Reviews of Ken Sanders Rare Books. (Book Store) in Salt Lake City (Utah).

Ken Sanders Rare Books

566 Reviews

359 Comments

Book store

Used book store

268 S 200 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, United States

Description

Information of Ken Sanders Rare Books, Book store in Salt Lake City (Utah)

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 Ken Sanders Rare Books

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Reviews of Ken Sanders Rare Books

Marcus Daley

I came here about 3 weeks ago with my wife one night to check it out, and we both walked away with mixed feelings. On one hand, there is an incredible amount of books to pick from and I found so many new books I never heard of or thought to find. In that way this store is truly a treasure and I hope it never leaves. But on the other hand, there were things that could use improvement. The cold temperature and concrete floors don’t give it the classic cozy feeling usually associated with bookstores. Add on top of that the exposed urban ceiling with eclectic decor and its kind of a cold environment. The aisle’s were also very close giving it a cramped feeling that we both felt acutely with the crowd there. We both felt relieved instead of sad when we left. Overall this is a wonderful place and I truly hope it doesn’t ever close its doors. But there are also some improvements that could be made to truly make it too-notch.

Dale McCord

2022 09 22 Sunday= Sweet gem of a book store, worth stopping by any time you are in the mood to remember what a book smells like! Cluttered chaos, it's freaking splendid! Grabbed a couple used books for new price, but it still made me feel all warm and cuddly inside to support this place! New and used books packed to the brim, and then some! I'll be back!

Dennies Chung

This bookstore was nice! Like any good used bookstore, there were books lying around everywhere. It did seem a little cluttered and it made it seem that the rare books selection was limited.

Elizabeth Wilcox

A fabulous mainstay in the book community in SLC, and a must-visit if you love books (especially if you're hunting for great used & vintage/rare book finds). Absolutely love this store!

Spaz Landon

I can get lost in here for hours definitely worth checking out if you like books, especially older and esoteric books, lots of Utah history as well.

jacob moss

Really fun bookshop! It has a good combo of rare (and expensive) books along with many cheap gems as well. I read one review that said it was cold in the building, I didn't notice that, it seemed well heated to me. The aisles are a bit close together, but that makes room for more books! On a busy day it may be cumbersome to get around, but I think it adds to the charm. I didn't catch the person's name who checked us out, but they were very nice as well. The only problem I have is that I want every book in the building, and I can't read that fast😂

Abbigayle Behan

I always enjoy my time in here ❤️ such a beautiful book store!

Brianna Leavitt

I work down the street and have recently been stopping in just to look around on little coffee breaks. Im sad that I found your book store so late into it being forced to move. Im glad to know you will be relocating to The Leo. The spirit of your bookstore is very special and unique. Props to creating something extraordinary and im looking forward to taking my daughter to visit at the Leo when you move!

Megan Wabel

This store is fantastic. They have such a good vibe in there. GREAT selection of old books, they even have cheaper ones in the front that are cool to look through. Great shop history, super friendly and helpful staff when needed and they are supportive of an adventurous quiet spirit to go in there and do their own thing, it’s super nice not having people down your throat every time you visit a shop. They even have old prints and other cool stuff for sale. I bought a reusable cloth grocery bag and I’ve been using it for over three years. The shop smells like old books. Super awesome, would 100% recommend to anybody.

Ella Camaro

I used to stop at that store on my way from work on a weekly basis, if not daily when I lived in SLC. Came back after 7 years and it's just how I remember it. ❤️ Friendly staff. SOOOOOO many books. I just wanted to buy everything 😅 I found the books that I wanted for a while and even the books I didn't know I needed 😃 plan on spending at least an hour in there. The selection is huge. Loved the cart full of Alice in Wonderland books.

Sophie Karp

I can’t believe it took me 3 years in UT to find this store. It’s simply amazing, if you love books this is the place to be. I could honestly spend all day there.

Jessica Warner

I haven't been able to determine the artists for all of these pieces, but "Power to the Peaceful" was done by Jeremy Collins, jer.collins (instagram). The circle figure of a book reading a book was done November 2016 by Elaina Court, takeheartmakeart (instagram).

sarah pedersen

Words can’t describe how much I love this place! Best community. Amazing staff! And the amount of books is unreal!

Dylan Filkins

What an amazing book store! This bohemian style book shop is the place to go if you are looking for a wide arrangement of books. They have your standard classes to the rare first editions. It's a wonderful place to sit back and enjoy reading. The staff is always helpful and friendly to work with. They stated only about 5% of the books are cataloged so get ready to go for a hunt sometimes! The staff will point you in the right direction though.

Kyle Drexel

Ken Sanders, purveyor of fine books, local legend, raconteur. I worked here for a year about 15 years ago, and it was one of the most interesting years of my life. I bought a Wodehouse when I stopped by. Go support your local bookseller, folks.

Michael DuVernois

Great Salt Lake City tradition, with brilliant Beat and Local sections, historical ephemera, and a broad book selection. Edward Abbey has his own shelves here. Would have stayed longer but it had gotten hot and stuffy in the late afternoon.

Paige Kulson

I loved this place! The smell when you walk in is that of books!! There are some great treasures in here. Careful while walking around as there are books on the floor, which as bad as I felt for the books I absolutely loved that this place was bursting with books from all around! On my walk out I noticed some really great posters too, which I will be back for! The staff were warm and welcoming without being over bearing! Come get lost in this place its the best!!

kitty paws

I’m in love with this bookstore. It’s so cute and has a lot to offer.

Michael Nakata

You need time to browse their huge selection. Most of their books are not cataloged on their computer but the staff is very knowledgeable and helpful. Shop is not air conditioned.

Louis Spooner

Great assortment of great books!! I liked what they have just didn't find anything I needed!! A great source for hard to find books!!!! Will return soon!!

Taylor Lamb (Be Light Candle Co)

Super awesome iconic historic gem and famed book store existing in Salt Lake City! There are awesome rare reads here as well as first, second, and third editions of books you wouldn’t be able to find anywhere else. I was so happy to finally get to experience this place!!!!! I have lived in Salt Lake City for almost 3 years and I hadn’t been here til just recently. It is everything it is talked up to be as far as a bucket list place for Salt Lake City while you are visiting or whether or not you live here. The building is iconic and the outside makes for great pictures as well as some wall murals close to the side of the building!

