Bookstores in Midwestern United States
Last change:
27 Feb 2009
Bookstores in Chicago are in the Chicago file, and
Minneapolis/St. Paul are in the Central US file.
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Cities (listed geographically north-to-south, east-to-west) include:
northeast OH
Cleveland OH
Akron OH
Bowling Green OH
Columbus OH
Dayton OH
Cincinnati OH
KY
Toledo OH
Detroit MI (including Ann Arbor and other MI)
Indianapolis IN (and other Indiana)
Chicago IL (and other Illinois) (separate file)
Madison WI
Milwaukee WI
WI (other)
Comments
other geographic areas
[Note 1: This list includes cities in the midwestern United States (OH, KY,
MI, IN, and WI). Chicago is in its own file. Several other lists
for other geographic regions are in separate files. In particular,
Minneapolis/St. Paul are in their own file.]
[Note 2: I collected these comments from a variety of people. I personally
have no knowledge of many of these places and take no responsibility if you
buy a book you don't enjoy. :-) Phone numbers and precise addresses can be
gotten by calling directory assistance for the appropriate city. Call ahead
for precise hours, as even when I list them they are subject to change.]
[Note 3: If you can add information for any of these, in particular
addresses when they are missing, please send it to me. *PLEASE SPECIFY CITY
AND STATE.*]
[Note 4: Area codes change so quickly these days that these may be wrong.]
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northeast OH:
Book Nook (Warren Plaza, 2103 Elm Rd, Warren 44483, 330-372-3367.
The only large independent bookstore in northeast Ohio. "Very
fine bookstore."
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Cleveland OH:
B. Dalton (Great Northern Mall, Great Northern exit of I-71, North
Olmsted; Middleburg Plaza, 7232 Pearl Rd at Bagley, Middleburg
Heights; Parmatown Mall, Parma; Beachwood Place Mall).
Barnes & Noble Bookstore (Mayfield Road a bit west of I-271,
216-473-1040; Richmond Town Mall, 691 Richmond Rd, Richmond
Heights). Your standard B&N superstores.
Body Language Bookstore (3291 W 115th, 216-251-3330). Gay/lesbian/
bisexual.
Bookstore on West 25th (six steps down from the West Side Market).
Used and new. The kind of place where the best finds are in
the stacks lying on the floor waiting to be shelved. Best
theatre section of any non-chain bookstore in the area. Good
lesbian/gay/bisexual section too.
Borders Book Shop (LaPlace at Beachwood Place, 216-292-2660; Crocker
and Detroit Roads, Promenade of Westlake shopping center,
Westlake, 216-892-7667 for books and 216-892-7668 for music;
17200 Royalton Rd, across the street from South Park shopping
center, just off of I-71, Strongsville; 6025 Kruse Dr, just
off of route 422, Solon). Standard superstores.
Borders Outlet (4650 Great Northern Blvd, one block north of Great
Northern mall, North Olmsted, ). A random assortment of
overstock at good prices. Not great for fiction (hard to find
any one particular book) but has a good collection of art,
science, and nature books.
Brentano's Bookstore (The Galleria, 216-621-7544). Typical Brentano's
Bookstore, but the only one in Cleveland.
City Books Inc. (1854 Coventry Rd, 44118, 216-321-0800).
Delphic Books (1793 Coventry Rd, 44118, 216-321-8106).
Cleveland State University Bookstore (2400 Euclid Avenue at CSU). A
B&N bookstore. They have a lot of textbooks you wouldn't find
at the B&N superstores, but their selection of non-textbooks
is a pale imitation of what you'll find at those stores.
Doubleday Book Shop (The Avenue, 216-621-6880). Typical Doubleday
Book Shop, but the only one in Cleveland.
The Flying Lemur (13743 Madison, Lakewood, 216-221-2535).
