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57th Street Books


Popular Hyde Park bookstore
1301 E 57th Street
Chicago, IL 60637
United States
+1 773 684 1300
This shop is one of three bookstores that makes the trimvarnt of shops that are the Seminary Co-Op bookstores. If you are in the Hyde Park neighborhood, it is a must-see. The area literary set has come to depend on 57th Street Books for its wide selection of general titles, specialty books and children's liturature, as well as poetry readings and other events. Be careful, though, it is easy to miss the shop, located in the below-ground floor of a residential building.

Review © 2007, Wcities
57th Street Books photo by Sarah Grainer
Photo: Sarah Grainer
57th Street Books photo by Dayna Bateman
Photo: Dayna Bateman
 

 
Abraham Lincoln Book Shop


All about the 16th President
357 West Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60610
United States
+1 312 944 3085
http://www.alincolnbookshop.com
This store specializes in everything about Abraham Lincoln. Chicago figured prominently in our 16th President's life and times—it was in Chicago that Lincoln won the Republican nomination for the presidency, where he planned to practice law after leaving the White House, and where his widow retired after the President's assassination. The store offers a rich selection of Lincoln memorabilia, including books from his library, legal briefs, correspondence from his wife, autographed photographs, hand written orders to generals, and even a bed from his Springfield home.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
African American Images Bookstore


African-American literature
1909 W 95th Street
Chicago, IL 60643
United States
+1 773 445 0322
http://www.africanamericanimag...
This bookstore offers a diverse selection of merchandise and activities for its mainly African American clientelle of all ages. You will find a wide varitey of fiction and nonfiction titles, as well as a wide variety of instructive periodicals. For children, the bookstore offers weekly storytelling and after-school tutoring. For adults, the store offers frequent book signings and poetry readings. But the store's selection is not limited to books—it also stocks hand-carved figures, jewelry, posters and a variety of handbags and fashion accessories.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Afrocentric Bookstore


African-American classics and memorabilia
333 South State Street
Chicago, IL 60604
United States
+1 312 939 1956
What do award-winning author Maya Angelou and retired military general Colin Powell have in common? Well, the obvious answer is that they are both African-Americans who have made great contributions to our nation. The other answer is that they have both made author appearances at this downtown bookstore featuring Afrocentric literature, greeting cards and memorabilia. Opened in 1990, the store offers reading by guest authors at least monthly.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Afterwords Books


When all is said and done
23 E Illinois Street
Chicago, IL 60611
United States
+1 312 464 1110
The atmosphere in this 100-year old renovated warehouse is cozy, with exposed brick walls and beams. The upstairs is stocked with a selection of approximately 15,000 new books and new best sellers, poetry and fiction. The downstairs houses the brunt of the 30,000-title strong selection of used books. This is an extremely nice area to hole up and sip a cup of joe while reading your favorite bargain-priced literary treasure. You can lounge on the sofa, or pitch back and forth in a number of rocking chairs, or even enjoy a nice game of chess on one of the house sets. For the antiquarian, a display case on the main floor is filled with first editions and antique books.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Armadillo's Pillow


Quaint bookshop
6753 North Sheridan Road
Chicago, IL 60626-4406
United States
+1 773 761 2558
Located on the North Side, this is one of the most quaint little bookstores in the Chicago area. The space is small, but somehow the shop manages to cover a wide range of topics at a fair price. The average paperback price is $5. The store also offers a nice selection of hard-to-find children's books. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a wizened old book cabinet, and delightfully well done at that.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Autonomous Zone


Where the fringes are the center
2012 West Chicago Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
United States
+1 773 252 6019
http://www.azone.org/
This "info center," an element of the Network of Anarchist Collectives, has connections with just about every amusing fringe group you can dream up, including the Industrial Workers of the World. It often offers live music as well, showcasing such acts as the Lesbian Avengers show. It also has connections with local community organizations, such as the Wicker Park Food Co-op.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Baltika Inc.


