Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Source for Used & Rare Books in East Lansing
Since 1969, Curious Book Shop has been a cornerstone of East Lansing's literary community. What began as a basement operation has grown into a three-floor haven housing over 50,000 carefully curated books, magazines, and paper artifacts. Our expertise spans science fiction, mystery, children's literature, Michigan history, and sports memorabilia, with dedicated staff ensuring exceptional customer service. We host the annual Mid-Michigan Antiquarian Book & Paper Show, now in its 78th iteration, and maintain partnerships with local cultural institutions.Owner Ray Walsh, recipient of the East Lansing Crystal Award, contributes weekly book reviews to the Lansing State Journal while serving on the Downtown Management Board. Our physical store operates six days a week with extended evening hours, complemented by an active online presence and Etsy shop featuring unique printed materials.
Services
Used Books
Rare Books
Book Shows
Newsletter Subscription
Online Inventory
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- Established in 1969 with deep local literary expertise
- Three floors housing over 50,000 curated paper items
- Specialized collections in science fiction and Michigan history
- Hosts Michigan's longest-running antiquarian book show
- Owner serves on Downtown Management Board and writes for Lansing State Journal
Services
Used Books
Our extensive collection features literature across genres including philosophy, political science, and popular culture. Each item receives careful condition assessment before shelving. Staff provide personalized recommendations for collectors and casual readers alike.
Rare Books
Specialty includes 19th-21st century first editions and limited runs. We maintain climate-controlled storage for preservation. Expert authentication available for valuable finds from private collections.
Book Shows
Annual Mid-Michigan Antiquarian Book & Paper Show connects collectors with rare materials. Features author signings, publisher booths, and educational workshops. Held at Causeway Bay Hotel in October.
Newsletter
Monthly email updates cover new arrivals, store events, and literary news. Subscription list maintained without spam. Archives available online for past editions.
Online Inventory
Etsy shop offers curated selections of vintage magazines and unique paper artifacts. Features hard-to-find items like Civil War-era children's books and pulp fiction collections.
People
Ray Walsh
Owner
Founded Curious Book Shop in 1969 while studying at Michigan State University. Recipient of East Lansing's Crystal Award for community contributions. Writes weekly crime novel reviews for Lansing State Journal since 1987.
Questions
What are your regular store hours?
We're open Monday-Saturday 10 AM-8 PM and Sunday 12 PM-5 PM.
Do you sell rare books?
Yes, we specialize in rare books including first editions and limited runs.
Are there parking options nearby?
Metered street parking available. Parking garages accessible from Albert, Charles, and Division Streets with validation.
Do you host book-related events?
We organize the annual Mid-Michigan Antiquarian Book & Paper Show each October.
Can I find Michigan history books?
Yes, Michigan history is one of our core specialty collections.