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Borders - CLOSED
Categories: Shopping Books, Mags, Music and Video Bookstores Shopping Books, Mags, Music and Video Music & DVDs Bookstores, Music & DVDs [Edit]
2080 California AveSeaside, CA 93955
(831) 899-6643
- Price Range:
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$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
25 reviews for Borders
Review Highlights
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"...i have to hit up seattle's best coffee for a hazelnut latte." In 4 reviews -
"...fun nights here on our way home from Carmel or Monterey." In 5 reviews -
"...to find an author or a DVD that you'd really like to watch." In 4 reviews
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25 reviews in English
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Review from Jessamyn W.
Monterey, CA
8/26/2011
It's the only big bookstore in the Monterey area and it's going to close. So sad... Where are we going to get our books now? http://Amazon.com? It's a shame because I kind of like going into a bookstore and flipping through books.
Borders, you will most certainly be missed. -
Review from Harry K.
Monterey, CA
8/5/2011
The only large bookstore in the area is going to close, because the company is going out of business.
That's too bad, for us and for them.
Hie thee thither--whilst thou canst.Listed in: Books by the Bay
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Review from Amanda W.
Monterey, CA
9/11/2011
It's to bad that there are only 6 days left until this store is permanently closed. I really enjoyed the borders experience. I went in today and purchased a lot of book, great prices at the moment. If your looking to find a few books at an awesome price be sure to stop in before they close their doors permanently. Most books are 70% off and there are a few selections that are 90% off. Their inventory is quickly dwindling to non existent.
Atleast now the locally owned book stores will get more business. -
Review from R H.
Walnut Creek, CA
4/28/2011
As I walked up to the cashiers, a female cashier was finishing with her customer and a guy was in the middle of a prolonged sale. She walked away to chat with a friend.
It took several minutes for the guy to finish his sale, and then very quickly deal with my ONE MAGAZINE, during which time the woman continued chatting with her friend at the end of the counter.
As they close stores, I don't think Borders can afford crap customer service right now. This was crap customer service. I heartily recommend ANY other bookstore. -
Review from Clyde R.
Carmel by the Sea, CA
6/13/2009
A Day in My Life. Theme - Getting over Jet Lag, Part 7
Returning home from Il Fornaio last night, I wasn't feeling tired so I drove to Sand City to Borders.
I spend a lot of time in bookstores, especially in this one. In comparison to other Borders, it's not always clean or well-managed. But the employees are nice and helpful. It's a run-of-the-mill Borders with everything you'd expect to find in one: coffee, bargain books, well-stocked shelves, children's section, CD's, DVD's, music night, book clubs, and so on.
The recession has hit hard and seems to have affected this store. They are understaffed. They're not doing book signings, readings, and discussion groups with the frequency of last year. Those working the cashiers are hawking books. There are sales and discount promotions going on every week.
I spent time in the literature section and looked at the following books
Native Speaker Chang Rae Lee
The Brass Verdict Michael Connelly
Letters from a Stoic Seneca
I end up buying Native Speaker and headed home to write some Yelp reviews. I read my new book in bed before turning out the lights at 12:30 PM. It looked like a promising read. If you've read my recent reviews, my friends and fellow Yelpers, thanks for sharing my day with me. -
Review from Amber K.
San Diego, CA
8/18/2008
I love borders simply because I could spend a full day here. I'd get my coffee, then browse books for a few hours before settling on one I'd like to read. I'd find a comfy spot hidden within the books, and I'd get lost in my new book. There are so many great gift ideas, and so many bargains! I found a Dictionary of Theories on the sale rack for $5. Do you know how much knowledge I purchased for just 5 bucks???
The reason for the review of this Borders, in particular, is how helpful the employees were! I asked the people at the customer service desk for a recommendation on an author of historical romance novels, and I received a multitude of responses. One gentleman walked me over to point out a few specifically, and he even stayed to help me look some novels up on the computer after he was off the clock (and trust me he wasn't hitting on me - he was just interested in helping). I received great service when ordering the coffee also, but that's a whole different review! All around great service at this Borders! -
Review from Dish M.
Middletown, RI
9/19/2008
One star, according to Yelp means "me thinks not."
And that is the best way to put it. You shouldn't go out of your way to go to this Borders, its very trashy.
I studied here a few times during the day since its on my way to work.
Everything was fine, until last time I went there and this random guy sat down next to me in the cafe. Sometimes random conversations with people can be good, for instance, if they've showered recently... that would be better than my situation. That might be good... however, this guy started telling me all about himself and wanted to know everything about me and my boyfriend... And do I like a creepy man asking a lot of questions while I'm trying to study? No, no I don't, thank you.
The problem with me is I can't really tell someone to leave me alone, so got I up and left.
I don't really see any good reason in going back either. But I do really like that they encourage and welcome you to read books and magazines without paying for them... so I'll add on the second star for that.