Stephanie Brito

I’ve been coming here since I was in highschool - me and my friends used to ditch class and explore all the cool little books in the store it’s not just all books it’s magazine and old posters from places it’s definitely a really cool place and the staff is always nice :) also very quiet so you can read in peace :)

Anne-Marie Flanary

Visited this store while in the valley. So many used, rare and unique books to choose from. I spent an hour in just one book aisle. You would have to spend many trips there just to make sure you didn’t miss anything. So many books they have started stacking them. Can’t wait to go back and check out their rare section. They have all the books organized by very specific categories, I like that. Plus when you walk in the whole place smells like a book. So many choices and hardly any two the same, helpful staff.

Jake

Honestly not the best selection, and the infatuation with Abbey - more specifically The Monkey Wrench Gang - is unfortunate. The perpetual mess is also a huge detractor.

Abigail VB

A fun book shopping experience! Had a day to spend in Salt Lake and it was nice to pop by and browse the shelves. I liked that I couldn’t anticipate what books I might find. I ended up buying two books I’m excited about reading! The only downside was the narrowness of the shelves. I was worried I might bump into them, but it ended up being okay.

Keith Turner

If you love the smell of old books and wondering through stacks of books on a variety of subjects this bookstore is for you. I love shopping there. There are a mix of old and new books. If you are looking for history of the American west this store is a great resource. I highly recomend this book store.

Jordan Kidney

This is a fantastic store. I was only in Salt Lake City for two days and going to this store was high on my list. Walking through all the rows of books lived up to everything I expected. A wide range of unique books and fun finds. I say this store is a must visit if you are a book lover.

Hannah Lee

Love this place. Great prices and a really nice selection. Love how they are handling the pandemic through limiting the number of people in the store, we felt totally safe. A real staple in the Salt Lake community. Thank you!

Chris Kellett

Lots of beautiful sets of books and a place you can spend some time in. Even chairs to sit on to read or visit. Wonderful store. I found a few more special old books to add to my collection and will stop again next time I'm in Salt Lake City. Thanks!! :)

Luis Silva

Great bookstore with helpful employees and a variety of fantastic books! It’s a bit warm in there, so be prepared for that if you go on a sunny day, but it was definitely a treat to visit!

Ramo Bord

I love love love this place. The atmosphere is fantastic. it's a surprisingly large space and is very densely packed. The prices can seem almost arbitrary sometimes; some books being overpriced and others under. None of the prices were unreasonable in my experience, though. the store isn't 100% perfectly organized, but it's fun to get a little lost, and, if you're in a rush, the employees are very knowledgeable and helpful

mightbe batman

I traveled 3000 miles to visit this store. I was not disappointed. The selection was great and the staff was helpful and friendly. Parking was easy which is always a plus in downtown Salt Lake.

Bruce Boyes

Great place with rare or odd books you won't easily find online and here you can touch and read them. Plus intimate house concerts with local musicians like Kate MacLeod who is a Utah and national treasure for her fiddle and voice and guitar and writing about key events her in the West like coal mining disasters.

Gazelam Ale

Excellent bookstore for many years! I must see for anyone that loves books. They also have a great poster selection, postcards, and strange films. The kind of place I like.

Chet Ross

An incredible selection of books. It's like the Wonka factory, and I had the golden ticket.

Pigeon Persona

An absolute gem, so glad this is here in SLC. A great place to find classics, new releases, and stuff in between. Reasonable prices, well organized. The staff is also very helpful and kind, and always very knowledgeable.

Lorraine Jackson

As if you need anyone to tell you that Ken Sanders is a magical vortex to a billion histories, theories, and alternate universes. It has great Utah content, and a lovely staff. Their rare book collection surpasses all others. Also love the sci-fy sidewalk sales during ComiCon. Obviously, go go go! If you’re local, you know, and if you’re visiting, it’s quintessential SLC.

Ben N (Erv)

This is a fun book shop. It has lots of old vintage classics as well as modern stuff as well. It is fun to go in and take a look around. Judging the prices for some of the newer stuff it may not be the best bang for your buck, but if you are a collector of vintage books, you'll be hard pressed to find somewhere better in Utah.

Cristina Andicoechea

A must stop every time we go to Salt Lake City, our favorite bookstore in town! Amazing variety of used and rare books. We can spend hours easily in the store!

DENNIS N. DUCE

I love this place. If I o my had one complaint it would be how dangerous it is. I always walk out with one to two bags. Guess I need another bookshelf.

Gooegle PlusSux

Simply the best place to get lost in in SLC. Extremely knowledgeable owner & staff.

Julie Mellus

Knowledgeable and Honest. Be prepared to hear the TRUTH about your Collectibles/Antique Items. He'll straight up tell you what they are really worth. I Love that in a Business Owner.

Alexander Fellman

I was walking by the store, which I had been told was open only by appointment. I stopped at the door to look at the information, and was invited inside. I'm glad I went. Ken Sanders is, I'm told, an institution. And it does seem to live up to this promise. The staff were knowledgeable and welcoming, and I was able to find a few good books. Be aware, however, that it is slightly more expensive than the nearby competition. Mass market books tended to be between $4 and $10, rather than the $1 to $5 price point that I have seen elsewhere. Still, worth a stop. They have a large selection of non-fiction books on western topics that I'm surprised they don't lean more on.

Lauren Brewer

What a treasure trove! Every time I visit this shop I find gems to add to my collection! The staff is knowledgeable, and have the insight to give great recommendations! I am going to need another book shelf soon! Thank you to the person running the desk. They helped me gain some info on a previous find that I couldn't personally find data on, AND pointed me in the direction of some wonderful aviation novels. One even had a very old photo in it! Fantastic!

Richard Martin

Staff was very helpful. Great treasures can be found here.

Hamilton Hardy

This place blows me away every time. If you are looking for something to do in SLC this is a great place to blow your time on. I always find something to read and something to buy. Staff are super helpful and friendly and if you get a chance to meet Ken, he’s super awesome. Highly recommended.

Nate Wooding

Eclectic collection of books, priced totally randomly. The maps especially seemed absurdly overpriced, while some rare comics seem like a deal. Not sure if I was supposed to negotiate or something. Four stars only because they seem like good people and have a free book selection outside.

