Talk Story with an Advertiser: Big Island BookBuyers

With books stacked from ceiling to floor, Big Island BookBuyers is a refreshing sight for anyone who still loves the physically printed word. Whether you’re looking for a guide to the island or a literary adventure to another world, there is something for everyone.

Owner and manager Mary Bicknell enjoys sharing her love of books with her customers, many of whom have expressed their surprise and appreciation at finding an “old-fashioned bookstore.” She opened the Pāhoa location in 2008, shortly after moving to Hawai‘i Island with her husband and realizing there was a need for books on the island. After hearing that Pāhoa’s little library had one of the largest circulations in the state she chose to stay close to home with the original location.

Mary learned a good deal about the used book business from friends in California and began accumulating books to open a store. After a successful beginning in Pāhoa, they decided to open a second location in downtown Hilo last October. Both locations are open seven days a week, and Mary says, “I am looking forward to more people realizing that there are some businesses open and worth checking out on a Sunday afternoon.”

Big Island BookBuyers hopes to instill the love of books in young readers. They recently completed a successful children’s summer reading program and are now planning an ongoing reading program to be held in the Hilo store where there is a space designated specifically for children.

Used bookstores like Big Island BookBuyers are great options for book lovers on a budget. The buy-and-sell aspect of the store leads to an inventory as diverse as the people who walk through the door. Prices are very affordable—usually 60% off the original cover price. They also have a wide selection of movies and discounted calendars. With affordable books of every genre and a friendly atmosphere to host them all, it is unlikely any bookworm will leave empty-handed.

Big Island BookBuyers
Pāhoa:
15-2901 Pahoa Village Road, 808.854.6681
Mon-Sat: 10am–6pm, Sun: 11am–5pm
Hilo:
14 Waianuenue Ave., 808.315.5335
Mon-Sat: 10am–5pm, Sun: 11am–4pm
BigIslandBookBuyers.com