Carlson & Turner Antiquarian

I was visiting Portland from Alabama and stopped in here one day. My expectations were exceeded when I stepped inside. I love antique books and to go into an antique only bookshop for the first time was a great experience. Although there wasn’t a great deal of Christian books, which is what I came looking for, I did manage to find a couple I couldn’t leave without. The American history and presidential section was where I spent most of my time but I could’ve stayed in there all day looking around. Prices were extremely fair, actually lower than I expected. The 4 books I bought cost $50 total, and the 1881 New Testament was $30 of it. The lady running the store was very kind and helpful. I can’t recommend this place enough. It would be a dream to have a place like this in North Alabama. Maybe I’ll get to go back someday.

Have you ever walked into a shop and felt an immediate sense of delight? This shop was clean, stacked with interesting inventory, smelled fresh and not musty (speaks to great care of materials and in selection). Staff made me feel welcome immediately and even gave me the card of another nearby shop when we found that they didn’t have my requested item in their inventory. If old books are your thing, put this place on your “must visit” list for whenever your next in Portland

This is the best bookstore I have ever been to! If you love old books, this is the store for you! They have so many absolutely gorgeous books. The customer service was incredible and I will definitely be coming back next time I am in Portland!

We stopped in because we enjoy looking for antique books, my husband especially. This was by far the best antique book store we have been in, the collection is amazing. They also offer book binding services. We will definitely be back! Side note-masks were not required.

Great selection of books and well curated. Lots of gems to be discovered across many different interests. Friendly owner and prices are also very reasonable

Such a cute shop. It's like stepping back in time! Great place to check out if you are in Portland

Just what we were looking for. Excellent selection of unusual books, organized very neatly. Many beautiful first editions as well. Woman behind the counter (the owner?) was so helpful and nice. Just loved it and recommend. Wonderful Western section.

Nice book store with vintage finds scattered throughout the shelves. Super friendly owners.

Such a gem. We just moved here and bought an old 1700s house, and wanted to fill some built-in bookcases with old books. I don't think a better place exists for that because this bookstore not only has LOTS of different types and styles of old books for this specific purpose, but it seems to be their specialty. The woman working was awesome and showed me 4-5 different types of antique "shelf fillers" at varying price points throughout the store, and I plan on returning with my car to clear a couple shelves. Would definitely recommend C&T's for my need, as well as for anyone who loves old books in general, because this place has an unreal selection.

This bookstore is a hidden Portland gem. Absolutely phenomenal. The owners are extremely pleasant. Most of their books are old and are well curated, though the atmosphere is relaxed and one feels free to browse. There's a rolling book ladder that's great fun to climb. There is also a small selection of antiques and ephemera- postcards and photos. If you love bookstores and like mom & pop businesses this is the place for you!

Always worth stopping in! Great people and very knowledgeable and hospitable.

I had an enjoyable time here looking at some wonderful books. They have a variety of books from paperbacks to leather bound to legitimate first edition antiques. The books also are over a variety of subjects, including a number in French and Chinese but not Spanish to my knowledge.
I bought a hard cover signed copy of Richard e bryd's novel Alone and a book of Scottish poems for 25 dollars. Exceptionally well priced but also very nice to browse.

The current owners (since before 1990) have a well organized neat and diverse shop, website! I've always been able to find new (used, rare) selections in great condition and price. I've been going there for years and hope to keep on for many more!

Great selection of vintage books and very friendly service.

I could have spent all day looking at everything they have to offer. This bookstore is a small local jem. It is exactly where you should go if you are Interested in collectables, antiques, old and rare readings, posters, maps and nicknacks. For the most part everything is organized, labeled and easy to look through but they do have a lot. As I was leaving I knew there was still so much I was leaving undiscovered. Their book selection is exceptional.They most likely have a category of your interest. Full circle, you won't leave without finding something you can't put down. if you have an appreciation for these sorts of things , than you it is unlikely you will leave
Lastly, the customer service was exemplary. After spending hours there, I had eventually made the decision to buy only one out of the many books I had my eye on. This book was $5 ( yes, some are very inexpensive), I only had a $50 dollar bill on me which she could not break. She was sweet to offer me the book anyway and to just pay during my next visit. That small act of kindness is a major part of why I took the time to write this review. It is unfortunately rare to see that type of customer courtesy, thank you!

I adore Carlson & Turner antiquarian books and book bindary. They are a small locally owned shop right on Congress Street across from East End Cemetary.
Kathy, who works every day except Sundays (then it's Bob, who's also a great guy), is very patient, informative, and helpful. When she doesn't know something, she's eager to research it in order to help you find the answer.
The selection is a hit or a miss. I usually find a treasure or two, but it's not always what I went in looking for. However, there's A LOT to take in. You'd have to be there for hours in order to really look at all of the books.

**Their books are old, so it's best not to go in looking for your favorite author's newest novel.**

The store is well organized, and although they don't have a catalogue system in place, Kathy knows the store in and out.
From what I've seen, Scott's craftsmanship when fixing and reconstructing a book's binding is exquisite. You can tell he really puts his heart into his work.
Last but not least, the pricing on the books is very decent. Some of the collectable rare books have the most affordable prices you'll find (even on the web).

What an incredible old book shop! Simply walking in and smelling the worn leather and years of worn paper was great. Browsing through the shelves was a treat! Well worth the stop!

A charming bookshop with well categorized shelves. Most are nonfiction but there is a great wall of hardback fiction to peruse!

Such a beautiful store with wonderful books and a very nice owner. Will definitely stop by next time I’m in Portland.

Great book shop!! What a lovely place to peruse and buy some classic books!