About Us
COAS Books is New Mexico’s largest independent bookstore! We have an incredible selection of new and used books — including regional and out-of-print books —, CDs, DVDs, LP vinyl records, audio books, puzzles and games. COAS Books is locally owned and operated, with two stores located in Las Cruces, New Mexico. We receive hundreds of books every day, so our inventory is constantly changing and full of hidden gems. Come visit our recently expanded kids section at both stores!
We also offer trade credit to help you save more on your purchases. Bring in the books you no longer want or need and we’ll give you trade credit that can be applied to your purchase of other books and media in our stores.
Come by our store on Main Street — or our branch store on Solano — and we’ll be happy to help you find what you’re looking for!
Our History
In 1973, archaeologist Pat Beckett started a small archeological publishing company in Las Cruces, New Mexico called COAS Publishing. The company published local history books, academic works, anthropology books, and other archeology media. As Pat's vast collection of books continued to grow, overwhelming his library, he decided to go into the book business and COAS Books was born!
The name COAS has its roots in archaeology, coming from the Nahuatl term “coa” — meaning digging stick —, but is also the acronym for "Center of Anthropological Studies". Today, COAS Books is run and operated by Mike and Veronica Beckett as they continue to proudly serve the community in the heart of Las Cruces.
