Lemon Grove FOL Bookstore

The Lemon Grove FOL Bookstore is a beloved community treasure operated by the Friends of the Library, offering book lovers and bargain hunters a carefully curated selection of gently used books and media. Located at 3001 School Lane in Lemon Grove, California, this volunteer-run bookstore serves a dual purpose: providing affordable reading materials to the community while raising funds to support local library programs and services. The intimate shopping environment creates a welcoming atmosphere where you can browse at your leisure, discovering everything from bestselling novels to rare finds. What makes the Lemon Grove FOL Bookstore special is its direct connection to the San Diego County Library system and the dedication of volunteers who share a genuine passion for literacy and reading. Whether you're searching for children's books, fiction, non-fiction, or vintage titles, you'll find prices that make building your home library both accessible and enjoyable while supporting a worthy cause in the Lemon Grove community.

Store Information

3001 School Ln, Lemon Grove, CA 91945

Phone: +1 619-463-9819

Email: lemongrovelibrary@sdcounty.ca.gov

Website: https://www.sdcl.org/locations/23/

5★ average across 3 reviews on Google

Store Hours

  • Monday: 1-4PM
  • Tuesday: 1-4PM
  • Wednesday: 1-5PM
  • Thursday: 1-4PM
  • Friday: 10AM-12PM,1-4PM
  • Saturday: 10AM-4PM
  • Sunday: Closed

What They Sell

As a Friends of the Library bookstore, the Lemon Grove FOL Bookstore specializes in donated and gently used books across all genres and age levels. Shoppers can explore fiction and non-fiction titles, children's and young adult books, cookbooks, history, biography, and much more at prices that typically range from just a dollar or two to a few dollars for special editions. The inventory also includes DVDs, CDs, audiobooks, and magazines. Since stock comes from community donations, the selection constantly changes, meaning each visit offers new discoveries. You'll find both contemporary bestsellers and classic titles, making it perfect for casual readers, collectors, and anyone looking to stretch their book budget while supporting library programs.

The Neighborhood

Lemon Grove is a friendly, close-knit community in San Diego County, California, known for its small-town charm and the iconic Big Lemon landmark. Located on School Lane, the FOL Bookstore sits in a central area easily accessible from major thoroughfares like Broadway and State Route 94. The neighborhood offers a genuine local feel with family-friendly amenities, schools, and community spaces nearby. This convenient location makes it easy for residents throughout East County San Diego to stop by while running errands or exploring the area's local shops and services.

Parking

Parking at the Lemon Grove FOL Bookstore is convenient with on-site parking available at the School Lane location. The bookstore shares facilities with the Lemon Grove Library branch, providing accessible parking options including designated accessible spaces. Street parking along School Lane is also typically available. The easy parking access makes it simple to pop in for a quick browse or take your time exploring the shelves without worrying about meters or time restrictions.

Shopping Tips

  • Visit on Saturdays for the longest browsing window and to catch newly stocked inventory from the week's donations
  • Bring cash for the smoothest transaction, though payment options may vary
  • Check back frequently since the all-donation inventory means new books arrive regularly and popular titles move quickly
  • Ask volunteers about specific genres or authors you're seeking—their knowledge of the inventory can help you find hidden treasures
  • Consider donating your own gently used books while you shop to support the Friends of the Library mission and keep great reading material circulating in the community

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