Especially in our cold, windy winters, there’s no magic quite like getting lost in some good book stores. Hyde Park Chicago offers several excellent options. Whether you’re looking for a cut-and-dry book store or one where you can really get lost (literally), Hyde Park has what you’re seeking. And many of them of a quick walk from your Ivy Residences apartment! We can’t wait to share them with you below:
57TH STREET BOOKS
You may have heard of this book store because it’s often on travel lists sharing the best book stores or shops in the area. And 57th Street Books is certainly a staple in Hyde Park for good reason, too!
You’ll find this store at the corner of 57th St. and Kimbark. Head through the quaint entrance and make your way downstairs to an array of general interest titles: biographies, sci-fi, cookbooks, mysteries, and more. Navigating through the vast shop is a bit tricky–a true maze of shelves filled with books–but you’ll find anything you’re looking for, including a kid’s section and gift items.
SEMINARY CO-OP BOOKSTORE
Located right across the block from The University of Chicago, you’ll find Seminary Co-op. This store is the country’s premiere not-for-profit bookstore whose mission is selling books. Their director Jeff Deutsch says this choice “privileges cultural value over financial dividends…allowing us to invest in the browsing experience rather than overly concern ourselves with the vagaries of the market.”
Inside, you’ll find one of the largest collections of academic books in the world–pretty impressive! Keep in mind that their primary products are textbooks and academic literature. This makes it a great spot for required readings for next quarter, but not the best for finding that perfect gift for a friend or family member.
POWELL’S BOOKS
Love used books? You’ll love Powell’s on 55th St. This independent shop sells used books, mostly academic options and literary titles. It’s a perfect stop for students seeking affordable texts!
Inside is a no-frills shop with books aplenty, piled high from floor to ceiling. A great spot for required readings and perhaps a few older general interest titles.
DA BOOK JOINT
Support a woman-owned and Black-owned business by choosing Da Book Joint, a book source committed to literary growth and positive engagement of the youth.
Since 2007, Da Book Joint has been uniting readers with diverse African-American authors, both bestselling and on-the-rise names. The shop also offers virtual and in-person events. While the store has general interest titles for all ages, the impressive kids and youth sections help connect the future with diverse authors to promote representation in literacy.
DID WE MISS SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE BOOK STORES, HYDE PARK CHICAGO?
Let us know your favorites in the comments below!