Matthew Montgomery

This is my favorite bookstore in Salt Lake. The selection of books is massive, from floor to ceiling and everywhere in between. The service is always good. There’s such a clear sense of community here. I always feel closer to Salt Lake City when I buy books here. There is really something (or many things, in my case) for everyone, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.

Dean Hamilton

This place is awesome! It amazes me the things they have here and the books that come across their desks. I encourage anyone who wants to see seemingly endless shelves of books on every subject under the sun... To check out Ken Sanders Rare Books. If for nothing else, pop in to see a bit if SLC History... and don't forget to ask to see the Rare Book Room... It is a special place set aside in the store that's for the "High End" collectibles 👍

Christopher Well

KSRB is a true gem. Many unique and interesting out-of-print books. Fair prices and the opportunity to buy local. There’s even a small parking area on the north side of the building. A+ experience every time I visit.

Chris Call

Fantastic used book store. Prepare to get lost in a good way as you wander the narrow aisles of wall to wall print.

Jacob T.

Seriously a cool place to just wander around. Wish i had more time to spend here. Maybe on my next trip to SLC.

Joshua Jesse

So amazing, so unique. I hope it stays around after SLC gentrification...

Ben Simpson

To meet Mr. Ken Sanders was super awesome! I love the old books and the smell was like I was home. Thanks for seeing me on such short notice.

Ali Barainca

This is a great bookstore! I didn't visit this store for a while because I thought they must only carry really expensive books. While they do have some expensive and rare books, most of the books on their shelves are really affordable. They have a nice selection of leather bound books and then thousands of other books on every subject imaginable. You can find something for everyone here!

Leah Leavitt

Ken Sanders provides such incredible escapism & is completely enamoring. It can get a little chaotic- but that’s its charm. They have such an amazing selections & gems you couldn’t find elsewhere. Everything is affordable. Also I’ve become addicted to buying old antique postcards. There’s truly an art to it, and they’re like... $5 to get stuff from the 1800s. Ken sanders rules.

Annie Liston Walters

Lovely book store with a beautiful collection. With the help of a great staff member, I was able to walk away with a beautiful first edition Truman Capote. Just what I wanted. I hIghly recommend

Dave Zirker

We visited them for the very first time as we were passing through salt lake and we were impressed! There was a pretty good selection of books and lots a nooks and crannies with books on the floor piled high. We will definitely return

David Drotar

Ken Sanders Book Store is a great place to look for books that you want and also find books that you didn’t realize you needed.

Steve Chavis

They were very helpful and have some unique items.

Danica West

Love it here, both for browsing and buying. Not incredibly wheelchair accessible due to stacks of books on the floors and narrow aisles. Organization is more of a theory than a practice, but that's part of the fun of browsing (and you can always ask up front if you're looking for something specific). Make sure to check out the cool postcards in the old card catalog drawers.

Corey Garff

Awesome little book store with a great staff. Everybody there is passionate and helpful! Not only do they have a wonderful collection of any type of book you can imagine (including special editions and first editions!), but they also have some incredibly cool old maps, newspapers, leaflets, and prints. If I want to buy a personal gift for somebody, this is usually the first place I go.

Joe Roberts

The best bookstore and one of the coolest spots in Salt Lake City. Their selection is impressive, including a large variety of classics, contemporaries, and oddities. Their selection of used poetry is incredibly impressive, and you can usually find the poet you are looking for. They also have a special selection devoted to Beat literature (Ginsberg, Kerouac, Burroughs, Snyder, etc.) Edward Abby has a huge presence in the store (as with most local bookshops in Utah), so you can find all of his books and memorabilia. The selection also includes a diverse variety of art and used postcards if you're looking for some fun decor for your home library. The prices are second-to-none. For thirty dollars, you can usually walk out with four to six books that you have always meant to read. Ken Sanders has a good relationship with local authors and poets, and many of them do readings at the store when they release new books. If you are paying our city a visit or have lived here all your life, make sure you get over to Ken Sanders' whenever you can.

Jamie Koonce

SUCH a neat book store. They have some really AMAZING books. Great for book nerds, like myself, and collectors. This was my first visit. I will definitely be back. The girls that work there were extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and so friendly.

Castille

Ken Sander’s Rare Books remains the heart and soul of environmental counter culture in Salt Lake City. It’s not just a landmark, it’s not just historic; this bookstore is nothing less than fundamentally essential to the culture and spirit of Salt Lake City.

Andrew Gulledge

They have a reasonably priced original key to theology. You read that right. Notice I didn't say key to the science of theology. Fine tuned sympathies indeed brother parley. This place and its peoples are metal AF

Toshiaki Hihaku (Toshito19)

The atmosphere perfectly represented the items of sale. There were a wide variety of book you wouldn't be able to find at your local Barnes and Noble. Book fans would be able to spend an eternity there, and find novels to keep them occupied for hours. The air was a but dusty, however this didn't get in the way of my experience.

James Muir

Great used bookstore full of treasures! It's obviously been there a long time and has so many books for such a small space. They do have a lot of new books mixed in as well so check it out next time you're looking for a book.

Eamonn Morrissey

Bookshops are rare enough in the USA. And most are chainstores. This is an oasis in a desert - a fantastic place to find new books and authors.

derek palmer

Pretty good place as far as Rare books go! all of the other places I've been to that have rare books are either way better than this place or not quite as good! Ken Sanders however was awesome to deal with and his rare book store is the only rare book store I've ever been to but I'll bet it's the best rare book store in the nation I would put $17,542 on it!

Brandon Christensen

A uniquely Utah used book store packed to the rafters with rare editions, mass paperbacks, and an assortment of miscellany I couldn't do justice with words. My life's only regrets are not buying things I discovered here before they were gone. A friendly and brilliant staff; Ken is a local legend. Drop in and browse... guaranteed to find something you'll love.

Nelson Knight

Moving soon to new digs - check ahead if visiting in early 2022. Ken Sanders is a Salt Lake City book legend going back to his days at the late, lamented Cosmic Aeroplane Bookstore. (How we miss their calendars and the smell of mingled incense and paper!) This is one of the City's bookshop gems and the books and ephemera here are a treasure trove, particularly for people interested in Edward Abbey, '60s rock concert posters, and Mormon/LDS/Latter-day Saint rarities. The staff know their stuff! And they definitely know more about books than you do. Ask for suggestions or help and they will happily share their knowledge. Worth a visit that will turn into hours of browsing.