If your a girl, bring a friend to watch over you... unless you want to snag yourself a creeper. Hey, even if you're a guy... bring someone... don't go here alone... even in the daytime. -
Review from Kyle W.
10/5/2010
First off I can't compliment Borders enough. It's one of the few places where it's very easy to spend a lazy Sunday Afternoon browsing around trying to find an author or a DVD that you'd really like to watch. Borders is one of those places. And this place is no exception. As has been said it offers the convenience of a Seattle's Best Coffee store so you can sip a drink while browsing though anytime I'm in here it's always full!.
There are a couple of things that grate just a little. The first being the lack of seating in around the store. Anytime I pick up a sports book with a Coffee drink in my hand it would be much more comfortable finding a chair to sit in rather then the floor!. After all isn't what these places are partially designed for?
Secondly I know this applies to all Borders but the prices of DVD's have become too astronomical and paying up to 30$ for a new release isn't worth it. I find it interesting that in a time where Borders have supposedly shrinked their CD and DVD selections that prices have remained the same. -
Review from Leigh V.
Salinas, CA
7/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
So sad that Borders is going out of business. I love this store... I can come in and spend my whole day here just perusing books... and they usually have great deals on books I can always find something I'd want to buy.
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Review from Amy O.
9/15/2007
There is a really annoying guy that likes to talk on the microphone there during closing. Hey you...guy that thinks you are funny...shut up...it's a book store. Let us browse. Hopefully somoene caught onto him... (as it was 6 months ago when I lived there)...but wait...every time I am in the cooking section, the staff hangs out at the customer service counter and chats about their personal lives extremely loud. This store needs some manners.
Store is 4-stars simply on the following, but loses one star for having staff that is simply not amusing. Small location, hardly any selection, and magazine section is small. This store needs some help, is it because there is hardly any competition in the area?
Also, needs longer hours. There's nothing to do besides drink in Monterey at night, give some people some options! Every time I've been there during closing, there's quite a few people shopping. The stores in San Jose are open till 11 at least.
The PROS: Lots of places to read, and there are available chairs! As for the Seattles Best (aka: Starbucks, you know that right?), really friendly baristas (and that's been a consistent experience). And the parking is always good as it has a corner location and doesn't have to share with any other stores besides Ross. Also, the card and crafty section is pretty good size too. -
Review from Erin O.
1/11/2009
hmmm...I seem to be alone in my love of this store. My daughter and I have spent several fun nights here on our way home from Carmel or Monterey. What we've liked?
--Great selection of books
--Lots of CD listening stations so my daughter can scan CDs and listen to tunes to her heart's content
--More cushy chairs throughout the store than I've seen in any other bookstore in San Jose (Borders or Barnes & Nobles)
--A great coffee bar (Seattle's Best) that makes a killer cafe mocha treat for me and hot cocoa for my daughter
--Plenty of places to sit and hunker down with a book and a drink
--Late hours (we hung out here past 10pm on several occasions)
--Decent bathrooms
--Though I've bought several cookbooks here (I collect them), you can spend hours here and not have to spend a dime
A nice stop after a day on the coast and dinner in Pacific Grove. -
Review from L.C. C.
Marina, CA
7/23/2009
i LOVE this borders. It has everything you possibly need.
The staff is wonderful and always help you find something you're looking for.
I also love their paperchase selection for stationary and photo albums and cute little knick knacks.
And everytime i go i have to hit up seattle's best coffee for a hazelnut latte. i usually will spend an entire afternoon here. -
Review from Jaime D.
11/21/2010 1 Check-in Here
meehhhh this place has O.K sales, i never like paying full price for books because i can find it so much cheaper on amazon.
being that this is one of the few book stores in monterey county (sad i know) i guess its ok.
the coffee shop is good tho and its a great place to read a good book. -
Review from Shiho F.
Carmel by the Sea, CA
Updated - 12/4/2008
Ok. I really should not be allowed at this store. Went in to find one book: The China Study (about nutrition). Came out $70 poorer. Bought cheap cookbooks that I'm never going to use. I just liked to look at pictures for a sec., close the book and then recreate them in my own way.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/30/2008
I think I'm the only moron that leaves buying half of the stuff on the front sales racks. Cookbooks… Read more »
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Review from Vicky T.
Updated - 9/15/2009 1 Check-in Here
thank you for putting up with my brother and his antics.. yes he is 18.. yes he is going to college.. he is just enjoying his last few days with family and SO before heading out of the central coast. on another note.. they did have all of the AP books I needed for my high school students.
Woot!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/26/2009
Clean, friendly and one of the three starbucks affiliated places in the lot (Seattle's Best. an… Read more »
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Review from matthew O.
