There’s something relaxing about roaming the shelves in a bookstore, brushing up again real, live books. Not an eBook on your tablet or something you’ve purchased on your kindle. A bound book with pages, ink and a whole lot of character. In today’s day and age stepping inside a bookstore, let alone an independent bookstore, is a rare commodity. With so many titles available right at our fingertips, the practice of flipping pages seems to be almost extinct. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite bookstores in the Chicago area that still feel like the real deal. Browse rows upon rows of classic and contemporary favorites for the whole family!
Unabridged Bookstore
Open since 1980, Unabridged is known for its dedicated and knowledgeable staff and unparalleled sale book section. With an extensive collections of travel materials, fiction, poetry, and LGBT titles, Unabridged remains an iconic establishment in the Lakeview neighborhood. Check out their award-winning children’s section and let your imagination soar!
Sandmeyer’s Bookstore
Sandmeyer’s has been providing quality new books and unbeatable service to Chicago’s South Loop since 1982. Family-owned and operated, you can browse their new releases, travel guides, children’s books and so much more. Open everyday at 11AM til, you’ll always find something good at Sandmeyer’s Bookstore.
After-Words New and Used Books
As one- of the few independent bookstores left in Downtown Chicago, After-Words boasts two floors housing over 70,000 new and used books. Choose from a wide variety of cookbooks, photography books, local books, children’s books, poetry, and others. Their space is available for special events and parties and they can even help coordinate off site book readings.
City Lit Books
City Lit works to find that special book that changes the world around you, a book that helps you escape. Known for their curated lists of favorites by employees, City Lit is a newer bookstore on the scene. With free parking in the back and tons of book clubs to get involved in, it really is a book lover’s paradise!
Quimby’s Bookstore
If you’re looking for something a little bit uncommon and bizarre, Quimby’s is a great place to start. You’ll find independently-published and small press books, comics, zines and other rare finds. With varying hours Monday through Friday, you’re sure to find some of the latest but usual periodicals, assorted fancies, and anything else you can dream up!
[tweetthis]Do You Like To #Read Physical Books? Go Visit These Independent Bookstores If You Are In #Chicago![/tweetthis]
Chicago dwellers you are in luck with some of the top independent bookstores in the nation! Find the perfect picks for vacation, outside lounging or just another cozy read in bed. Not wanting to deal with the crowds at the bar on a Saturday night? Pick up some pizza, grab a great read, and snuggle up by the fire.