Sessie Tippets

What a gem! The place is filled to bursting with book. Because most of the books are used you can get your favorite titles at a great price. Many will be first editions. Staff was friendly and helpful.

Mark Sanders

Worth going even if you don't buy anything. A lot of amazing history. Books, photographs, postcards, posters.

Jacob Ramey

Picked up a few books here. They have both affordable selections and a huge array of various books. If you're looking for a place to pass the time and pick up a new book this is the place, but be careful because you might spend all day here, it's far more interesting then any Barnes and Noble or library.

Lance Wren

Love Ken Sanders Rare Books. I always find great books at such good prices. This place smells like books. Not your fancy bookstore. Rows and rows of bookshelves stuffed with rare finds. Found two books I've been looking for here.

Kathleen Sanders

We have shopped here in the past when in Salt Lake City and make it a point to return. A treasure trove of books and a helpful staff.

Damian Ackers

I was able to find a few really nice books for inexpensive prices here. They have low cost books outside and near entrance that comprise various topics though not in a particular order. Inside the store the staff was very friendly and helpful. The shelves and isles are labeled with the topics found in them. Worth a visit sometime. Might be surprised at what you find as well.

C S P

Basically the best book store I've ever been in, and will ever be in. Old discount books and new fresh books. And let's face it. When it comes to books older is often better. Stop in and give this guy your business, you owe it to your self as a book reader to check out this awesome store.

Thomas Gappmayer

An absolute gem of a used/rare bookstore. Don't go in expecting Barnes and Nobles - this place is as eclectic as it gets! Wonderful selection, great second-hand books, very cool. Must visit!

Carla Eskelsen

Fabulous selection, great atmosphere, knowledgeable, friendly staff. And Ken! Great events, as well. Not to miss.

Mieke Oost

Amazing bookstore. If you love books this is the place to be.

Todd

I have never had a book purchased from me but this store and I have had some rare books. The answer I get in the phone is "we really aren't buying much at this time". Seems like if you had some rare books it would attract more buyers but I am not a bookstore owner. I have walked in with books I sold on Ebay for well over $200 and would have preferred not to hassle with Ebay and do local business. I don't think I will return here because nothing really changes in inventory a whole lot. There are some neat prints.

Jase Wytaske

Such an amazing place!! Wonderful selection of theory for all you radicals and leftists out there. Super cool monkey wrench gang merch, and free post cards. Probably one of the best bookstores I've been in.

Austyn Salyers

This place was absolutely amazing! Their book collection is so vast and extensive, I promise that anything you could possible be looking for they have. It's such an eclectic little book shop with fair prices aswell. Staff is friendly and also helpful, will definitely be back.

Halyn Kennedy

I’ve frequented Ken Sander’s for years. This is the place to go for friendly people. It’s the place to go for unique finds. I’ve found countless first editions and books to fill my bookshelves, as well as postcards to fill my walls. I walk around downtown just to end up here. It is by far one of my favorite places to be in Salt Lake City.

Mickelle

Just found this place a couple months ago and my husband and I LOVE it. We are big book readers (and purchasers), and this place has some really fun finds. The owner is so friendly and helpful (as well as the other employees). This place is seriously a hidden gem of Utah. Love it.

Ian Sawatzki

Ken is super knowledgeable and very helpful. Definitely check this place out!

Anika Keller

I always love this place, it's so peaceful and has any kind of book you want and books you didn't know you wanted 😁 the parking lot is a little difficult, if you have a low car be careful going out of there …

Brittany Zwier

Beautiful book store. A must visit.

Edward Bunker

Absolutely a joy to explore on your own. Several times as a student, I would be desperate for a source to cite for a paper, only to walk into this store and find exactly what I needed. The selection is truly impressive, and the smell transports you. Less impressive if you are hoping to sell books, even for store credit. The offers are pretty low-ball, but if you are looking to buy, look no further.

Desi Parker

Awesome bookstore. Not very easy to get around on crutches though. Books piled all over the place. I could wander up and down the aisles though for hours because the books are incredible!

Megan Rees

Love how they are managing how many individuals can be in the store at once. It really makes for a safe experience to browse all of the amazing finds. Seriously the inventory is amazing here.

Jason Woodland

One of my favorite book stores of all time. Phenomenal selection and Ken is a wonderful person with an extensive knowledge of Utah history. Fun atmosphere and very helpful staff. I 100% recommend this place for any book lover.

Juliana Cardon

Sooo cool and fun!! Went here for a date night and had the best time just browsing for cool books. I found some I liked, but ultimately nothing “sparked joy” enough for me to take it home and that’s ok!! I loved the clutter that was in the shop and all the Knick knacks. The murals outside were cool too!!

Logan Wangsgard

This book store is one of the greatest local shops. Find treasures and suggest titles that the community will enjoy. Always a pleasure to talk with Ken and staff. A must for anyone spending time in downtown SLC.

Brad Gregory

Surprised to see any negative reviews, and I have to think it's as much to do with the reviewer as with Mr. Sanders, his store or employees. Met Ken at an antique expo and realized, after the losses we suffered when our house burned up a few months ago, that his store might be a place to replenish my torched library, especially some of the more obscure items. After spending a couple of hours (but still too few) in his store today, and being treated warmly by his staff, I have to say that this is a great place to find unusual or rare books, and, if you give yourself time, things you may never have heard of! Five stars, and thanks to the staff...who were helpful as I needed, but who had also apparently deduced I had been in a bookstore or two before and so also left me alone. An enjoyable experience all around.

Melissa Parada

Addictive place to visit. So many hidden gems to find and the prices are great. Love this book store.

Alex Loveless

2nd favourite book store I've ever been to, besides Cameron's in Portland. Have great friendly staff, and books stacked wall to wall. This store is sure to have many gems for anyone who comes in.

Kim S

I could have spent another hour there if I wasn't forced to keep migrating back to the front for air ventilation. It was hot as hell in there but this review is posted mid - August and I'm older. The young lady attending the front was so lovely, kind, patient, and informative though. She looked up books for me on the computer and also guided me to the sections I that might be able to find those Titles not in the system I was looking for. I think I'll go back in Winter next time. TOO HOT in summer for me.

Nate Allen

Ken is a great guy and the bookstore had that genuine feel. I would suggest it for anyone looking to escape the corporate bookstores. Ken also was a visitor in one of my classes at the University of Utah and he has a ton of great stories. Definitely pick his brain if you get a chance while in here!

