Photograph: Courtesy of New Book Joy
Shop the stacks for new and used titles, from non-fiction to fantasy, at the top independent bookstores in Chicago.
No matter the season, staying in and curling up with an exciting new book next to the fireplace is never a bad idea. Lucky for you, Chicago’s independent bookstore scene continues to grow larger and more diverse—both geographically and by topic. You can now find shops specializing in romance novels, ecology, theatre and so much more. Some of our top picks also double as coffee shops, making them the perfect places to spend an afternoon. So the next time you’re on the hunt for a page-turner, browse the stacks inside these well-read and well-loved Chicago bookstores.
Best bookstores in Chicago
This legendary used bookstore, one of Chicago’s oldest and largest, stocks three floors’ worth of books from floor to ceiling. Ask the friendly staff for recommendations, or choose your own adventure and wander the labyrinthine stacks to find your new favorite.
2. Semicolon Bookstore & Gallery
From the vibrant murals to the cozy kids’ section to the cafe, Danielle Mullen’s River West space is made for browsing, community building and taking your time. Browse the shop’s well-curated stacks or check out its regular schedule of events, which have included a dreamy Book Club Dinner Party, storytime with Time Out Market and a happy hour homage to the old Scholastic book fair. Plus, in addition to the store’s literacy-focused sister nonprofit, Parenthesis, Semicolon’s #ClearTheShelves program has given away seven-figures worth of books to Chicago Public Schools students.
A passionate reader and member of the community known as “romancelandia,” Amanda Anderson opened The Last Chapter, the newest bookstore on our list, in Roscoe Village in September of 2023. Romance lovers can pick up titles by popular authors like Sarah J. Maas and Jasmine Guillory, or browse by genre (sports, holiday, etc.), along with sections highlighting LGBTQ+ and BIPOC love stories. Before you leave, snap a selfie in one of the ‘gram-worthy photo booths, and even share the name of the fictional character you’re not-so-secretly pining for.
Chicago history is everywhere in this bookstore,
Get involved!
Comments