If you’re searching for some used, rare, or antique books, you should go to your nearest bookstore. In this post, we’ve gathered a list of the best independent bookstores in Chicago.
1. Unabridged Bookstore
Located in the Lakeview neighborhood in Chicago, Unabridged Bookstore is open daily from 10am to 7pm. This independent store is owned by Ed Devereux and has been open since November 1980. This local store is known for being dedicated and knowledgeable to all things literature!
Come visit the friendly staff who have been running this store for over 40 years. The store is Chicago’s go-to for LGBTQ+ literature, so if you’re looking for that specific genre give the shop visit! You can also order from the store’s online shop too.
Visit the store online here.
2. Quimby’s
Quimby’s bookstore is an independent bookstore that focuses on selling independently-published work. From books and comics, to zines and ephemera, they love to showcase any work that is unusual, aberrant, saucy, and even lowbrow! The store has been providing eclectic literature since September 1991.
Some of the stock the team sells is consignment, and some isn’t. Over the years, the store has grown three times the size of the original shop. Their team is passionate about literature and they’re always happy to chat to customers about their favorite books and recommendations.
Contact the store here.
3. Sandmeyer’s Bookstore
Sandmeyer’s Bookstore has been open since 1982, giving the team over 40 years in the industry. This store has been family owned since opening, giving the store an authentic family feel. The team love to give customers recommendations, so don’t feel shy if you have any questions in store!
You can also access the bookshop online and have your favorite books shipped straight to your front door. Gift certificates are also available, however, these can only be purchased in person or via phone. You can even connect with the store on Facebook to meet other bookstore fans and join their friendly community.
Visit Sandmeyer’s online here.
4. RoscoeBooks
Located in Roscoe Village, Chicago, RoscoeBooks is dedicated to adults and children who love reading. Their stock of literature spans all genres and the team is always happy to help you find the perfect story for you. Visit the store on W Roscoe Street to visit the team in person!
RoscoeBooks also focuses on providing immersive events that create a safe space for all book worms. One of these programs is their book club which is now meeting in person. Visit their website to find out which book they’re reading and where the next book meet will be!
Check out RoscoeBooks online here.
5. City Lit Books
If you’re after an independent bookstore with a range of genres, try visiting City Lit Books. With a range that spans every genre and has a wealth of indie kid’s literature, this store is a great option for readers with kids. The store is open every day apart from Mondays, giving keen readers lots of time to come and find their next favorite book.
The store also hosts events and frequently has authors visit to discuss their book with fans. From fantasy events to kids book events, the store has something for everyone. Visit their website to see upcoming meets, alongside new releases hitting their shelves.
Visit the store online here.
6. Volumes Bookcafe
This independent bookstore is based in Wicker Park, but it’s more than just a store! Volumes is also a cafe, providing readers with tasty treats and drinks while they browse shelves of curated books. This cafe was created to build a community space for bookworms of all ages. Make sure you visit if you’re in the neighbourhood!
Check the store’s website to see the latest releases on their shelves, or to get recommendations for the staff’s top picks. Whether you want a fictional book, non-fiction, or a bestseller, the staff are ready to help.
Contact the store here.
7. After-words
Open 7 days a week, After-words always have time to help out dedicated readers. This store is based in downtown Chicago and is one of the few independent stores still based there. Their space has two floors of hand-picked books ready to be purchased. With over 70,000 different titles on their shelves, readers are spoilt for choice!
If you are struggling to find a particular book, don’t hesitate to contact them and the team will help you locate it. They sometimes help find out-of-print titles too, so make sure you ask a staff member for help!
Find the store online here.
8. Semicolon
Semicolon is a store that focuses on art, literature, and knowledge. The store is Chicago’s only black woman-owned store that strives to better the local community. This location sometimes doubles as a gallery space too. If you want to visit a bookstore that believes in giving back, make sure you pop into Semicolon.
The store has had press in various mediums, for example, the Chicago Magazine, the Chicago Review of Books, and many more. This is a popular store for readers and art loves alike, and a must-visit if you haven’t already been.
Contact the store here.
9. Pilsen Community Books
Pilsen Community Books was founded in 2016 due to an increased interest in having a used bookstore in the Pilsen neighborhood. In 2020 the store became Chicago’s only employee-owned and operated bookstore. The employees strive to unite their passion for bookselling with the thought that labor is entitled to all it produces.
The store holds many events and book club readings, including ones that focus on Latin American literature in Spanish. This store wants to be as inclusive as possible, so visit here to learn something new.
Visit the team online here.
10. Barbara’s Bookstores
With six locations in the Chicago area, Barbara’s Bookstore has been a prominent independent bookseller since it opened in 1963. These stores offer a range of books, digital books, and even audiobooks to a community of book lovers. You can even contact the team for bulk sales too.
The store also publishes reviews on their website that are written by booksellers and guest writers. These are a great read for anyone interested in the analysis of literature. You can also watch videos and buy books too on their well-designed website.
Contact the store here.