Polish cultural store
4754 North Milwaukee
(West of I-90 on South side of the street)
Chicago, IL 60630
United States
+1 888 225 8452 / +1 773 777 5800
http://www.baltikainc.com/
In a town that boasts more Polish citizens than Warsaw, Poland, you can be sure you will be able to find a store that celebrates Polish culture. You will find many examples of Polish folk art and knickknacks in this wonderful ethnic shop, including hand-painted chess sets and jewelry. You can also find many posters depicting Polish cinema stars. Stop by for a little taste of the old country.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Barbara's Bookstore


Cozy, comfy nook of a bookstore
1350 North Wells Street
Chicago, IL 60610
United States
+1 312 642 5044
This shop opened in the early 1960s as a progressive, provocative place for intellectuals. It carried books on subjects that dared to tackle mainstream ideologies of the time, including politics, religion, sex, gender and race. The place is still around, though substantially less controversial - perhaps a sign of the times. It boasts an impressive calendar of events and offers a friendly, comfortable setting for buyers, browsers and readers alike.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Beck's Books


Textbook king
50 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
United States
+1 312 944 7685
This textbook chain is free of a university setting and you can find all your awe-inspiring school books here for the same prices in a more sophisticated location. They have an assortment of postcards, T-shirts, and, of course, those daunting metal shelves stacked to the ceiling with textbooks. They also purport to have new books here, though there aren't any visible except in the window display. Additional locations are scattered throughout the Chicago area.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Books Off Berwyn


Postmodern bookshop
5234 North Clark St
Chicago, IL 60640
United States
+1 773 878 9800
Welcome to the postmodern bookshop par excellence. Most people never thought it would happen, and, if you were only to see it from the outside, you would not be very impressed. But, once inside, your impression will quickly change. You can choose from more than just a fine selection of fiction and philosophy in this store. It also carries antiques, vitamins and health food in a surreal environment that would suit a John Waters film.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Bookworks


Get a fair price for your paperbacks
3444 North Clark Street
Chicago, IL 60657
United States
+1 773 871 5318
http://www.thebookworks.com/
If you need to sell your guide books in order to finance your way home, head over here. Most used book shops take great pride in raking you over the coals when they do you the favor of purchasing your books. If the economy is good and this shop is doing a good business and in need of books, the owner will give you a very fair price for your things. If you are only looking to buy, you will find one of the most organized and well stocked used book shops in Chicago. There is a case full of interesting antiquarian books and a section with first editions. A small used CD collection rounds out the store.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Brent Books and Cards


Second generation used bookstore
309 W Washington Street
Chicago, IL 60606
United States
+1 312 364 0126
If you are trying to make the rounds of used booksellers here in Chicago, this place should not be missed. Opened by Stuart Brent, his son Adam carries on the tradition of supplying a quality environment for housing and browsing for the perfect, thoughtful book. You will find stacks of art books and a generous selection of fiction titles to choose from. While searching, you also find many perfect nooks to give your selections a quick perusal before purchasing them.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Centuries & Sleuths Bookstore


Find a mystery
7419 W Madison Street
Chicago, IL 60130
United States
+1 708 771 7243
http://www.centuriesandsleuths...
You might think you have wandered into the reproduction of an English library, but never worry, the books are for sale. This store hosts a number of events, including mystery discussion groups that meet at 2pm the third Sunday of every month and a history discussion group that meets on the final Sunday of every month. It also concocts a "meeting of the minds" forum, whereby an author is raised from the dead to answer questions about his or her work.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Chicago Comics


Comics for kids and adults
3244 North Clark Street
Chicago, IL 60657
United States
+1 773 528 1983 / +1 800 509 0333 (Toll Free)
http://www.chicagocomics.com/
Comic book collectors and newbies can both find something to love at this store, which stocks more than your standard superhero fare. Sure, you can find Superman and Spiderman here, but Chicago Comics is best known for stocking the work of independent artists who tell real stories of depth and sophistication in this illustrated medium. You can also find foreign comics such as Japanese manga and European titles here, as well as illustrated erotica. Chicago Comics also sells comic-related merchandise and clothing.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Chicago Comics photo by youknewagirl
Photo: youknewagirl
 