Shaun Smith

Hidden gem in Salt Lake. This bookstore has character! The staff is extremely helpful and kind. Worth the visit for locals or visitors seeking a unique space with thousands of books to choose from.

L Fikstad

The selection is quite limited. If you remember Sam Weller's used books from years ago, it is not comparable. It still draws crowds, and I think it this is all you know, it's a good place to browse. I've kind of made the move to digital, so the prices seem high to me. I went to a SLC Library used book sale the same week. The selection was far better.

Ali Arbuckle

This place is heaven on Earth. The holy angels of literature bless this place. They watch from above as the crisp, aged pages are turned in the hands of young creating new memories and old reminiscing their's. Please come support Ken and his beautiful shop.

Thomas Gomez

Huge selection of books through all price ranges, on all topics you can think of. During the pandemic only four patrons are allowed at a time, and masks are required. That said if you are browsing their collection be prepared to be looking for awhile it is packed with books.

Shannon Babb

I have always been incredibly pleased with the diversity and quality of books that I can find through Ken Sander's book store. Yes, the ones I purchase are pricier then the cheap mass market paperbacks that you can find nearly everywhere now days, but these books are treasures that are more than worth the cost.

Lorenzo Swank (박재민)

It's me, the only Foreigner who writes decent reviews in Korea. except for some reason this is showing up on my list of things to review when I'm in Korea. The only thing you need to know about this place is that it's got a lot of rare books and Ken Sanders is an absolutely amazing person. I don't know if he's dead, but if he's not then I'm sure he's rocking it up in the basement.

Alex Manev

There are so many different books there. First editions, collectibles.... there is something for everyone. I was looking for a specific book and came our with 6 different valuable volumes. It also has a nice and friendly atmosphere.

T Quinney

Great place to roam, read and get lost. Like waking up from a good dream upon leaving the store. Its "the bookstore" you always see in the movies! You'll be there awhile...Enjoy!

Saxby Chambliss

so many gems of books, and Amazon can go to Hell. Ken Sanders is Salt Lake City and we are so Lucky to have him.

lm

They have a plenty of good books, reasonably priced, so that I always leave with several. They have books about the labor movement in Utah and the IWW, which is how I found out about Joey Hägglund. Best place in Utah.

James Seely

The best bookstore, hands down. Ken Sanders is incredible! Do yourself a favor, stop book shopping on Amazon and turn to Ken Sanders instead, you'll probably save money, and you'll support a local business! I keep a wishlist of book in Amazon, and then I give Ken a call and see which one he has and which ones he can find. He has yet to let me down. Amazing place.

James Carson

Definitely an awesome place to visit if you like a good book! Their selection was really cool

Don Mucheck

This is a great bookstore for Salt Lake City, I love the staff there. They have a large collectuon is books and genre to choose from. This is the second best bookstore I've been to in my lifetime.

DigiKill

There are a lot of interesting old books here. I spent over three hours browsing the isles. A lot of the older books are dry reads consisting mostly of historical references, books on state geography, government proceedings, and LDS history. There are a few shelves devoted to antique fiction and literary classics. I did not personally find any book pre 1800. The pricing here appears random and arbitrary. I don't understand why so many books are over $100. Many books are not in my opinion 'rare', just old and overpriced. Several $100 books had multiple copies right next to each other. The shop keepers don't seem interested in bargaining or explaining thier prices. I cross checked a couple of newer used books with their brand new Amazon prices, and found them to be within a dollar of one another. I found one antique book priced at $2500 just laying on the floor! Why? If we're that valuable you'd think it would be behind glass. It's a nice store and worth a visit. There's a sitting area to read, and they have poetry reading every once and a while. The owners are free to price as they see fit; just do your research before committing to their asking price.

Maggie Conser

Take an allergy pill and enjoy the ride. Absolutely love this place. Will return. Thousands of old stacks and a mishmash of everything you ever wanted.

Kimberly J

This place is heaven to a bibliophile like me. There are thousands of books and are such good prices. Staff is really kind and helpful.

Jonathan Wrigley

Cool old bookstore. You can find a lot of original editions but they can be a smidgen expensive. Had a cool ambiance and places to read. It is a tad cluttered but the staff is very helpful and knowledge about book locations.

Michael Wells

This is the place to go when you are looking for something rare, or need to ask questions of someone who knows what's what. Make sure you grab a special R Crumb/Edward Abbey edition of The Monkey Wrench Gang, Ken arranged this meet up, and owns the press that prints the books, so you can buy a new copy of this unique and semi-rare edition of the book brand new.

Angela Layton

Amazing place to just relax, browse through books, and read. There are also many high quality original prints at this store.

Matt Denney

I recently bought a rare map from circa 1780 and sent an email to Ken about the map to see if he was interested in possibly purchasing it. Much to my surprise this "famous guy" from my fav show Antiques Roadshow immediately responded in a very professional, polite way. Needless to say I am ever more impressed with Mr. Sanders now!

C.J. Beall

I have not shopped much inside but they are very generous with their free book wall. Take a book leave a book. Awesome!

Juan Bendejo

What a wonderful bookstore with so much character and infused with the spirit of learning--feels like home! Thank you Ken for being so personable and helpful.

Tyler

It can be a bit overwhelming. They have so many books to browse through. You will often find first edition versions of a book priced well over $100 right next to paperback version for $1.50. It's so big you can go lost in there. The staff are very friendly. I only wish it was a bit more organized.

Anthony Maybury

I was very pleased with their selection. I came here specifically for older LDS books published by Bookcraft and they did not disappoint. If I am ever in salt Lake City again I will definitely be back here again!

Emma Ricks

What a fun place to just browse and hang out around books. Definitely has that book smell in the air! Overall, just a great atmosphere.

Auston Wayment

Found books I wasn't even aware existed and at great prices too!

Todd Milne

The best original Book shop in the valley. And it is cool that even on Sundays this place is open for a few. Is a treasure box for one who enjoys information, education and learning through the old school method, reading!

Bradley

Honestly a favorite place of mine to be whether I intend on buying something or not. So far, I haven't been able to leave without having bought something of interest. There's just always something to find.

Lindsi Holmstead

Anytime you can support local and re-use you should! This place has a lot of local history in the building, the staff, the books. The staff is happy and helpful. Check out the art on the building when you're there.

