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Old Capitol Books
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(96) 4.5
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90
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GayOut Score
G4.5
Address
482 Alvarado St, Monterey, CA 93940
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About this place Old Capitol Books
Old Capitol Books is an independent bookstore on Alvarado Street in downtown Monterey, with new and used books. It has a large LGBTQ+, gender-studies and ethnic-studies section. Working with Monterey Peninsula Pride, it has hosted the Rainbow Lounge, a monthly LGBTQ+ meetup for over-18s. It also holds author readings.
Monterey has no LGBTQ+ center or gay bar, so the shop works as an informal meeting point. It's easy to stop in while walking downtown, and the staff can point you to local events. Check the store's channels for the current meetup date.
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Write a ReviewGoogle Reviews
Verified by Google4.5
★★★★★
96 reviews
Based on 96 Google reviews.
vita quintanilla
Aug 2026
★★★★★
Best bookstore in Monterey, if you ask me. The space is small but exceptionally well-curated and balanced. The staff are very kind and very knowledgeable. It's a hoot to visit every time!
Yana
Aug 2026
★★★★☆
Very cute bookstore located on the second floor. They do have a small selection of fiction
Kritika Ajmani
Jul 2026
★★★★★
Brandon Burke
Jul 2026
★★★★★
Love this spot. Support local bookstores!
Jessica G.
Jul 2026
★★★★★
Book collectors with an eye for the eclectic and overlooked will appreciate this place!
Paul Watson
Jul 2026
★★★★★
Just stopped by, but they were closed. I will go back later.
Paige Opp
Jul 2026
★★★★★
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Suggest an Edit — Old Capitol Books
Last updated on 18 October 2026