!

Patricia Aldridge

I love the book signing Danni Starr Get her book Empathy and Eyebrows

Shevek McKee

I love seeing this in Downtown. I look forward to buying more books here.

Larry Yank

All the comfortable/stimulating esthetics of an old salon/book emporium.

Jim Rhodes

Great selection with hand written recommendations and lots of seating.

Laura Holland

Knowledgeable, friendly staff and a wonderful selection of books.

Matthew Peterson

Stopped by while traveling. Could've spent much longer browsing a nice selection of books.

Anna Larson

Great selection and easy to order it they don't have what you're looking for

Nyla Worker

Cute bookstore with a Minnesota authors section. Staff is friendly!

jeffrey nelson

If I could be reincarnated as a bookstore, I would come back as Subtext.

John McKinney

Cool bookshop. I like the handwritten book reviews by staff.

Andy Jones

Awesome selection, great 'staff picks', and friendly, helpful staff.

Daina Lynn Davenport-Fey

Charming space in the heart of downtown Saint Paul. New fave.

Tim Thielman

Friendly staff and great service.

Megan Fesser

Fantastic curated selection and extraordinarily helpful staff.

Justin Swanson

A nice independently owned book store.

Sterling Duck

Great selection. Great atmosphere. Great location.

Jolissa Skow

A beautiful bookstore with great events!

Dan Vogel

Comfy chairs to puruse books before buying.

Erik Spreitzer

Friendly downtown atmosphere Nice relaxing place

Jon Lundberg

Support your local book store!!!

Ben Obernolte

Great selection and lovely staff!

Chavonn Williams Shen

Awesome selection and awesome events!

KELLDL Loveland

Husband found a book!!! Staff very helpful!!!

David Medow

A most wonderful bookstore.

Lisa Arrowood

Nice little book shop!

Noah Rooze

Nice local book store

Elayna Leonard

Love this bookstore!

Brandon Mckinley

Great staff! Thanks!

um m

i love mr matt

Sean Kelliher

Cozy and warm atmosphere

Luke

Loved it

Michael Gauer

Quaint

Julie McCarville

I live this bookstore.

Karen St. George

Great selection

Michael Zwank

A bookstore with character!

Jordan Lyseng

Cozy small bookstore

KYLE. E. KOPPY.

Thank you!

pa wi

Unique place.

leslie grossmann brown

Amazing place

Anne Marie Champagne

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