 
Chicago Music Mart


Chicago's only music mall
333 South State Street
Chicago, IL 60604
United States
+1 312 362 6700
Some of the top music retailers in the country can be found in the Music Mart. Take time to browse the many specialty shops that stock band instruments from guitars to pianos to percussions, books, sheet music and accessories, CDs and cassettes, pianos, keyboards, organs and much more. During the lunch hour on weekdays, enjoy "Tunes at Noon," free live performances featuring different musical styles at Chicago's only music mall (or in the Jackson Plaza, weather permitting). Credit card acceptance varies by vendor.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Chicago Rare Book Center


Hard-to-find books and maps
703 Washington Street
Chicago, IL 60202
United States
+1 847 328 2132
http://www.chicagorare.com/
Visitors to the center can easily lose themselves in another world and time, in this treasure trove of fine literature and arts. A few steps from the glitzy Gold Coast area, this multi-dealer bookstore showcases and sells rare and out-of-print books and maps, classic literature collections, modern first editions, classical music scores and other collectible works in different shapes and sizes, covering hundreds of topics. The bookstore also offers patrons workshops and appraisals.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Chicago Textbook


Textbooks for less
1076 West Taylor St
Chicago, IL 60607
United States
+1 312 733 8398
This place is always full of University of Illinois students looking to buy textbooks at a better rate or to sell back used ones. However, if you are in search of historical reference materials, this place will most likely have what you are looking for. If you are in the area for lunch try any of the Italian restaurants in the surrounding area, it is a nice stop for browsing.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Children in Paradise Bookstore


Delighting children of all ages
909 North Rush Street
Chicago, IL 60611
United States
+1 312 951 5437
http://www.childreninparadise.com
This is truly a "paradise" for the younger readers among us. Just like a regular adult bookstore, the titles are split into all sorts of interesting sections to delight kids between the pre-kindergarten and 6th grade levels. But parents and older kids will enjoy browsing the shelves too - perhaps reliving childhood memories and remembering childhood stories. Some of the more popular, classic titles feature stuffed animals, figurines and games to accompany them. There's a well-attended story hour offered two mornings a week.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
City News Stand


Get the magazines of the world
4018 North Cicero Avenue
Chicago, IL 60641
United States
+1 773 545 7377
http://www.citynewsstand.com/
Whatever the magazine or periodical you seek—whether the London Times or a newspaper from the Czech Republic (and that does not even begin to describe the international selection available)—you can rest assured to you will find it here. The newsstand frequently offers more than 100 different newspapers. Depending on your timing, magazine selection ranges from 4,500 titles and to more than 8,000, including about 350 foreign magazines in half a dozen languages.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Coulsons Music Matters


Music in the Loop
St. Anthoniebreestraat 142
Chicago, IL 1011 HB
United States
+1 312 461 1989
This small, independent music store in the Loop specializes in sheet music. Music lovers and musicians alike can choose from a wide selection of scores for piano, including music for piano duet and two-pianos. Coulsons also carries a line of accessories including magazines, music stands, piano lights and metronomes and other assorted stuff. This little gem is a fun place for both aspiring and polished musicians to browse, right in the middle of downtown.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Cultural Book Store


Gold mine of African-American culture
100 West Randolph St #204
Chicago, IL 60601
United States
+1 312 214 1314
If you are looking for a biography on an African-American hero, a greeting card to match or a set of elephant bookends, search no further. Cultural Book Store has something to offer any shopper seeking a taste of Africa. Along with a fine selection of books and cards, there are various gift items—such as a freestanding giraffe and tribal wall masks—to please the selective shopper. For frequent visitors, the store offers an annual USD10 membership, which entitles members to 15% discount on purchases.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
D & Z House of Books Inc.


For Polish books
5714 West Belmont Avenue
Chicago, IL 60634
United States
+1 773 282 4222
http://www.polishhouseofbooks.com
This is an exclusive bookshop for Polish books. Available in a wide range of topics, such as fiction, philosophy, European music, art, medicine and history. There is also a special section on the latest bestsellers from Poland. English translations are available too.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Delta Ukrainian Enterprise


A Ukrainian flavor
2242 West Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60622
United States
+1 773 235 7788
This friendly store is jammed with imported tchotchkes (knickknacks) and gifts from the Ukraine, including children's books in the Cyrillic alphabet, traditional wool scarves, nesting dolls, and exquisite Easter eggs in a range of colors. There is a wide range of products from several other East European countries as well.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Exlibris Galeria Polskiej Ksiazki


