Symposia Community Bookstore is a book store in Hoboken, NJ. Open: Mon–Sun 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Phone: (201) 963-0909. Average rating is 4.8 stars from 119 reviews. Website: http://symposia.us/.
Symposia Community Bookstore
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Exterior view of Symposia Community Bookstore with outdoor seating.
4.8 119 reviews Today 12:00 – 5:00 PM

Symposia Community Bookstore: Ideas, Books, and Belonging

A volunteer-run bookstore in Hoboken where every purchase funds local programs and every visit connects neighbors.

About Us

Symposia operates from a compact storefront at 510 Washington Street. Volunteers staff the desk and maintain the shelves. The inventory includes new releases, used hardcovers, and children’s picture books priced from one dollar to twenty. A small stage in the back corner holds weekly puppet performances. Children receive one free book after each show. Birthday parties book the space for two-hour blocks. Families bring cake and guests while volunteers manage the puppet stage and checkout. Profits from every sale support local literacy initiatives and community events. The store closes at 6 p.m. most days and reopens at 10 a.m. the next morning.

What We Offer

New and used books priced individually. Weekly puppet shows at $5 admission. Birthday party rentals include two-hour space use and one free book per child. Volunteer-led book matching for specific titles or reading levels. Local author readings scheduled monthly. Community bulletin board posting for neighborhood events. All proceeds directed to Hoboken literacy programs.

Why Choose Us

119 reviews average 4.8 stars on customer experience and selection.
Every book sold returns profit directly to Hoboken community programs.
Puppet shows run weekly with free book included for each attending child.
Volunteers locate out-of-print titles within ten minutes of closing.
Birthday party packages accommodate up to twenty children with dedicated staging.
Compact layout allows quick browsing yet holds over two thousand titles.

Gallery

Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

What Our Customers Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear from our satisfied customers

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 months ago
"We recently celebrated our kids’ birthdays at Symposia book store in Hoboken, and it was an absolute delight! The venue was cozy, inviting, and perfect for children. The staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating, making the entire event smooth and stress-free. The kids had a blast with the activities and the book-themed entertainment. We also loved how easy it was to customize the party to fit our kids’ interests. Overall, it was a fantastic experience, and we highly recommend Symposia book store for any children’s celebration!"
— Guy Saltoun
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
7 months ago
"The place is small but super nice, especially the volunteers. I got there 10 min before closing and still the volunteer at the desk helped me a lot to try to find the book I was looking for. She tried her best and with great attitude! There are plenty of books inside and outside. Super recommended!"
— Andrea Pinto
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
7 months ago
"Love this place. Great books at good prices, with profits going to the community. If you have kids, they need to see the puppet shows. Theres a charge for the show, but kids get a free book at their first show. So fun being in the shop while the show is on."
— J. Park
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4 years ago
"A charming little book store on the main drag in Hoboken, this shop has something for everyone. A nice mix of newer titles as well as unique and older books. Be sure to check out the bargain tables outside! If you're in the area, stop in and say hi, and support local businesses, especially this lovely independent book seller!!"
— Lisa Bellak
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
11 months ago
"Symposia is a very cute bookstore to volunteer! I've been volunteering there for 3 years now and the staff and Carmen are great to work with! I enjoy arranging the bookshelves and fixing puppet supplies. I also love the range of books they have (from nonfiction, fiction, YA, history, etc.) and for a really great deal! I would also check out their website for their online store to see if there are other books that are not in the store. Their puppet shows are also great for kids!"
— Jamielyn Juan

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the current store hours?

Symposia opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m. daily except selected holidays posted on the front window.

How much does a puppet show cost?

Admission is five dollars per person. Every child receives one free book at the end of the performance.

Can I book the space for a birthday party?

Two-hour birthday rentals are available. Call or visit to reserve the date and confirm capacity for up to twenty children.

Do you accept book donations?

Gently used books in good condition are accepted during regular hours. Volunteers evaluate each title on site.

Are prices listed on the books?

Each book carries a clear price sticker. New releases start at twelve dollars. Used paperbacks begin at one dollar.

Hours of Operation

Open Now · Closes at 5:00 PM
Monday 12:00 – 5:00 PM
Tuesday 12:00 – 5:00 PM
Wednesday Today 12:00 – 5:00 PM
Thursday 12:00 – 5:00 PM
Friday 12:00 – 5:00 PM
Saturday 12:00 – 5:00 PM
Sunday 12:00 – 5:00 PM

Get In Touch

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