Monterey, CA
1/6/2010
i love all borders! I usually come here on my free time just to sit, drink some tea and read and relax. The magazine selection is really good. They always have the latest hair magazines and European fashion mags. Was really happy to see they had Perez Hilton's True Bloggywood Stories looking everywhere for it). Anyway I wish they had more cushioned couches, I usually find myself sitting on the floor
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Review from Guy U.
Los Angeles, CA
3/24/2009
This version of borders has some serious issues. First of all, the cafe area. I would love to be politically correct, but the reality is, this area attracts a fair number of homeless, panhandlers, mentally unstable and generally creepy individuals consistently.
The bathroom is pretty nasty, with stuff on the floor, which is unmentionable.
Also, you might want to think twice about ordering any of the pastries. I saw flies flitting about happily in the 'covered' pastries section.
Cleanliness, people, cleanliness.
But, the stock of books is unmatched on the peninsula. What are you gonna do? -
Review from Ammy D.
Marina, CA
8/28/2007
Being one of the very few bookstores in the area, you'd think this Borders would garner at least a decent review.
I used to work here, so I might be a little biased against, but let me be fair in this review and ignore any work related problems with the place...
-Prices on books are decent - however i wouldn't suggest buying music or movies here. the prices are just ridiculous.
-The bathroom is the single nastiest bathroom I've been to in the area. (wait, I take that back - when the Kmart closed (where the home depot currently is) the last few days they had a huge huge huge sale - and apparently simply stopped cleaning the bathroom - i walked in, and ran out, it was HORRIFYING) - anyway. the bathroom here always reaks, and is more often than not, rather disgusting - and i'm talking about the women's room.
-The staff is alright, most of them are quite nice, and accommodating. some of them aren't so great, but they're paid nearly minimum wage and under appreciated - as i said, i can sympathize
-The cafe has always been my favorite part of the store (i'll admit, i was a barrista there..) because you are allowed to take books over and read them. play on the computer, sip your coffee, and relax.
-i really do like that there are reading corners throughout the store.
i would give 4 stars, but the bathroom really kills it. 2. -
Review from Jackie N.
Denver, CO
9/14/2008
I love coming here during my free time, but there's a secret to the "system". Go in expecting not to buy anything but a coffee drink and maybe a snack, then go grab some magazine's, a book, etc and kick back at one of the tables. Whatever you don't finish reading write down or try to remember where you left off and save it for next time. This way I'm always looking forward to finishing a good book or magazine and I get to enjoy my iced green tea and carb-loaded snack. The only catch is that there is a duet that comes to play there occasionally and it literally is painful to listen to, let alone try to read with this "music" in the background. Also, sign up for a border's rewards card- they're free and you get good coupons sent to your email.
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Review from Josh D.
Monterey, CA
4/14/2008
God, I hate Border's in general, but choices are limited on the Peninsula. If I really need something and either can't or don't feel like haulin up to Santa Cruz, I settle for Border's.The problem isn't variety. You can find everything. Whatever they don't have, they'll order. But, they are pricey for a chain, and for the same prices, or even less is some cases, I'd rather spend my money in an indie where people who work there really know what they're talking about.
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Review from Lisa P.
Los Angeles, CA
9/9/2007
been here a few times. It came in handy when I would travel with my ex when he was playing with different groups.
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Review from jonathan f.
Seaside, CA
4/30/2011
This borders is awesome, it has changed recently. well if you go and want to look at a few books it should take your mind away to a new hemisphere. so I think this borders is an awesome place to be.
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Review from barkingdog s.
Berkeley, CA
1/2/2010
I really like this Borders. Maybe I've been lucky but I generally find a good book or two marked down to too-good-a price not to buy. Dangerous! Bought a couple of 2010 calendars that were not to be found at other Border stores. Also a great place to pick up the Monterey Weekly and the Carmel Pine Cone. Friendly staff. Convenient to other nearby stores, like Ross, Target or Jamba Juice, just across the lot.
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Review from Russell S.
Carmel, CA
3/15/2008
a basic borders store with a laissez attitude, i usually find what i need there and they are very good about ordering when something i want isn't in stock. the cafe area is usually kind of gross with used napkins, crumbs, and little spills of various beverages.
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Review from Chris F.
Pacific Grove, CA
1/23/2010
This is not the best Borders I've ever been to. In fact, this store is a shadow of what it used to be. They've cut down their inventory of books and increased a lot of the other stuff--paper products, dvds, etc. I'm sure this is a result of the recession and the strong competition from online booksellers. Still, this store has one of the biggest selections around, and if you want to go somewhere and browse, and hold books in your hand instead of reading snippets of them online, this store is the place to go. One thing that they do that drives me crazy is that they put hardbacks on the shelves when paperbacks are available, and sometimes they put older editions of texts on the shelves. Not sure if they are aware of this, but, let the buyer beware! Stil, I've spent a fortune here because I love books! And this is a pretty good bookstore. Remember what Steinbeck said. Books are your best friends: they inform you, they entertain you, and they don't talk back.
