20 Bookstores In Chicago 🇺🇸

"Great bookstore with plenty of books spanning a range of genres and topics. It can be tight in some areas so you may need to wait your turn. There's an upstairs and downstairs with more/continued genres if you can't find something on the first floor."

"One of my favorite bookstores in Chicago! The books are usually new so they’re full price but they have a large sale section as well. But honestly what made me fall in love is the employee review of the book throughout the store! It’s one of my fav things about bookstores to see what other recommend across genres and Unabridged does it right! I absolutely recommend stopping in to check it out!"

"I can easily spend hours here, there are so many books and they’re organized so well so it’s easy to find what I’m looking for or interested in. The staff are friendly and helpful. The condition of the books are excellent and the prices are awesome. Most importantly though, they’re a non-profit and the proceeds go to supporting and promoting children’s literacy in underserved communities of Chicago! There are also a lot of volunteer opportunities with the organization, go check out their website! They also sell online! I love Open Books, I hope more people learn about them and support them!!"

"This place is awesome, they have a large selection of books. I enjoyed their current affairs section."

"Amazing place where you can get culture and entertainment getting into the store options , all books are there. Staff is so friendly and they know well about suggestions in case you are looking for a nice read. I totally recommend this book store."

"Omg. From outside it looks like a small book shop. But it’s actually like diagon valley. Once you enter you realise you have entered a whole new world of books. They have not one or two but 5 rooms where they display books according to the genre marked. Lori at the counter was very sweet. She actually left her seat and showed me around even helped me to look for my choice of books. She was treating every book lover with love n smile I was amazed n very happy to know of this world of books."

"So many books organized in great selections. Some are very cheap others more pricey."

"If you’re digging for Rock and Metal records visiting Chicago - this is THE place you don’t want to miss. Be sure to view the “just in” (unsorted) section - who knows what you’ll find. I saw all kinds of things here I had never seen before or not seen in years. They also have blues, pop, garage, indie, R&B and other genres, but the rock and metal are the largest collections. If you’re into horror and fantasy they also have movies and books and all the related things you would expect. Nice collection of metal band pins by the register for sale and other items too. You won’t leave here empty handed lol."

"There’s no other place like Quimby’s ❤️ amazing bookstore, really great for zines by small independent artists, comics and a large variety of small press. The selections varies and changes constantly but it’s always good and rare. You will find weird pieces and that’s the best. The staff it’s sooo nice. Definitely a safe space!"

"I love this bookstore, what a gem in the Pilsen community! There are so many books, and they’re very well-organized. There’s even a children’s section in the back of the store. Most of the books seem to be new or barely used. Today was Independent Bookstore Day so everything was 10% off, I got an awesome haul of books! The staff were also very friendly. I had a wonderful time here!"

"Good selection of books with customer recommendations tucked underneath the books. The staff were extremely helpful and kind. Good bookstore spot."

"Fabulous independent neighbourhood book store. Well curated selection, nice old school wooden floors atmosphere - I spent a good hour browsing here - how awesome 🤩"

"Super cool spot. Upon arriving, I had no clue where the entrance was. It was only when people came out of the building that I realized that was the entrance. Once inside, I was left in awe of the magnitude of the place. A huge old warehouse transformed into a book “store”? Absolutely amazing. REMEMBER, you put the price in the books, not the other way around. When I was here, the cashier tried to give me a price when it shouldn't be like that. Don't feel intimidated and pay whatever you think is fair.There’s also a Spanish section right by the entrance."

"I love this place!I live in Logan Square and I have never been there until last night when I dragged my friend to join me. I treated myself by buying a new pin, designed from a local, and some books that I’m just eager to read! The decor is amazing and Ramona, the husky, is the most sweetest pupper ever! Low quality pictures but great memories! The staff are amazing and offered great options! Highly recommend this place! Can’t wait to work there (if they hire) and be there more frequently!"

"This little bookstore is inside of a hospital campus - but immediately inside so totally fine to stop in. You will need a mask but they have them available at the main entrance. The staff was so helpful and friendly."

"Fantastic independent bookstore with very knowledgeable staff who can give helpful recommendations based on what you are looking for. Be sure to ask about the book club for deals. Great selection and a comfortable environment. High quality books. I was impressed by their children's and young adult book selection. They also post some good staff reviews on their shelves if you're looking for suggestions. Very fun place to shop!"

"With its impressive selection, well-organized layout, and outstanding customer service, this place truly shines. But what really makes it special is the inviting atmosphere it offers. While the pictures that you see in this listing give you a glimpse, you need to experience the ambiance firsthand to know what I mean. You'll find a variety of cozy seating areas throughout, perfect for enjoying a good read or leisurely browsing through books you're interested in. The knowledgeable and helpful staff adds to the charm, always ready to assist. And when it comes to prices, they go the extra mile, checking online to ensure you get the best deals available. I highly recommend visiting this place for a truly enjoyable book-hunting experience."

"Love the small time book store feel… warm, comforting and intellectual. I hope these types of stores return to be a part of our culture again … Amazon is good but easy to loose the feel of touching and sampling books in person"

"Love everything about this store. The staff was so friendly and kind. The book selection and shelfing is amazing. I will visit every Chicago trip"