Tina Frena

A fantastic secondhand bookshop. All books are in great condition. Prices vary - it puts a focus on rare books, so prices can be high. They also offer vintage postcards, maps and prints.

Jake Dinsdale

One of the best bookstores in town. Mountains of books to browse and helpful, knowledgeable staff. I want a room in my house that looks like this place.

Maddie Nelson

Ken Sanders is my go-to bookstore! There are so many interesting titles and collections, plus an amazing selection of local books, maps, etc. Such a cool and unique shop!

Scott Nebeker

Something odd happened while I was in this building. Perhaps an "energy ribbon" has caused some sort of space-time distortion. You see, early in the afternoon a few days back, I walked-in. Then, there's this brilliantly white flash from all around me, only I was now standing outside with a bag in my hand. I look inside the bag and there were two hardback versions of books I'd been looking for, 'Awakenings' by Oliver Sacks and 'The Meaning of it All' by Richard Feynman. Upon checking the receipt, it turns out I had purchased them at a worryingly low price. I think you'll agree with me here, I was afraid to go back inside. It wasn't early afternoon anymore, it was 6pm and I had missed a meeting and was late for another. I have to go back to figure-out what the hell happened in there.

Mina Mar

I was simultaneously in love and distraught by the amount of books crammed into one little space. I wish I could have spent more time there, but I was overwhelmed looking at the first shelf. Aesthetics are great, though.

Taylor Hughes

Great place to go if you’re looking for something specific. Nice and quiet. Wasn’t greeted by any staff in the 30 min i was there.

Gerald Stanley

The young lady was very nice and helpful she found the best books ☺️ I was looking for ☺️ thank you 🙂 …

Tom Kimball

One of the finest new, used, and rare, bookstores in Utah. Dealing in Modern First Editions, Beat Generation, Western Americana, and Mormon books. Vintage posters, postcards, ephemera. So much fun! Free parking and close to a Traxx station.

Courtney Iverson

I’ve been looking for a particular book for 6 months and finally found it here. Friendly, helpful staff and so many interesting books. Can’t wait to go back.

Isaac Dunford

They are always so helpful! I found a cool poetry book about nightmares last time I came here.

Jason Haydon

Wonderful store full of unique finds

John Warnock

BOOK HEAVEN. These guys totally bite hard into their status preserving Edward Abbey's legacy (until recently they even had his NPS hat and shirt) but they don't forget any of the other great Utahn authors. Definitely stop in.

Joseph Vasko

I wasn't really that impressed with the "rare" books. They had some older maps, but not antiques, that erected priced ridiculously. For the price they were asking for a 1950s vintage map of the USA I can buy 3 folio sized mallet maps from the 1600s

Camille Smith

So many treasures and a great selection of books. The staff is always so wonderful. This is a place worth visiting.

Diane Kuster

One of the best used book stores around. Excellent selection of Western US history. A must visit if you're in Salt Lake City.

Jon Knighton

Great bookstore. I try to make it down every couple months. I always find some great books and prices are fair.

Matt Valdez

This place ought to be a must for any bibliophile passing through Salt Lake. Every time I've visited Ken's shop, I've left carrying out a book or two. Leonard Cohen music played the whole time I was there this afternoon—in memorium of the late great Mr. Cohen.

Lucas Medrano Project

Amazing little book store hidden near downtown SLC. Huge selection of all sorts of literature in a cozy atmosphere.

Kirsten Allen

Step into Ken Sanders Rare Books and take in the stacks and smells of the West's most evocative collection of used, rare, and new books with brilliant ideas - and people - in every corner. Don't miss this Salt Lake City gem.

oriah knorr

Remember the smell of old books. Find strange novels and non-fiction never seen before! Ken Sanders is a Salt Lake antiquity.

Vincent Georgescu

This place is a gem. Such a special atmosphere with books literally everywhere. You're gonna find something you weren't looking for when you walked in.

Cohlrabi

Amazing book store, has just about everything you could imagine. Magnificent smell too of course.

Brian Kubarycz

Excellent used, rare, vintage, collectable bookstore. A true pity it has been priced out to make way for more soulless and redundant condos. Major loss for SLC.

Chris Sheldon

Neat little store. Has a bit more than books. Definitely recommend.

Kathryn Rowley

This is the best ever old time book store! If you love books Ken Sanders Rare Books is the place.

Menley Stewart

This place is HUGE. Great selection, tons of different things to look at. I got a really cool piece of artwork that I put in my living room.

Nathan Atkinson

If you're looking for a quaint, awesome bookstore with crazy amounts of book that are a sort of organized chaos, look no further than Ken Sanders. The store is a work of art.

Connor Hansell

Wonderful local bookstore with heaps of charm. A great selection of Western Americana and friendly, helpful staff.

Matt Sanders

Has books of all kinds and ages. Rare also. Great book store and always has...

Keith Fessenden

Ken Sander's book store is always a great place for a book lover to visit. Once again I found books I didn't know I needed.

Tara Griffith

There are so many awesome books. It's a little overwhelming but so cool.

Walter Talley

Fun small book shop with real character. Find some crazy cool stuff tucked away. Staff is always nice and welcoming.

Bryan Rasmussen

Take your Ghostbusters equipment... Smells like a book store should smell and has a ridiculous archive of used books... Awesome service and selection... Pricing is great!

Puck Figger

Very nice place to find an old book or magazine. The people are great there! Very nice

Brett Weidmann

Amazing bookstore. Clear out your schedule, you could easily spend the day here.

Johnny Stone

Great place for book lovers and collectors, just takes time to shuffle through all the books. There is thousands of good obscure books.

Cole Cox

One of my favorite bookstores in town. Surprisingly great for dates. Fun to wander through the books.

Brandon Burrup (Sanpaco)

Good selection. The hours stink. You're more likely to catch your mechanic than to find this place open.

Dennis Box

A Salt Lake City institution. Keeper of the official and unofficial record. Oh and if you like used book stores, GO

Bonnie Bingham

Staff was knowledgeable, kind, and helpful. It is STUFFED with books and pure delight to peruse

Jeff Frichette

Super cool store but soooo communist/ socialist... LOL It's all good, everyone has their own propaganda!

Michael Montoya

Easily my favorite bookstore in the city: I put it in the same scale as Powell's in Portland or any other notable bookstore. Shame I heard it will be moving.