Polish book source
3265 North Milwaukee Ave
Chicago, IL 60618
United States
With a ceiling painted with clouds inspired by the children's novel The Little Prince and a mural of an owl on the back wall, this Polish language bookstore is one of the more endearing bookshops is the city. But once you're buzzed in the front door, you quickly realize that the store is much more than a beautifully decorated shell. You will find a powerhouse of Polish literature, manuscripts, newspapers and magazines.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Flight 001


Before you take off
1133 North State Street
Chicago, IL 60610
United States
+1 312 944 1001
http://www.flight001.com/
Head to this store before you get on a flight. It sells travel bags, suitcases, wallets, cameras, radios, computer kits, toiletries, clocks and watches. You can also buy your books, i-pod speakers, talking translators, mini mouse, reading lamps, pillows, ear protection devices, mobile phone chargers and more. If you think the products available here could be useful to your friends or relatives, purchase a gift certificate.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Gallery 37 Store


Discover exciting art from new artists
66 East Randolph Street
Gallery 37 Center for the Arts
Chicago, IL 60601
United States
+1 312 744 8925
http://www.gallery37.org
Here you will find quite impressive, unusual creations designed and crafted by young area talent. Art as original and inspired as the program from which it is born: the internationally recognized, Gallery 37. This project offers real opportunities for apprentice artists to be mentored and exposed to visual, literary, media and performing arts, and offers these artists the opportunity to work on public and commissioned projects. Many of the most outstanding commissioned pieces are displayed and sold to the public.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
George Lauterer Corp.


Religious shop
619 S La Salle Street
Chicago, IL 60605
United States
+1 312 913 1881
http://www.lauterer.com
This specialty bookstore has been in business since 1881 and has everything for your religious and ceremonial needs, including usher badges, accessories, society badges, awards, plaques, sashes, bookmarks and fans. It has special holiday supplies too, including wares for Feast Day, Women's Day, Pastor's Day and provisions for all of your fund-raising needs. The Loop showroom gives an adequate impression of the stock currently available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Hidden Treasures


Serving discriminating secondhand shoppers
46 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
United States
+1 312 943 7761
This specialty resale shop, supporting Northwestern Memorial Hospital programs, offers beautiful things for even more attractive prices. Tons of used books, gorgeous women's shoes, dresses, jackets, and even such novelty items as a gun belt or two can all be found on the shelves and clothes racks here. Manager Lynne Easter is incredibly helpful and pleasant, always more than willing to take a minute of her busy time to help you find an item.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Myopic Books


See the world clearly
1564 North Milwaukee Avenue
Wicker Park
Chicago, IL 60622
United States
+1 773 862 4882
http://www.myopicbookstore.com/
One of few bookstores in the area, Myopic has two floors, adding up to over 70,000 titles. If he does not have it in stock, chances are proprietor Joe Judd can help you find what you are looking for. Prices, on average, are marked at half the book's retail price. Smoking is allowed in the basement, where chess club meetings are held alongside Café Thax, a weekly poetry reading series on Sundays. Coffee and pastries are served to make browsing more enjoyable. Myopic is open late every night, a plus for insomniac readers.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Myopic Books photo by Dave!
Photo: Dave!
Myopic Books photo by Islington Hygieneboy
Photo: Islington Hygieneboy
Myopic Books photo by Sophie Haines
Photo: Sophie Haines
 

 
O'Gara & Wilson Ltd


City's Oldest Bookstore
1448 East 57th Street
Chicago, IL 60637
United States
+1 773 363 0993
Anyone with a love of books or history will enjoy stopping at the oldest operating bookstore in the city. Established in 1888, this quaint, well-visited shop is nestled comfortably in the center of the Hyde Park-South Kenwood district. Within the hushed, intimate confines, one can mull over works of fine literature, history and art to the quiet hum of classical music. The vast selection of quality used books is reasonably priced.

