Balin Books

Awesome book store with large children's book section as well as books on nature (local and global), science, data, cookbooks, sci-fi, graphic novels, fiction and more. I could spend my whole day AND paycheck here! Just so many great books and really well curated. Doesn't feel overwhelming but makes you want to pick the books off the shelf and dive in.

I’d shopped at Balin Books many times, even driving from Fitchburg, about 35 miles away, when I’m in Nashua. As a pastor, I value local businesses that support the community that supports them. Unfortunately, my experience with General Manager Michael Joachim was the opposite. Our church asked if they’d support a summer project collecting books for disadvantaged children (the nonprofit gives away over 20,000 each year). Mr. Joachim met with us but was skeptical and dismissive, suggesting we ask big-box stores instead. He said he’d check with his children’s book coordinator and follow up about donating sample copies. He never did. I reached out twice since and received no response. Even without their help, our small congregation collected nearly 700 books. Balin Books may call itself a community bookstore, but this experience showed a lack of genuine community spirit or partnership. I no longer shop there.

First time going there today and the store was really well organized! Not only that, but the staff members were all super nice and friendly! Definitely worth checking out

I would rate this 4.5/5 if I could. Balin is an excellent small bookstore with a wide selection on most genres of fiction. I've been impressed lately with the book clubs they've been running and hope to attend one at some point. The children's section has a bean bag seating area and there's a whole section of travel guides and atlases which tells me they understand their local audience. The only thing that would improve them is an offering of coffee/tea in store.