Self-described as "Strange and unusual books ... Cleveland's
most unusual bookstore. It had to happen, finally a cool
place to hang out in Cleveland. The Lemur promises to have
the most unique selection of books in Cleveland ... and
possibly the U.S. Want to know how to take over your own
country? How to make a living donating yourself to science?
... and a giant flying lemur. Poetry, sex, violence, drugs,
we got it all. Come check out our new fun-fur chairs. And
... in-store piercing by body piercer Scott Patterson, with
over 5 years experience and just an all around great guy.
Clean, safe, professional, We would settle for nothing less.
Come in and see his portfollio and he'll be glad to answer any
questions you may have. He also be just as eager to discuss
the meaning of life and the existence of God. So come in and
check us out. Have a sojo soda or some Sioux City sarsparilla
from the cow fridge. (Sorry no Big-K ... yet.)" [I hope
someone locally can give me a more coherent description.]
Half Price Books (Warrensville and Van Aken Boulevards). Chain of
half-price new and used books is a godsend. "Not your average
superstore outlet but really great finds at unbeatable prices,
even at half price, I can't help but spend $50 each time I
go. The favorite bookstore of all my college-age friends who
can't afford splurges at Borders or Booksellers."
John Wallace Skinner's Americana (Caxton Bldg., downtown). Not too
impressive in the way of vintage books, but a neat collection
of art, posters, and stuff that this very interesting man has
collected over a lifetime. You may be the only person in his
little emporium all day. Go just for the conversation.
John Zubal (2969 W 25th, 44113, 216-241-7640, http://www.zubalbooks.com).
"A warehouse of rare and collectible books. Pricey, but what
do you expect?" [06/07]
Joseph Beth Bookseller (Shaker Square, Cleveland Heights). New in 2001.
An enormous store with an associated kid's store ("Joseph Beth
Kids") and a cafe. Staff is very knowledgable about books.
K&M Books (Shaker Towne Centre, 16969 Chagrin Blvd, Shaker Hts., 44120,
216-283-1647). New books.
Macs Backs Paperbacks (1820 Coventry Rd). It has a few new books and
a lot of used paperbacks (and a few used hardbacks). All
genres of fiction. Occasional events such as poetry readings
are held there, and a lot are advertised there.
Old Erie Street Bookstore.
Six Steps Down.
Three Ninety-Seven Bookshop (1127 Euclid Ave, 216-781-1666). Used
hardbacks, all $3.97. Open Mon-Fri 10:30AM-3PM.
Visible Voice Books (1023 Kenilworth Ave, 44113, 216-961-0084,
http://www.84cc.com). Used books. Open
Tue-Thu 2PM-9PM, Fri 2PM-10PM, Sat 12N-10PM, Sun 10AM-7PM. [10/07]
Waldenbooks (Great Northern Mall, Great Northern exit of I-71, North
Olmsted).
Oberlin OH:
Miranda Books (19 S Main, Oberlin, OH 44074, 216-775-1296).
Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat 10AM-6PM; Tue, Thu 10AM-8PM; Sun 1PM-5PM.
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Akron OH:
The Bookseller, Inc. (39 Westgate Cir, 44313, 330-865-5831, FAX
330-865-5851, http://www.thebooksellerinc.com). Used and
rare book store which has been in Akron since 1948.
Open Mon-Sat 10AM-6PM, Sun 1PM-5PM. [09/07]
Barnes & Noble (4015 Medina Road, close to Rt. 77). "A two-story
store with a cafe; the staff that I have met are very
friendly."
Borders (3737 W Market, the Montrose area; Medina Rd). "It is
fashionable to bemoan the loss of independents but in this
case Borders is offering very good service to customers, has
a great selection, and has been a hit here since day one. The
staff is excellent."
