Charlotte Elliott and The Bookstore Next Door

So Many floors of vintage finds! Books, clothes, housewares… and when you think you’ve seen it all there’s another mini flight of stairs to another level. You have to be patient and soft a bit, but if you love hats don’t miss the lowest level- there’s even a dressing room to try things on

I had high hopes for this place as someone who has been to bookstores in 4 countries and many states in the US but it was extremely overpriced. Unfortunately I'd recommend skipping this one if you're in Baltimore. I have worked in museums and libraries and have a good eye for rare, vintage, and first editions. I know what is an acceptable price and what is too much. Not everything old is worth a fortune (a hard lesson to learn if you're a bookstore owner, I'm sure). I was interested in a few math textbooks from the 1960s but they were charging $30+ for each. Even an Arabic translation of a niche German philosophical novel was nearly $40. You can tell a lot of the books have been there for a long time because they are dusty and there are books haphazardly scattered on the ground. It's sad because even if someone does express interest, they are priced out of buying. It's clear they don't really want to sell the things they have. The owner seemed pretty impatient that I would even ask about a book or to clarify the prices shown.

Mr Fred is awesome. Super inviting with his attitude. I could go back and spend hours there either talking to Fred or looking around. One day i hope i have a friend like mr Fred. Thank you so much for the little time you gave us. Good luck and all the best. A LOT OF BOOKS. You can find everything here. Definitely a must see if you are in to antiques and books if you are in Baltimore.

This bookstore, in addition to having a whole section of rare first editions, also has a fine collection of hardcovers to satisfy even the most finicky of book lovers. Inside this amazing store one will also find an excellent collection of antiques. The owner was simply wonderful in helping and answering questions!

Such a wonderful find on W 36th Street!nnChana, Fred and Charlotte are a delight to speak with and have a wonderful eye for all of the items in their shop!nnMy personal favourite is the jewellery section, which Chana looks after, and I found a gorgeous silver bracelet to take back with me as a memento of visiting Baltimore!nn(I had to refrain from buying up loads of books in the bookshop as I wouldn’t be able to lug them in my suitcase but I can confirm they have a lovely variety!)nnDefinitely not a store to be missed and I would recommend this store for history aficionados and fashion lovers!nnThank you for making the buying experience a fun one!nnBest wishes,nEmma