Ray & Judy's Book Stop is a book store in Rockaway, NJ. Open: Mon–Sat 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sun 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Phone: (973) 586-9182. Average rating is 4.8 stars from 175 reviews.
Ray & Judy's Book Stop
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Exterior view of Ray & Judy's Book Stop storefront.
4.8 175 reviews Today 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Every Shelf Holds Someone's Favorite Story

A beloved independent bookshop on Main Street in Rockaway, NJ, where Ray knows your taste before you do.

About Us

Ray & Judy's Book Stop has earned a 4.8-star reputation not through algorithms, but through Ray himself, who has been known to walk first-time visitors down every aisle, sharing the stories behind the books and the stories behind his life.

The shop at 40 W Main Street carries literature classics alongside new fiction, comics, and games. The selection is curated the way a good librarian curates: with opinion, with memory, with genuine care for the person on the other side of the shelf.

This is a place where the owner remembers what you bought last time. That quality is rarer than a first edition.

What We Offer

Books anchor the shop: literary classics, contemporary fiction, and the kind of hidden gem you'd never have found scrolling a feed. The inventory breathes, rotating with new arrivals alongside beloved standbys.

Beyond books, the shop carries comics and games, making it a genuine gathering point for readers of every kind. Staff recommendations are honest, not promotional. Ask what Ray is reading. He will tell you.

Why Choose Us

Ray personally tours first-time visitors through every aisle, a welcome you won't find on Amazon.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars across 175 reviews, one of Rockaway's most trusted small businesses.
Fiction, classics, comics, and games under one roof, curated with genuine taste.
Staff who remember your preferences and surface books you didn't know you needed.
An independently owned shop where every purchase supports a real Rockaway family.
A community gathering point on Main Street for over a decade of local reading life.

Gallery

Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

“Such a magical place for finding literature classics and new favorites of fiction. Its owner is an amazing person.”

— Angela Plefka

What Our Customers Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear from our satisfied customers

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 months ago
"Such a magical place for finding literature classics and new favorites of fiction. Its owner is an amazing person."
— Angela Plefka
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
7 months ago
"An amazing selection of books, comics, and games! Very friendly and helpful staff. Definitely worth checking out!"
— Jack Scully (nowicantlose)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3 years ago
"Went to this bookstore for the first time and Ray gave me a tour of all the aisles, shared stories of his life and made me feel very welcome. He mandated masks which I think is so important for the safety of customers, especially in a small space! He even provided me with a mask for free as I did not have one upon entering. If I could leave a 5 star review in exchange for every low rated review because they require masks, I would. Ray is an elderly man and it is his property, sucks that people are so entitled they choose to bring negativity to such a great business. He’s very passionate and I commend him for maintaining this business for so long! I felt like I was going into a time capsule and felt very at peace. He even has cute bells that go off to mark every hour! Wonderful place with a wonderful story, I’ll be going back soon as I finish reading the books I bought today :)"
— Maanasa Baalaji
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10 months ago
"Absolutely loved it! Wish I went earlier to really look but I’ll spend more time next time. Great selection of books and comics. I was really surprised by the comic selection since most stores don’t carry that much for mom and pop’s. The owner is so sweet and great to talk to. Highly recommend!!!"
— Laura Crismale
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 years ago
"The kind of bookstore that asks you to find a nook or cranny to explore. Stacks of novels. Support pillars of hardcovers. A king's ransom in single issue comics. Also a great selection of magic the gathering sealed products. Super recommend."
— Kato

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Ray & Judy's Book Stop located?

The shop is at 40 W Main St, Rockaway, NJ 07866, right on the main commercial stretch of town and easy to find on foot or by car.

What kinds of books do you carry?

The inventory spans literary classics, contemporary fiction, and a rotating selection of new favorites. The shop also carries comics and games, so there's something for every kind of reader.

Is this a used bookstore, a new bookstore, or both?

Ray & Judy's carries a mix. The emphasis is on a well-chosen selection rather than sheer volume, so expect quality over quantity at a range of price points.

Can Ray help me find a book if I'm not sure what I want?

Absolutely. Reviewers consistently mention that Ray gives personal tours and offers genuine recommendations. Don't hesitate to describe what you're in the mood for.

Do you carry comics and games as well?

Yes. Comics and games are a real part of the shop's identity, not an afterthought. It makes the store a destination for a wider community of enthusiasts.

What are the shop's hours?

Hours aren't listed online, so it's worth calling ahead or stopping by to confirm current times before making the trip.

Is the shop good for gift shopping?

It's one of the best spots in Rockaway for a thoughtful gift. The staff can help you match a book to a person, which is a skill most big-box stores simply don't offer.

Hours of Operation

Closed · Opens Sunday at 11:00 AM
Monday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday Today 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
90° Clear Rockaway
Sat 92° 71°
Sun 86° 71°
Mon 74° 68°
Tue 68° 60°
Wed 80° 60°
Thu 87° 63°
Fri 83° 66°

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