This Completely Free Bookstore in Connecticut Is a Booklover’s Dream

I love to read but I am very thrifty when it comes to obtaining new books. With few exceptions, I’m a "read it and pass it on" type of gal rather than an avid book collector. I can’t justify spending hundreds of dollars a year on books I will only read once. When it comes to literary works, I like to shop used. Rehoming or borrowing books saves money and keeps them out of landfills. I absolutely love a good used bookstore. And what could be better than one that is completely free? You can find such a place in New Haven, Connecticut. I am planning a trip to the area soon and can’t wait to grab some good reads at a quirky little spot called Volume Two: A Never Ending Books Collective.  

You will be hard-pressed to find another bookstore quite like this one. Volume Two is a true hidden gem. The store is a great place to browse for books and doubles as a music venue, event area, and gathering space. Many people come to enjoy the fun, artsy atmosphere.

Step inside and you will find everything from cookbooks to the classics. The store also carries DVDs, records, and VHS tapes. You never know what you will come across when you visit. Volume Two doesn’t charge for books but does accept monetary donations from customers. They also take donations through their website. An upcoming fundraiser is in the works to help out with costs.

The story of Volume Two is an interesting one. The bookstore was originally called Never Ending Books and it had been a fixture in the area for decades until almost falling victim to the pandemic. A few years back, a group of loyal followers rallied to save it. They formed a collective, raised money, and reopened the store, naming it Volume Two: A Never Ending Books Collective. They have continued to operate it as a free bookstore.

The collective is open for limited hours in the evenings. After you browse for books, you can stay to watch a band, participate in open mic night, or take part in a local group meet-up. Whatever your reason for visiting, you will definitely want to return.

Have you perused the shelves at Volume Two? What books did you bring home? More information about this local treasure can be found on the Volume Two: A Never Ending Books Collective website and the Volume Two: A Never Ending Books Collective Facebook page. For more great books in Connecticut, visit the Traveler Restaurant in Union or take this literary road trip. And if you are looking for something to pass the time while waiting for Volume Two to open, try out this fun Self-Guided Yale Scavenger Hunt.