Clinton Book Shop

We love this bookshop and Rob and Harvey. They have always been great to us. They quickly understand reading preferences and their breath and depth of the literary world enables them to make quick, spot-​on recommendations which never disappoint.
They host and support a variety of book and writing clubs with a different bent than the every day fare, which demonstrates their commitment to the community, erudition and social growth.
Regarding the comments of some of the other reviewers, take a moment and think about the industry and the kinds of entitlement they are likely confronted with on a daily basis. You may think that it comes with the territory, but it should not and I applaud them for raising the bar in terms of civility. Maybe it gets a bit frustrating at times, but hey, they are human. I have seen customers come in and scan a bar code — undoubtedly perusing the book in this wonderful independent shop only to order it online. Others treat it like a lending library. Really, people, get a clue. It’s kind of like stealing.
In my experience, the owners have been nothing but delightful. Then again, I don’t waltz in expecting exceptions to be made for me in terms of clearly stated rules that benefit all, no matter what the reason. I don’t test drive the merch only to order it online. I value the independent bookstore and the environment of Clinton Book Shop in particular. If these stores are taken for granted, they are destined to disappear

Just an amazing place. Rob and Harvey are knowledgable and passionate about books, awesome to chat with, and supporters of the small business. Shop Local!

This is a very nice, home town book store. I love going in here with my daughter. I would just have to say the workers could be just a tad more friendly. You expect a little more «niceness» from such a nice quaint town like Clinton. I will and do continue to go back, time after time. I do love it.

Wow. What a great find and super service. No, it isn’t a chain, so you get what you would think — unusual finds and personal service.

independent book store in my town… PASS. the other day, I was one the phone discussing sadly, FUNERAL arrangements for one of my patients when someone aggressively came up to me and told me «we have a no cell phone policy» as soon as i walked in the door. You know what? I used to have respect for this place but they lost me with that. yes, signs are «posted». but i am not going to say to the person i am on the phone with– «sorry i walked into a independent book shop, i have to get off the phone! wake discussions will HAVE TO WAIT».
I understand a business can make their own rules but approaching someone like me in that situation — that was tactless and rude. Who in their right mind does something like that? The man could not even wait until I got off the phone to explain the reasons of the «no cell policy». For heavens, I was discussing funeral arrangements. Would that person who worked there like to be told to essentially «get off the phone» when he was discussing the death of someone close to him? I don’t think so. Have some respect for your customers. I was going to buy books, but I’ll take my business elsewhere. At least I know not to make the mistake of giving them any of my money. Disgusting behavior.

Harvey and Rob, like most independent booksellers, do it for love, and it shows.
Familiar with every book in the building, these guys can get you right to the author and the title that’ll scratch your itch. Personalized service that you can only get in a place like Clinton Book Shop.
Awesome atmosphere for browsing too. Surprises on every shelf. Not quite the same at Between Books, but that’s a whole ‘nuther story.

Clinton is perfectly situated just off of I-​78 in between New York City and the Lehigh Valley, and it has an historic and fun downtown. It’s worth a stop whether you only have 20 minutes or a couple of hours.
Definitely see Harvey and Rob here! Sure, they don’t have big fluffy couches or a national coffee chain in this shop, but they have a great selection and provide lots of intelligent and practical recommendations.
They host book clubs and — most impressively — almost weekly author signings! You can meet NYT Bestselling authors and celebrities here as well as local New Jersey writers.
They don’t just order and sell books [although they make it really easy to order anything you want], they work directly with authors and publishers and connect them with the community.
Because I’m a chick I dig their Ladies’ Nights — food, wine, meeting female writers and hanging out with interesting people. I know the kids’ events also kick ass. Can I say that here? I just did.
Oh, and for coffee, there’s a great place about 3 doors down. Get your book, a cup of coffee and sit by the river.

I used to work here! And I loved it. It never reminded me of «work». This independent book store is about the size of a closet but it has a great selection, especially of childrens books. Also, if they don’t have it, they will order it for you and you’ll have it in a couple of days – whether it is completely out of stock at warehouses or not. Personable staff, treats you more like a friend than just another customer.