The Best Second-hand Bookshops in Barcelona
Why Second-hand Bookshops?
Eco-Friendly Lifestyle
Without a doubt, our planet, Earth, is currently facing several environmental problems that could significantly impact our future generations. The threats include climate change, deforestation, pollution, biodiversity loss, oceanic dead zones, overpopulation, and over-fishing.
For far too long, many of us have taken planet Earth for granted; we enjoy living in an informative and material world, perhaps sometimes feeling overwhelmed by the piles of stuff we own. In fact, most things are either non-recyclable or have not been used for a period of time.
Time to Rethink Gifts
Preserving our environment is everyone’s responsibility. Every one of us should try to adapt to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. Improving environmental problems can begin from ourselves to our immediate surroundings. Use the power of your actions and voice to influence people around you; generate their awareness to become more eco-conscious.
Instead of shopping on Amazon or in large chains, support local or smaller businesses. Instead of purchasing new products, find a second-hand store. Not only are these items cost-effective; they are also a great sustainable alternative, which can help in reducing your carbon footprint. Most second-hand products are often in very good condition. Another great option is purchasing from an eco-friendly gift shop. The main advantage is that products are biodegradable, which means they will decompose without causing environmental problems.
1. Llibreria del Palau
Llibreria del Palau is a second-hand bookshop selling used boutique books and authentic souvenirs. The bookshop sits across from Palau de la Música Catalana—a UNESCO World Heritage Site designed in the Art Nouveau style by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner.
This second-hand bookshop is so narrow that the aroma of old books lingers in the air. You can get lost in piles of used books with this woody, smokey and earthy smell. In my case, I bought a children’s book in Catalan, and it came with a vintage bookmark as a gift.
Address: Carrer de Sant Pere Més Alt, 6, 08003 Barcelona
Phone: +34-932-680-980
2. Mercantic
Mercantic, situated in Sant Cugat, is definitely one of Barcelona’s most original places. The venues are filled with antiques, vintage pieces, handmade items, and decorations.
A particular highlight is the “el Siglo” second-hand bookshop, where visitors can see live concerts and choose from 150,000 antique books. Over 90% of the collections are either in Catalan or Spanish. It is undoubtedly a cool spot that can draw you into space.
Address: Av. de Rius i Taulet, 120, 08173 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona
phone: +34-936-744-950
3. Re-read Llibrería Lowcost
Re-read is another option for exploring used books in various languages. Re-read second-hand bookshops are located in several locations in Barcelona. All of them have a fresh interior design that gives these used books another charming look.
The prices are reasonable and books are usually in very good condition. They sell in bundle packages (€2 per book, €5 for 3, and €10 for 5). Re-read also takes credits for second-hand books. It is undoubtedly a sustainable book store that gives a used book another life.
Address: Carrer de la Diputació, 296, 08009 Barcelona
Phone: +34-931-383-534
4. Mercat de Sant Antoni Sunday Market
Mercat de Sant Antoni is a traditional market located in the district of Eixample, Barcelona. It is excellent for fresh food, vegetables, meat, seafood, and ready-to-go food.
The Sant Antoni market is a lesser-known market for most travelers compared to La Boqueria in Las Ramblas. However, if you are visiting Barcelona and would like to see a less “touristy” traditional market, this is your to-go option, suitable for both individuals and families.
The market opened in 1882, named after the architect Antonio Rovira I Trias. It was finally reopened in 2018, after one year of renovations that cost a whopping 80 million Euros.
The Sant Antoni market hosts a second-hand book market every Sunday; there are nearly 80 bookstalls with all types of old books, magazines, comics, postcards, and old films. It is a paradise for book lovers; one where you can get “hard-to-find” books.
Address: Carrer del Comte d’Urgell, 1, 08011 Barcelona
Schedule: Every Sunday from 8:30 to 14:30
Phone: +34-934-263-521
5. Hibernian Second-hand Bookshop: English Only!
Hibernian bookshop is a second-hand bookshop with the most extensive English book collection in Barcelona. The bookshop is located in the heart of Barcelona’s Gracia neighborhood near Casa Vicens by Antoni Gaudi.
Address: Carrer del Montseny, 17, 08012 Barcelona
Phone: +34-932-174-796
6. Libreria Anticuaria Studio
Libreria Anticuaria Studio, with over 60 years near the Universidad Central de Barcelona, is a temple of cultures and knowledge. The bookshop offers some classic selections dating back to the eighteenth century.
Address: Carrer Aribau 12 Establiment 1, 08011 Barcelona
Phone: +34-933-178-835
Online Bookstore
If going to a bookshop is challenging, or you are simply unsure what book to choose, why not browse via BetterWorldBooks?
Better World Books offers over eight million new and used book collections online. It is one of the largest online second-hand bookshops. The company’s mission is to balance social, economic, and environmental values to its stakeholders; it has a friendly customer service and a worldwide shipping service.
One of the most significant benefits of choosing used books is the idea of reducing environmental problems with less paper needing to be printed. It is also a cost-effective option for financial control. Support local or second-hand bookshops; create win-win-win situations among the sellers, the buyers, and the environment.