Maxine Fryer

I’m reminded how much there is to know about the world I live in. Heck, past, present, future, it’s all fair game and somebody’s specialty. How am I supposed to keep up with it all? I’ll take my cues from Ken.

Mike Trach

It's an old-school junky bookstore, but I don't mean that necessary in a bad way...I think that's the vibe they're going for. Seems like the kind of place you would find books you weren't looking for.

jessica richter

I placed an online order was very impressed with the customer service, email contact and fast shipping. I will definitely be shopping more at this book store.

Jacob Gillespie

A excellent place to find that book that's gone of our print. And there are chairs everywhere to let you sit a read a bit before you buy.

Wesley Clay Swank

Ken Sanders is the white bearded man who appraises books on Antiques Roadshow. He really knows what he is talking about. Tho for some specific rare books there is more than a mile long wait list.

Braxtron Advance

super awesome bookstore with a great and ever evolving stock. super cool rare books and super reasonably priced regular used books.

Ken Black

Could spend hours in this place!

Jordan Sweat

Great store with very helpful staff and an incredible selection of rare as well as classic books

Roana Aldinoch

Place was kind of a mess. Hard to really find anything. Great selection of rare books and ephemera, though.

Kelly Vogrinec

Love this place, so many great books and things to see. Ken is very friendly and great to talk to.

bryant henslee

Most awesome bookstore I have ever visited! :) Lets just say, I stocked up.

Alex

Seems like a good place

Gary Hawley

I have long-loved this shoppe. It’s practically a satellite branch of the Hogwarts library—but nothing is restricted.

Rich Vosepka

This book shop is like a treasure chest full of knowledge and character. And books. So many wonderful used books!

Mia Richter

I loooove browsing through the aisles here.

Sneyk64

Nice vibe

Lindsey Anderson

Awesome selection of books and very good prices even on the really rare ones.

James Petty

These people especially ester who always helps with my special orders a young gentle who is on aspecial order and Mr Keen Sanders his knowledge of vauble books Ken Sanders will never lreafdyou astray

Veronica Watson

One of my favorite bookstores. It's so well edited and yet, haphazard in that wonderful way that all used bookstore fans love.

Lloyd Brimhall

Delightful old style used bookstore. Big place. $1 books on tables on sidewalk

Patrick Hovsepian

Awesome spot to get lost in. Excellent collection of books and staff that's extremely friendly, informed and helpful

Becca Barton

As I'm a lover of books, I'm a lover of Ken Sanders! They host engaging community events and are home to friendly, knowledgeable staff.

Kristi Nelson

Loved it! You can definitely spend a hour wandering through this place.

Spencer “Spoons” Tracy

Finally found a Louis L'Amour book for my dad that he hadn't read. If you need a book they will probably have it

Corrie Crow

Seem like they had a lot of great selection and they had organized rows of topics but there is a lot of messes to walk around to get to it.

Brent Barnum

Such a unique bookstore. I could spend days in there browsing.

Jerry Gayler

One of our favorite book stores to visit whenever ever we are in town, we come all the way from vernal to buy books

Jennifer Brown-Carrillo

I love this shop! It's a great place to search for old treasures.

carly reed

Tons and tons of books. They also have postcards and prints for sale. If you love books, expect to stay a while.

Ben Kolt

Nice selection of books. Clean and well kept.

Pioneer Book

All of us here at Pioneer Book are big Ken Sanders Bookstore fans. Keep up the good work!

Michael Ramsey

There's nothing like the smell of a real book store. Ken Sanders is the best around!

Kerem Cantekin

Many people like the place, and I can guess there are a lot of cheap books here but too me the place looks too much unorganized.

Mehrdad Vaziri

Awesome bookstore, friendly staff lots of books

yeah buddy

The man is knowledgeable and friendly. Personally I didnt check his selection but enjoyed the store and his input.

Mike Layton

Found some books that were hard to find, even on line. Great store.

Angel Wise

Beautiful Stacks, check book prices in front cover.

Sushanto Kumar Saha

For rare and vintage book lovers, it's a heaven!

Dark Light

Awesome book store! Great place to find rare books!

Hiram Miller

Awesome selection of books, great staff.

Bryce DeNovellis

Tons of cool and unique books, they have a very wide selection of books.

Nonnie Kobay

Ken is friendly and straight forward. I appreciate that. His younger staff seem "put out" and unfriendly.

Carolina South

This is the type of place you never want to leave

Sam Thomas

I could walk around this place for hours without running out of interesting books to find.

Hugh Drinkwater

An amazing selection of rare books. Ke n is great to talk to and is very knowledgeable.

Mark Carlson

Quirky little book store. Any book you could want as long as they can find it:)

Donald Schmidt

Good selection I've purchased a few books from here

Christopher Kakuyo Leibow

Best bookstore this side if the Rockies. If you love poetry this is the bookstore for you.

Elías Castillo Rivera

Excellent place to find books, if you love the them !

luke williams

Amazing selection of books with an awesome atmosphere!

Sharon Fr.

Great Book store! You can find any and everything.

Jeff Munger

Amazing collection of rare and antique books. Friendly, knowledgeable staff.

Rachel Wesemann

rad place with amazing workers and a great selection of books

Collin Meier

A proper book store- SLC needs more places like KSRB

Ethan Ensign

Obscure stuff. You never know what you will find! Great prices. Friendly and helpful employees.

Tracy Hurd

Always magical. Great used books and knowledgeable staff.

Alex buie

Fantastic staff and a plethora of wonderful books!

Kalena Smith

I went here for the first time today, and I was so impressed. Awesome place!

Scott Nelson

Helpful staff. Knowledgable staff. A nice store with no pressure to buy.

Camille MacCauley

Found some awesome books about butterflies that I doubt I’d find anywhere else

Lincoln Murphy

It is what it says it is, a place to find rate books. Staff is always super friendly.

Ben Press

Good selection of the classics, labelled shelves and moderate room to move around

Franck'ay “Shay” Denney

So many books so little time. If I could I would seriously live here.

Brenden Whitney

I love this store! So many little treasures

Lorna Hansmann

If you love old books, this is heaven!

I am Groot

Excellent selection

Tacoma White

Best bookstore around, a proper bookstore with awesome local history.

Nicholas Rademacher

They have a lot of cool stuff, but it's very disorganized.

Longus Ordrac

I always find at least 1 diamond here when I visit.

Dan Regan

Great place for used and rare books.

Alexa Gunnell

So cool! Just as an old book store should be.

Anthony Mills

This place is like church for me, I could look through books all day.

B. Murphy

Pretty chaotic but the E. Abbey selection is fabulous.

Lillian Maude Madsen

I love this store so much c:

Leanne Sullivan

Amazing selection and prices, really friendly staff

Jen Jesse

Ken Sanders is cool and his shop is cool. This place is a gem.

RockWithAGun ;

Great books, great atmosphere, great prices.

Kimberly Vennebush

I could spend all day here digging for hidden treasures.

Levi Taylor

You'll spend hours looking at awesome books!

James Barkin

Item just as described. Very interesting inventory.

shawn switzer

If you love wall to wall books, old and new, drop on by, this place is for you.

Brent Earl

Exceptional place and so much more. Great for all ages.

Lauri Langston

The Underground lives in SLC! If Ken Sanders doesn't have it, you don't need it!

Roy Rojas

So cool and so many books?

Troy Kump

I love this place and need to go back. Like tomorrow please!

Deone Campbell

Amazing and fun!! Ken knows everything about books.

Elaine Clark

You never know what you'll find, but you know it will be good.

Evan Palmer

Sick place to browse and fight the establishment

M. O.

Always a treasure to be found! Places like this make life better!

Robert Morriss

You could get lost for months in here. It's amazing.

Ivy Flinders

Very unique place. I love to browse...

Tim Roberts

Ken Sanders is the coolest book store in town.

Cameron Maughan

Best books in town, and an amazing staff

lunarennui

Check out the art outside as well as the literary art inside!

Mike P

Ken and his store are the best.

David Tessis

Best used bookstore in town!

Peter Walton

Awesome place, my inner bookworm is purring!

Gabriel Cabrejas

Different and great. Always interesting books.

Merced Bernal

Of course great place

Philo photog

Best bookstore in town

Craig S

Awesome book store and more.

Dan Wibbenmeyer

Has just about everything in books

Stormy Glow

A fun experience!

Stevie Watson

Love how helpful they are when looking for a strange title. Thanks!

Paul Ludwig

They have everything. It's like an attic inside an attic.

David G Montoya

Iconic spot. Do yourself a favor and stop by.

Helen Clare

Awesome place for used books.

Chance Tolman

Best bookstore in the rockies

Lisa Holloway

Interesting but did not really like it

Danny B Stewart

My favorite SLC book shop!!!

William J. Walsh, MD

Best book store in SLC.

Kim Coburn-Groenewold

You will never know what you will find and it is wonderful!

Dylan R Gibson

I like roaming through this store and I can be myself.

William Smith

Found book I was looking for at a reasonable price

Moms Investments

Unable to help so far. We will be there for sure.

Erik Struble

It was just ok a pretentious staff not at all helpful

erica duran

All kinds of books. Anything you can think of..

Shane Macfarlan

Lot's of books, maps, and historical photos

Cassie O'Leary

LOVE THIS PLACE HIDDEN GEMS AWATE YOU

Crystal Mills

So many wonderful selections.

Carson Olsen

Absolutely thw nicest people ever

Neil McDonald

Old, dusty smell but with copious amounts of books

Binary Model

Great staff👍👍👍👍👍 …

Ki Finnsson

An icon of Salt Lake culture.

Emily Grant

Such a fun hidden gem.

Kimberly Hall

Always an adventure!! A good one!

A N

They better not ever close shop!!!!!

Bee Davis

What a find! I could spend days in there.

clb3663

Best prices for paperbacks in SLC

Just Kirk

If I could live in this place I would!

M G

Always something old and interesting to find

Eileen Greene

Stellar. Inspirational breath of fresh air.

Bryan Phillips

Great place full of hidden gems

The Keva

Good books - good karma.

John Pritchett

Friendly people good books

kevin chandler

Best local bookstore

gregory albares

A real bookstore, like in the old days.

Satoriscope

They have the rare book needs

Randy Tate

Extremely cool store!

Drake Shattuck

Great book store

Adam Ford

Love Ken. Love his books.

Ken Morrison

Ken was very knowledgeable, and was very helpful.

Natalie Kolsen

Wonderful bookstore!

James Petty

Excellent staff knows what they are doing

Robert Savoie

Great hidden bookstore

Haley Eastham

Big excellent choices 👌 …

Peter Scott

Rare and banned books!

Jan van Unnik

Must-visit for every bookworm!

Evan

There'll never be enough books

Susan Marshall Gordon

Fun place to explore

Derek Wilde

THE BEST!

Jennifer Burns

Love this store!

Jason Christopher Hartley

The Strand, but in SLC.

Crystal Newbery

Books you won't find anywhere.

Joe Hunter

Very helpful and friendly.

Janet Laws

Great! I loved it!

Chris Pleis

Has something for everyone.

Duncan Brown

Love it

Amy and Kevin Cox

Pricey.

Gary Mackelprang

An icon of Salt Lake City.

Kelly Hannah

Must!

J3R3MIAH

Good selection.

Dav Larson

This is a cool place!

Benjamin Christensen

cute little book shop

Terry Cook

Most awesome

Tj Davis

Neat book shop

Piper Catalina Avila

what a bookstore should be

Brogan BabyCakes

love this place

Judy Smith

Lots of books!!!

Celia Walters

Tons and tons of books

JEFFandLORI Anderson

Love this place.

Derek Wilde

Amazing. Exactly what I was looking for

Vikas Mittal

Variety of books

DAVID WOODS

Lots of books

Joseph Martin

Great people

David Crandall

Interesting place

Crystal Flynn

A rare gem

Dave Hortin

Awesomeness

great basin lodge

Great guy

Rosa Salazar

(Translation) I liked it but the problem is that everything is not well accommodated and a book fell on my face and it was painful.😳 (Original) Me gusto pero el problema es que no esta todo bien acomodado y me calló un libro en la cara y fue doloroso.😳

plinio gutierrez

(Translation) The owner was very close to Crumb, it's worth visiting (Original) El dueño fue muy amigo de Crumb, vale la pena visitar

Andrew Cutler

Eugene Leskov

Cristian Franco

(Translation) I liked the place (Original) Me Gusto el Lugar

Scott Delker

Paul English

Jessica Barton

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