When I first arrived at the bookstore in the morning, nobody was inside or had opened the doors. I waited 15 minutes before I just decided to leave. I decided I would go get breakfast. Afterward, I decided to call the store and see if anyone finally had arrived. Someone had finally opened the doors and so I decided to go back. I've been going to quite a few bookstores to find some philosophy and classical works... This bookstore had a very small limited selection of books. I have no idea how people think there is a large selection of books when the room is not much bigger than a large bathroom. I'm sure it's not that the owner wouldn't want to have more books on the shelves, it's just that there is no space. I mentioned to the owner that I had been waiting for someone to open the doors and then he kinda just ignored it. If you read the responses he leaves to other critics they are at times snarky and reflects his poor customer service. In consideration of the customer service I received and of the limited quality of books inside the bookstore, I cannot recommend this bookstore. Driving a little bit more to McKays or the Book Attic is so much worth the time.

One does not expect to find a used bookstore inside a mall (though malls would be greatly improved by them), much less a really excellent used bookstore--but that's just what you'll find when you wander into Defunct Books at the end of the Sycamore Mall. There's an excellent selection of both ordinary used books and collectibles--you'll find both current bestsellers and signed first editions of collectible books across a wide variety of genres. My favorite part is the extensive poetry section, where I was pleased to find a Denis Johnson book I've always wanted to own. It's a great store and a great service to the southeast side of Iowa City.

Very negative vibes here for me. Did not see the clerk at first with all the clutter, boxes and out of place items, said Hi, how are ya and got a very discerning, stern look. Wandered around a bit and picked up a few books and almost sent a whole shelf to the floor as they are not neatly stacked, nor could I find any price. I was going to ask and saw the man standing up watching every thing I did with a painful grimace on his face. I felt uncomfortable and left. Maybe I should return and check out the occult section - probably some good finds.

I wanna say, this guy is amazing in his knowledge of poetry. At the same time he didn't quite share my extensive knowledge of Tom Clancy and Dean Koontz. All in all this book store is a treasure of times past and something that is sadly leaving an America full of short attention spans and a reality star posing as President. Love it.

Great little store with a helpful staff. I went for a simple poetry book and ended up with the poetry book, a companion book and a wonderful F.L.W. architectural book. This little gm is inside a nondescript mall which is anchored by a Von Mauer. The prices are much better than big stores. Couldn't recommend enough.

Defunct is everything a bookstore should be. They have a great selection in the store and storage, and the owner will help you find any book in question even if he doesn’t have it. The owner has a wonderful personality and sense of humor. I recommend this store over any big name store in town.

If you haven't gone here yet, what are you waiting for? The owner is knowledgeable and attentive and devoted to providing a great experience, and the selection is always great. Unless your goal is to leave without a single book in hand, you will NOT regret your visit.

Just found this bookstore in my neighborhood while doing a Google search. 5-stars solely based on the owners responses to the negative reviews... Cracked me up! Looking forward to visiting and buying a funky book from you! Thanks for keeping real books alive!

I see many good reviews here at your bussiness. I am going to come by if possible to see if you are interested in getting these 100 plus books I have from my family's estate sale.Alot of hard find cookbooks abdnovels.Do you purchase books?

This bookstore is a rare gem and an eagerly anticipated stop whenever I visit Nashville. The owner is happy to share his knowledge, and I never leave empty-handed. You'll be amazed at the unique treasures you can find here!

The owner is funny and engaging. Great selection of books of every kind. This book store is a local gem and we are so lucky to have them in our community. Definitely worth checking out if you're a book lover.

Sweet, authentic bookstore! We need more places like this in the world to offset the Amazon onslaught. No better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than prowling through a bookstore like this. Five stars!

I knew this book store in Iowa City! The owner is very knowledgeable and passionate about his books! You're guaranteed to have a great experience here whether you're buying or selling!

This bookstore is everything you could ask for from an independent bookstore. The owner helped me find a book I've been trying to find for years. I cannot recommend it enough!

I was disappointed by this book shop. Many of the books were sun damaged from being outside and the inside of the room size shop was crowded and musty.

This little book store has a lot of unique aged titles. The focus is obviously on character here, and I had a lot of fun exploring their shelves.

Literally hole in the wall. Don't go here looking for anything. But do be prepared to purchase what awaits you!!!

Absolutely TINY place. So small you can't get more than 4-5 people in it at one time. Selection is quite limited.

Defunct Books more than satisfies one’s desire for reading with their veritable treasure trove of literary works!

Quaint, reasonable, and knowledgeable, met me to buy a book even though it was after store hours!!

Really cool collection of books! Had to hold back on buying a bunch!

Great little used bookstore. You'll always find a treasure.

Small store, very tight fit, esoteric collection.

A lovely little spot.

Bad customer service.

Great selection