Review © 2007, Wcities
O'Gara & Wilson Ltd photo by purpleprimate
Photo: purpleprimate
O'Gara & Wilson Ltd photo by purpleprimate
Photo: purpleprimate
 

 
Occult Book Store


Magical book selections
1579 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite 321
Chicago, IL 60622
United States
+1 773 292 0995
http://www.occultbookstore.com/
This unusual outpost of arcana has been in operation in Chicago since 1920. Topics here include numerology, astrology, magic, eastern religions, yoga and meditation, among many other things. There is also a selection of used books. In addition, they sell candles, incense, jewelry and oils. The prices are fair on the used material, averaging $8, but occult topics range $6-20. They have an in-house palmist here, and provide for Tarot readings. You can also have your astrological charts read, by appointment.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Occult Book Store photo by Trista B
Photo: Trista B
 

 
Old Town School of Folk Music


World-famous place to learn and listen to folk arts of all kinds
4544 North Lincoln Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States
+1 773 728 6000
http://www.oldtownschool.org/
In 1957, folk musician Win Stracke opened a small school teaching folk music in Old Town. Today, the school has moved further north and expanded into not only an internationally known school, but also a performance venue that features many well-known folk performers. Students can learn a variety of ethnic dance and music styles. Sign up to learn how to play blues harmonica, Irish ballad singing, African drumming and much more. There is also a retail store where you can find dozens of books and tapes.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Old Town School of Folk Music photo by Paul Schultz
Photo: Paul Schultz
Old Town School of Folk Music photo by Paul Schultz
Photo: Paul Schultz
Old Town School of Folk Music photo by Andrew Suprenant
Photo: Andrew Suprenant
Old Town School of Folk Music photo by Toby Tennent
Photo: Toby Tennent
Old Town School of Folk Music photo by Ted Swedenburg
Photo: Ted Swedenburg
Old Town School of Folk Music photo by Anne Holub
Photo: Anne Holub
Old Town School of Folk Music photo by Giorgio Ventola Phot
Photo: Giorgio Ventola Phot
Old Town School of Folk Music photo by erin sanders
Photo: erin sanders
Old Town School of Folk Music photo by Dave Short
Photo: Dave Short
Old Town School of Folk Music photo by fresca pesca
Photo: fresca pesca
Old Town School of Folk Music photo by sleepy sparrow
Photo: sleepy sparrow
 

 
Pauline Books & Media


Religious books and music
172 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60601
United States
+1 312 346 4228
http://www.pauline.org
Operated by the Daughters of St. Paul, this place has a large selection of religious and inspirational books as well as compact discs and cassette tapes, more than 650 videos available for purchase or rental and a plethora of card and gift items. It also has Spanish-speaking employees available to translate for orders and materials in Spanish. Additionally, it offers a decent stock of software and will arrange for mail order purchases.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Polonia Bookstore


Largest Polish bookstore in America
4732 North Milwaukee Avenue
Chicago, IL 60630
United States
+1 773 481 6968
http://www.polonia.com
A true Chicago original, this neighborhood bookstore is the largest Polish book store in America. Serving Chicago's large and active Polish community, it carries a collection of more than 800 books in both Polish and English that recall the history of Poland and relate the story of the Polish people and their culture. Polish magazines and journals are also in stock. A wide-ranging selection of Polish literature translated into English is also available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Powell's Bookstore


Used books in student neighborhood
1501 East 57th Street
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL 60637
United States
+1 773 955 7780
http://www.powells.com
The store offers a very broad range of selections, notably in the used academic non-fiction department, with special attention to American/European history and literary criticism. Fiction can be found in large quantities, alongside titles in philosophy, anthropology and others. If bargains are what you are after, walk down to the basement for a grand selection of books, especially in children's and foreign language. Powell's also offers a 10% discount every first of the month to those wearing store T-shirts, which can be purchased for $10.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Powell's Bookstore (Lincoln Avenue)


Used book chain
2850 North Lincoln Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657
United States
+1 773 248 1444
http://www.powells.com
This third of the three Chicago Powell's locations is 8,000 square feet of used books encompassing a typically large range of general topics: fiction, academic topics, fine art, politics, psychology, philosophy, and a generous offering in children's books. The décor of the store is classical and handmade. All three of the locations have a distinct emphasis on used academic nonfiction.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Prairie Avenue Bookshop


