Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Independent Bookstore in San Francisco
Russian Hill Bookstore has been a cherished part of San Francisco's literary landscape since 1974. Originally established as Sunset Bookstore in the Sunset District, we have evolved into a vibrant neighborhood hub while maintaining our commitment to bookselling excellence. Our current location on upper Polk Street in the Russian Hill neighborhood offers a carefully curated selection of new and used books, complemented by unique gifts, children's toys, and board games. Recognized as a San Francisco Legacy Business, we take pride in preserving the city's cultural heritage through our dedication to independent bookselling. As a certified Green Business, we implement eco-friendly practices to minimize our environmental impact while serving our community.Our knowledgeable staff brings decades of collective experience in book curation and customer service, ensuring every visitor finds something special. Open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM, we've become a destination for locals and visitors alike seeking literary treasures and personalized recommendations. Our commitment to quality extends to our rigorous book evaluation process and flexible payment options for sellers. Whether you're searching for rare editions, contemporary bestsellers, or distinctive gifts, our store provides a welcoming environment for book lovers of all ages. Through our online partnerships with ABEbooks, Amazon, and Biblio, we extend our reach while maintaining our local character.
Services
Book Sales
Book Buying
Trade Credit
House Call Purchases
Online Sales
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of bookselling expertise in San Francisco
- Certified Green Business with sustainable retail practices
- Extensive selection of curated new and used books
- Flexible payment options including trade credit
- Knowledgeable staff providing personalized recommendations
Associations and certifications
- San Francisco Legacy Business Registry
- California Green Business Network
Services
Book Sales
We offer extensive selections of new and used books across multiple genres including art, history, philosophy, and science. Our inventory combines contemporary titles with rare and unusual editions. Customers benefit from personalized recommendations and a welcoming atmosphere that makes book discovery enjoyable.
Book Buying
We purchase second-hand books, comics, and vinyl records in good condition. Our buying hours accommodate walk-ins while house call options are available for large collections. Sellers receive competitive offers with flexible payment options including immediate cash or enhanced trade credit for used book purchases.
Trade Credit
Our trade credit program provides 50% higher value than cash offers for book sales. Credits never expire and can be applied toward any used book purchase. This option benefits customers seeking long-term value from their book collections while supporting our store's sustainability initiatives.
House Call Purchases
We offer in-home evaluations for large book collections. Our experts visit clients' homes to assess libraries at their convenience. Payment for these appointments comes via check, ensuring fair compensation for valuable collections while maintaining accessibility for estate sales and downsizing needs.
Online Sales
Our online storefronts on ABEbooks, Amazon, and Biblio extend our inventory globally. Customers worldwide access our curated selections while maintaining the same quality standards as our physical store. This digital presence preserves our local character while expanding our reach to international book enthusiasts.
People
Ben Bellouin
Co-Owner
Ben Bellouin co-owns Russian Hill Bookstore, bringing decades of bookselling expertise to San Francisco's literary community. His dedication to preserving rare editions and curating quality inventory maintains the store's reputation as a cultural landmark.
Jess Tsang
Co-Owner
Jess Tsang co-owns Russian Hill Bookstore, combining business acumen with a passion for literature. Her leadership ensures the store's continued success as both a neighborhood staple and destination for book collectors seeking unique editions and personalized service.
Questions
What types of books do you sell?
We offer new and used books across art, history, philosophy, science, metaphysics, and genre fiction. Our inventory includes general interest titles alongside rare and unusual editions.
Do you buy books from private collections?
Yes, we purchase second-hand books, comics, and vinyl records in good condition. Large collections qualify for in-home evaluations with payment via check.
What are your store hours?
We're open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM, closed New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Regular hours apply to all other days including holidays not specifically listed.
What payment methods do you accept?
In-store purchases accept cash or trade credit. House call book purchases pay via check. Trade credit offers 50% higher value than cash but applies only to used book purchases.
Do you sell books online?
Yes, our online inventory appears on ABEbooks, Amazon, and Biblio platforms. These storefronts feature the same curated selections available at our Polk Street location.
