Best Book Stores in America

Chicago

City Lit Books

2523 N Kedzie Blvd, Chicago, IL 60647

Located in Logan Square, City Lit Books offers a cozy atmosphere with a great selection of contemporary fiction and various book clubs and author events.

Pilsen Community Books

1102 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608

An employee-owned bookstore in Pilsen that focuses on community-minded action, offering a variety of books and hosting fundraisers and events.

The Book Cellar

4736 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

A woman-owned bookstore in Lincoln Square, known for its selection of fiction and children's books, and a café serving wine and coffee.

Women & Children First

5233 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640

A feminist bookstore in Andersonville offering a diverse selection of books focused on women's and LGBTQIA+ literature, along with children’s books.

Unabridged Bookstore

3251 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657

Located in Lakeview, Unabridged Bookstore is known for its extensive children’s section, LGBTQ+ literature, and handwritten staff recommendations.

Open Books

651 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60661

A nonprofit bookstore with locations in West Loop and Pilsen, offering over 50,000 used and new books. Proceeds support literacy programs in the city.

Myopic Bookstore

1564 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

One of Chicago's oldest and largest used bookstores, Myopic Bookstore spans three floors and offers a vast collection of books from various genres.

Volumes Bookcafe

1373 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Owned by two book-loving sisters, this Wicker Park bookstore combines a well-stocked café with a large collection of literature, making it a community favorite.

Sandmeyer's Bookstore

714 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60605

A family-run bookstore in Printer’s Row, offering a mix of modern and classic literary masterpieces in a cozy atmosphere.

Quimby's Bookstore

1854 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

An independent bookstore specializing in independently published works, including zines, comics, and small press books.

For affordable used books check out