Books on architecture, graphic design and more
418 South Wabash Avenue
Chicago, IL 60605
United States
+1 312 922 8311 / +1 800 474 2724
http://www.pabook.com
If you are enthralled with the breathtaking view of Chicago's skyline and want to learn more about what goes into building such magnificent structures, stop by this bookstore. You will find one of the largest selections of books on architecture in the world. The bookstore also sells a substantial number of works covering graphic design, urban planning and landscape design. With 9,000 square feet spread over four levels, the store itself also offers a notable example of architecture.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Printers Row Book Fair


Bookish delights
57 West Polk Street
Chicago, IL 60606
United States
+1 312 222 3986 (Voice mail)
http://www.printersrowbookfair...
Now a trendy neighborhood with converted condos and young professionals who enjoy the proximity to the Loop, Printers Row was so named in the 1890s when it served as a publishing headquarters that rivaled New York. While the presses have long since moved, the annual book fair is a reminder of that era, and is a highlight for Chicago's literary community. More than 170 venders sell new, used and antique books in this outdoor street fair. In addition, the fair sponsors several poetry readings, panel discussions and workshops.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Printers Row Book Fair photo by stephan!e lee
Photo: stephan!e lee
Printers Row Book Fair photo by Rebecca Silliman
Photo: Rebecca Silliman
Printers Row Book Fair photo by wvallen
Photo: wvallen
Printers Row Book Fair photo by ChiliMac
Photo: ChiliMac
Printers Row Book Fair photo by Gina Krosoczka
Photo: Gina Krosoczka
 

 
Quimby's


Queer store comics
1854 West North Avenue
Chicago, IL 60622
United States
+1 773 342 0910
http://www.quimbys.com
Underground collectors will find a complete selection of the hard-to-come by and grotesque, including comic books, 'zines and various examples of the latest in strange art. Titles like 'The Art and Science of Dumpster Diving' by John Hoffman and 'Freaks: We Who Are Not As Others' by Daniel P. Mannix say it all. The bookstore also often hosts frequent readings/signings on the premises.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Quimby's photo by JK Cole |ifredsayred
Photo: JK Cole |ifredsayred
Quimby's photo by Vanessa C.
Photo: Vanessa C.
Quimby's photo by chris pointon
Photo: chris pointon
Quimby's photo by Dave!
Photo: Dave!
Quimby's photo by Mark Borino
Photo: Mark Borino
Quimby's photo by Kirsten Hunter
Photo: Kirsten Hunter
Quimby's photo by Joshua Powell
Photo: Joshua Powell
Quimby's photo by brian shapiro
Photo: brian shapiro
Quimby's photo by Eric Bartholomew
Photo: Eric Bartholomew
 

 
Rain Dog Books


Quaint little book store
404 S Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60605
United States
+1 312 922 1200
This quaint little bookstore is all about that special collector with a knack for sniffing out the hard to find, rare and offbeat titles. The room is divided into three narrow aisles, with each and every book meticulously wrapped in plastic to protect it from deterioration. Owner Richard Vokoun personally selects each title himself and tries to stock books for those with discriminating tastes. He focuses on offering specific editions, rather than just titles.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Selected Works Used Bookstore


Where the selections are in the work
3510 N Broadway Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657
United States
+1 773 975 0002
This is a bookstore with real personality. Owner Keith Peterson decorates the place with photos from his many globe-trotting expeditions. In homage to the store's large crime genre section, manager Charles Simmons calls himself the "Lord High Commissioner," a reference to a 1930s-era hit-man called the "Lord High Executioner" by the newspapers. But don't think the store focuses so much on personality that it forgets about the merchandise. While the selection is general interest, it has sections of fiction, humanities, philosophy, anthropology, and psychology sections. Cookbooks and sheet music are also featured. The store, in its new location on the Loop, offers wonderful views of the gardens of Grant Park.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Selected Works Used Bookstore photo by Kelly Zeng
Photo: Kelly Zeng
 