Buckeye Bookshop (795 Brittian Rd, 44305, 216-794-2455,
http://www.buckeyebookshop.com). General sed and rare; also has
paperbacks. Open Mon-Sat 11AM-6PM. [09/07]
Snowball Bookshop (564 W Tuscarawas Ave, Barberton, 44203, 330-745-9292,
http://www.snowballbooks.com). "General Stock of 100,000+
hardcover and paperback books." Open Mon-Wed 10AM-6PM, Thu-Fri
10AM-7PM, Sat 10AM-5PM. [09/07]
The complete list of dealer members of the Northern Ohio Bibliophilic
Society (located in many states) may be viewed at http://www.nobsweb.org/.
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Bowling Green OH:
Grounds for Thought (174 South Main, 419-354-3266). Coffee shop (they roast
their own!) and used bookshop. They specialize in used paperbacks
and their strong sections (titles) are Sf, mysteries, social
sciences, and psychology. Some first editions are available. They
welcome inquiries and they offer their stock of new titles at
typically 15% off cover price and will do book orders. The general
manager, Louie Staeble, is an avid bibliophile and a great joy to
chat with.
Pauper's Books (206 North Main, 419-352-2163). Leo Schifferli, the owner,
has amassed a huge collection of used paperback and hardcover books
that literally fills every available space in the shop. He has a
vast selection in just about every category imaginable and welcomes
inquiries. Leo offers a 10% discount on most new books and orders
and special orders are always welcome. Pauper's is also the place
for "strange change" as Leo is in the habit of making change on
customer's purchases with $2 bills and Susan B. Anthony $1 coins.
Of course, Bowling Green also has the standard Walden Books at the local
mall as well as a branch of SBX (Student Book Exchange), Bee Gee Bookstore
(no it isn't a bookstore dedicated to the Brothers Gibb) and the BGSU
Campus Bookstore. SBX and Bee Gee Bookstore are primarily new and used
textbooks.
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Columbus OH:
Acorn Bookshop (1464 West Fifth Ave, 614-486-1860). Stuart Wheeler has a
good-sized clean collection of used books. Very fairly priced and
there is no junk there at all. The shop is low-key and friendly.
All subjects.
Barnes & Noble (3280 Tremont Rd, 614-459-0920; 3685 W Dublin-Granville Rd,
Dublin, 614-798-0077; 5160 E. Main, Whitehall, 614-863-3050)
Beechwold Books (19 Westwood Rd, 614-268-4004). Used books.
Book Harbor (32 W. College Ave, Westerville 614-895-3788). Used books.
Book Loft of German Village (631 S Third, 614-464-1774). A 500,000+ volume
new book store. Open Sun-Sat 10AM-10PM or longer.
The Book Rack (5346 North High, 614-846-0036). Used paperbacks.
Book Stops Here (3760 Snouffer Rd, Worthington 614-789-9495). Used books.
Bookphil Out & Print & Signed (3987 Main, Hilliard 614-876-0442). Used
books.
Books On High (3510 N High, 614-267-7774). "Former site of Roy Willis
Bookseller, now a joint operation run as a sort of satellite site for
several booksellers, which I believe includes Roy Willis. Books on
books, good SF selection, prices a little higher than I would like."
The Bookworm (?) (on Woodruff, right off N High). "Located in the basement
of a church, this place is open only two days a week, Wednesdays and
Thursdays from 10-2, I think. Small place--small selection of
stuff--usually the same stuff--but they have the books arranged in
neat subjects like "Dog Stories" and "Occult." Plus, older women
sit and run the place and it's interesting to hear them converse
with each other. I have found some very good books here that cost
only 25 or 50 cents."
Borders Books & Music (4545 Kenny Rd, 614-451-2292). Has a coffee shop.
The British Papermill (5891 Scarborough Mall, Brice Road and I-70,
614-577-0220, 614-491-1128). Collector cards (especially SF),
comics, used magazines of SF nature. Lots of (non-sport) collector
cards. Will take toy soldiers in trade. SF odds and ends (e.g.,
Daleks are next to ALF trading cards).
