Titular owner John W. Doull is understated about his 17-and-a-half-year-old business success. “There are several shops like ours in the city. We try to be somewhat funky.” Walking by the store’s Barrington Street windows, you might have the impression it’s a chaotic mess and be intimidated by the clutter. Not so, says Doull: “Despite appearances, it is highly organized, and more people are willing to come in than are scared away.” 1684 Barrington, 429-1652
1st runner-up: Trident Booksellers and Cafe, 1256 Hollis, 423-7100
2nd runner-up: Back Pages, 1526 Queen, 423-4750