 
Seminary Co-op Bookstore


Possibly the best academic bookstore in the country
5757 South University Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
United States
+1 773 752 4381
http://www.semcoop.com/
For the academic out there, be sure not to miss this bookstore buried in the University of Chicago's Theological Seminary. The shelves are virtually stuffed with more than 100,000 titles covering almost any academic subject you can think of. Books on theology, philosophy, and literary criticism are their particular areas of specialty, but there are plenty of books on more general subjects as well. This is a truly amazing bookstore located in a particularly lovely and tranquil part of the city.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Seminary Co-op Bookstore photo by Elisa Mai
Photo: Elisa Mai
Seminary Co-op Bookstore photo by Nat Hansen
Photo: Nat Hansen
 

 
Transitions Book Place


Spiritual literature
1000 West North Avenue
Chicago, IL 60622
United States
+1 312 951 7323
http://www.transitionsbookplac...
With 6,000 feet of books, tapes and videos on personal growth, inward expansion and "the pursuit of spirituality", you would think this shop could meet every need of your soul. And it comes awfully close, offering handmade and unusual greeting cards, products and videos for yoga and meditation practice and if you have missed lunch that day, don't worry. There are herbal teas, specialty drinks and light snacks on hand. Book clubs, reading groups and other community activities are also featured.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Unabridged Bookstore


Everything a Local Bookshop Should Be
3251 North Broadway
Chicago, IL 60657
United States
+1 773 883 9119
If you are tired of the gigantic chain bookstores, then check out Unabridged. Catering to a large gay clientele, this bookstore has a big selection of gay and lesbian theme literature. Downstairs has the largest collection of travel books in the city. This is everything a neighborhood bookshop should be. Browsers are more than welcome, the shelves are packed with varied and interesting reading and the staff is very helpful.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Underground Book Store


Everything Africa
1727 E 87th Street
Chicago, IL 60617
United States
+1 773 768 8869
This is a great source to learn about African and African American culture. The store offers a large selection of significant works, some of which are politically controversial. In addition to books, the shop offers a wide selection of newspapers, magazines and tape-recorded speeches by Malcolm X, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Minister Louis Farrakhan and other influential African American leaders. The children's selection is immense, with many titles that probably aren't available anywhere else in the city.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Westfield Chicago Ridge


Shop Chicago!
444, Chicago Ridge Mall
Chicago, IL 60415
United States
+1 708 499 0840
http://westfield.com/chicagori...
Find whatever you are looking for at this great mall just southwest of Downtown Chicago.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Women & Children First


The name says it all
5233 North Clark Street
Chicago, IL 60640
United States
+1 773 769 9299
http://www.womenandchildrenfir...
This popular, comfortable bookshop, was started in the 1970s and stocks books that appeal to the thoughtful reader of any age, sexual orientation or ethnicity. Mainly written by women, the stock ranges from biography and literature to cook books and women's studies. The staff in the special children's section is adept at helping customers choose suitable gift books for young readers. The shop also carries music and greeting cards and operates a video rental service. In addition, it hosts a popular schedule of readings by both established and up-and-coming female authors.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Chicago - Bookshops"
Chicago - All Shopping & Services
Chicago - Shopping & Services - All Chicago
Chicago - Shopping & Services - Chinatown
Chicago - Shopping & Services - Downtown
Chicago - Shopping & Services - Lakeview
Chicago - Shopping & Services - Lincoln Park
Chicago - Shopping & Services - Magnificent Mile
Chicago - Shopping & Services - Near North Side
Chicago - Shopping & Services - Out & About
Chicago - Shopping & Services - South Loop
Chicago - Shopping & Services - South Side
Chicago - Shopping & Services - The Loop
Chicago - Shopping & Services - Uptown
Chicago - Shopping & Services - Wicker Park/Bucktown
Chicago - Antiques
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Chicago - Food & Wine
Chicago - Jewelry & Accessories
Chicago - Markets
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Chicago - Stores & Arcades
Chicago - Toy Stores
Chicago - Hairdressers & Barbers
Chicago - Taxi Firms
Chicago - Public Transport
Chicago - Currency Exchange
Chicago - Internet
Chicago - Services - Business
Chicago - Services - Local

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Detroit (402 miles)
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Minneapolis (528 miles)
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Toronto (721 miles)
Niagara Falls (733 miles)
Buffalo (755 miles)
Memphis (791 miles)
Chattanooga (815 miles)

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