As the second most populous city in the Midwest, Chicago is unsurprisingly home to a number of excellent bookstores. If you’re a bibliophile, you must be looking for your next great read or want to explore some new bookstores in Chicago.
However, with so many bookstores in the city, picking out one might seem complicated but don’t worry, we’ve narrowed down the list for you!
Bookstores in Chicago
Here we are with some of the best bookstores we have shortlisted in the city.
Semicolon Bookstore & Gallery
Semicolon Bookstore & Gallery highly nurture the connection between art, literature, and the pursuit of knowledge. It believes in using the power of words to better the community. This bookstore, which is best among other bookstores in Chicago, is committed to increasing literacy rates in the city and beyond.
Semicolon Bookstore invites CPS students every month to their store to clean the shelves. This is done to initiate the change they want to make, and also, the students who come up as cleaning volunteers can take their favorite books home at no charge. But they can only take one book at a time.
Location: 1714 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622, USA
Contact Number: +1 312-877-5170
Website: https://www.semicolonchi.com/
The Book Cellar
The Book Cellar is one of the local bookstores in Chicago that is known for its wide selection of books and warm, inviting atmosphere. The store has been in the community for many years and is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.
In addition to its large selection of books, the store also sells items such as journals, cards, and gifts. The bookstore often holds events such as book signings and readings. Whether you are a longtime resident of Chicago or just visiting for the weekend, be sure to stop by The Book Cellar – you won’t be disappointed!
Location: 4736-38 N Lincoln Ave Chicago, IL 60625
Contact Number: +1 773 293-2665
Website: https://www.bookcellarinc.com/
Myopic Bookstore
Myopic, Chicago’s Bookstore, is among the city’s oldest and largest bookstores that you can visit on any day of the week from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm. They have a vast collection of around 60,000 books available at their store. Also, the unique store specializes in books that are hard to find or out of print, making it a haven for book lovers.
Whether you’re looking for the latest bestseller or a classic novel, you’ll be able to find it here. With a knowledgeable and passionate staff, the Myopic Bookstore will surely have something for everyone. And if you need a break from all the shopping, there’s a coffee shop on site where you can relax and enjoy a cup of joe.
Location: 1564 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, USA
Contact Number: +1 773-862-4882
Website: https://www.myopicbookstore.com/
Uncharted Books- Among Renowned Bookstores in Chicago
Uncharted Books Chicago is an independent brick-and-mortar bookstore in the Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago. The store specializes in out-of-print and hard-to-find books and offers a wide selection of comics, zines, and other alternative publications.
When you step inside Uncharted Books, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world. The shelves overflow with books of all different genres, and there’s even a cozy reading nook where you can enjoy your time curling up with a book. They also run an online store with a wide collection of rare, unusual, and antique items.
Location: 5140 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640, USA
Contact Number: +1 872-208-7021
Website: https://www.unchartedbooks.com/
Also read: 7 Interesting Anime Stores in Chicago
Pilsen Community Books
As of 2020, Pilsen Community Books was Chicago’s first employee-owned and operated independent bookstore. The store follows an exciting concept of “Always Carry A Book Tote.” If you bring your tote bag, you will get 10% off on your purchases. You’ll find some rare books here, including vintage copies of The Jungle Book, Poems of Emily Dickinson, and more.
The store has become a hub for the community, and it’s not uncommon to see people hanging out, chatting, and browsing the shelves for hours at a time. If you’re ever in Chicago, be sure to stop by Pilsen Community Books.
Location: 1102 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
Contact Number: +1 312-478-9434
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Women & Children First
As the name suggests, this one is a legendary feminist bookstore and is also on the list of best bookstores in Chicago. They have a fantastic collection of feminist and queer literature. This local shop has been around since 1975 and specializes in books by and about women and children’s literature.
They offer a wide selection of new and used titles, and their knowledgeable staff is always happy to help you find the perfect book. Whether you’re looking for the latest bestseller or a classic work of feminist literature, Women & Children First is sure to have what you’re looking for.
Location: 5233 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
Contact Number: +1 773-769-9299
RoscoeBooks
Former media sales mogul and owner of RoscoeBooks, Erika Vandam, decided to open this bookstore back in 2013. Finally, in March 2014, she was able to do so. You will find books of all genres here, including cookbooks, biographies, fiction, nonfiction, and more.
They also host regular events, like author readings and book club meetings, which makes RoscoeBooks the perfect place to socialize and connect with other bibliophiles in the city. So, if you wish to explore the best bookstores in Chicago, visit this place as well.
Location: 2142 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
Contact Number: +1 773-857-2676
Website: https://www.roscoebooks.com/
To Wrap Up
If you’re looking for the best bookstores in Chicago, look no further than this list. We’ve compiled a selection of the city’s most beloved independent booksellers, each with its unique atmosphere and offerings.
Whether you’re in the mood to browse new titles or find a cozy spot to curl up with a good book, these shops are sure to please. So next time you need a literary fix, pay one of these businesses a visit.
