One or more bookstores are present in West Columbia. Bookstores are essentially retail outlets for books, magazines, maps and stationery (though this may vary from store to store). They are run by booksellers or bookmen. These stores can be either independent, or part of a chain of stores of regional or national character. These stores usually have the books sorted by type into various sections. Second-hand bookshops may also be present, where one can buy old books at cheaper prices.