Barbara's Bookstore - Office

This is a word-of-mouth kind of place, a treasure trove that feels like a local secret—if you’re exploring Santa Fe by walking or even driving around you won’t stumble upon it. Luckily for me I sat next to someone cool on the Santa Fe plane with the good tips, tho you will see this place on the visitors’ walking map if you know to look. This is my ideal Indie bookstore, chock full of esoteria yet solid with offerings for the hardened philosophical materialist (a nice balance, in other words, and i was gobsmacked to see a book displayed of a somewhat obscure scholar i had Just Heard Speak at one of my postmaterialist orgs—the Ark’s book wrangler must be pretty dialed in, woof); a chair by a window to peruse too many good titles to choose from; a labyrinth of goodies and gifting items to explore (that even with good intentions you’ll want to keep for yourself), arty ceramics, boho clothing, scarves, stickers, crystals, jewelry, candles, meditation pillows, puzzles (o my heart); impossible to lay it all out here and that would take from your fun. I have been looking for a dodecahedron for a long time and it found me here.

Beautiful shop with so much to offer BUT the vibe was entirely off which made me not want to ask about jewelry pieces or touch their tarot section. For a shop with spiritual and metaphysical specialty items, the customer service was non-existent. There was no offer of advice or help, if they even looked at us I'd be surprised. I saw the other reviews and wondered if their chilly customer service was because we aren't locals/don't frequent the shop; signs seem to point to "yes".

I had a lovely experience at this store. I appreciate how they label all of the different crystals that they have. Hug selection of books covering everything you could think of. Books on history of various religious and spiritual beliefs: Wicca, Druidism, Eastern Religions, Christianity, Paganism, Crystals, Rituals, Spells, etc. They even have a collection of popular Fiction and Non Fiction books. Lots of gifts. Beautiful jewelry. Everything I could ever want in a metaphysical store. I can't believe I've been to Santa Fe so many times and never knew this gem existed. I will definitely be coming back.

I have been going to the "Ark" for about 20 years and today was the first time I felt profiled and watched. It is my sisters birthday and we wanted to explore as there is so much to look at. I wanted to see if she wanted some oracle cards. I heard the owner say from afar to "watch those two women" and followed us around the store. This was very disheartning and unnecessary. I was raised to value honesty and the law. I get that these are hard times and crime is more prevelant, however, this was unecessary. As a result of this experience, I will not be giving them my buisness moving forward. I will be returning the items I purchased. The Ark lost two faithful customers who now have heavy hearts. You will also lose business from faithful friends and family!