Local second-hand bookstore with cozy charm has a book for every reader 

Natalie Dean | Entertainment Editor

To get out of the house and escape the cloudy weather that’s been filling the skies, head on over to Second Chance Books, a local second-hand book store that’s been in downtown Independence since 2005. They’ve accumulated an impressively large amount of books through the years, ranging across a dozen and a half genres available at various affordable prices. It’s not uncommon to end up leaving with a book or three, especially since they often have deals on oversized books. 

In the times I’ve visited the store in the past, I enjoyed exploring the packed bookshelves and getting some really unique finds. Plus, taking a few minutes to check out stores in the area can occasionally provide a much-needed distraction from the busy and long days — which I’m sure a lot of people are trying to balance right now as we head to the end of the year.

Although the pandemic has been a difficult time for many communities and local businesses, there are plenty of new and returning customers who come in for some book recommendations or to just roam the cozy stacked shelves — all while safely social distancing and soaking in the strangely comforting smell that only books have. 

Second Chance Books accepts book donations during their business hours, which are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday to Saturday, and 12 to 4 p.m. on Sundays. They are located at 307 S. Main St. in Independence, and if there are any questions for their team, they can be reached at (503) 838-5279 or check out their website. 

Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu