Right on one corner of Escazú park is an unspectacular looking shopping centre called Centro Comercial Plaza Escazú. If you venture inside you will find a honey pot for literature lovers and curiosities collectionists: Driftwood Books, open Monday through Friday from 3p.m. to 5p.m..

The name “Driftwood Books” is very appropriate: just as varied as the objects washed upon the ocean’s shore, are the used books and surprising items that await you here.

Most books are in English language, but there are also sections of Spanish, French, Dutch and German literature. Genres range from novels, children’s books and other prose to scientific books, travel guides and reference works like dictionnaries and encyclopedias. Among the stacks of books, unexpected pieces of art, antiques, and a small collection of copper bells are hiding. Prices are lower than in many other used book stores in and around San José. You can also make good deals by trading your own unwanted books: give two of yours and take one of your choice with you.

Driftwood Books opened in 2009. Owner Larue Goldfinch, a retired school teacher, found there were not enough book stores to supply the western side of San José, and he himself had an extensive collection of books at home. When, on top of that, several friends and some school libraries declared their willingness to donate books to the project, the decision was easily made. In Larue’s words: “I have always liked used bookstores and being around the atmosphere of books and curiosities, so here I am.”

So, feel free to drop by and find whatever has been sitting in one of the shelves waiting just for you. If you are a critical buyer, have a seat and test-read as many books as you like. The only rule is: make yourself comfortable and enjoy.

Well into its third year of existence, Driftwood Books has already become an oasis for all sorts of visitors, as Larue says: “I have a good group of regular customers who love to read, to trade books, to look at my collection. I also have many drop-ins who want to see the brass bells I sell, the paintings and stuffed animals and odds and ends. Most of the customers are English-speaking residents here, though there are some tourists, student exchange groups, and local visitors.” … and, maybe, any day soon, you as well?

Contact Driftwood Books.
Phone: 2288-0142 and Email: [email protected]