Chabad Torah Center (between Gould and Broadleigh on the north side of
Broad) Jewish and Judaica. It carries a fair amount of children's
books and a small selection of sforim.
Chene's Bookstore (1272 Hunter Ave, lchene@infinet.com, 614-299-2440).
Jewish and Judaica. Phone orders or hours by appointment.
Cover to Cover (3560 North High, 614-263-1324). "Children's books.
WONDERFUL!"
Discount Paperback Center (1646 N High). A very small place in the bottom
of a building. "There's nothing really great about this place, but
one will find always find what they are looking for in the oddest
of places. This place has old books, comic books, and some new
books. The type of store to check out every six months or so...."
Fireside Book Company, 503 City Park Ave, 614-621-1928,
fireside@infinet.com). General stock used and antiquarian books
with an emphasis on modern literature, travel/adventure narratives,
cookery, general history and poetry. Also in-print and out-of-print
sheet music, vintage postcards and prints, antique book ends, a
search service and "darn good free coffee" (according to them). The
stock is 14,000+ volumes and growing, with a quick turnover. "We
are most willing to check our stacks for folks who contact us via
email." Will mail a map of Columbus used and antiquarian books
dealers if you send them an SASE. Open Tue-Sat 11AM-9PM, Sun
12N-5PM.
Fly-By-Night (2275 North High, 614-299-7930). New books.
Foul Play Mystery Book Store (27 E College Ave, Westerville, 614-818-2583).
Mysteries, obviously.
Gentle Wind (4695 Morse Rd, Gahanna, 614-471-2281). New books.
Half-Price Books-Records-Magazines (1375 W Lane Ave, 614-486-8765; Carriage
Place, Bethal Rd & Sawmill Rd, 614-457-6333; Brice Park, Brice Rd &
Tussing, 614-755-4110). "Personally, I think that this chain is the
best idea anyone ever came up with. I love this book store over all.
There are thousands of used paperbacks, all in good or better
condition, sorted alphabetically by author. All sell for half of the
cover price. This means that you can sometimes find several editions
of the same book, with cover prices ranging from $2.95 up to $5.99!
(I wisely purchase the same book with the lower cover price...)"
Hoffman's Book Shop (211 Arcadia Ave, 614-267-0203,
http://www.hoffmansbookshop.com). Used books. "Specializes
in Ohioana, stock is not alphabetized (or fiction separated by
genre? Not positive on this point, it's been a while since I've
been in there, but that's been a problem in past.) Fun if you
enjoy the hunt."
The Laughing Ogre (4258 N High near Cooke, 43214-3048, 614-267-6473).
Mostly comic-related material but quite a few anime and comic-related
paperbacks and trade paperbacks. They also have some action
figures and nonsport gum cards. "A very cooperative and friendly
shop with many alternative comic books."
Leyshon's (614-262-6120). Used railroading books.
Little Professor Book Co. (1657 W Lane Ave, 614-486-5238; Worthington
Mall, 614-846-4319). General stock, excellent magazine selection.
Long's Book Store (1836 N High). "This store is mainly visited by the
freshmen crowd. Somewhere between the textbooks and the OSU
t-shirts, there apparently are some regular books. As a personal
rule, I avoid this place, probably because I don't like putting my
bookbag in their little lockers."
The Map Store (5821 Karric Sq, Dublin, 614-792-6277). Travel books.
Monkey's Retreat (1190 North High, 614-294-9511. "Their ads describe their
stock as 'comix, mags, martial arts, art, beat lit, erotica, health,
occult' - a weird and wonderful assortment of things. If you're
looking for something unusual, this is the place.."
An Open Book (761 N High, 43215-1425). Gay/lesbian/bisexual literature,
cards, etc. "The largest gay/lesbian/bisexual bookstore in central
Ohio."
Paperback Exchange (4866 W Broad, 614-878-1307). "Exactly what it sounds
like. Reading copies only, occasional fun finds."
Pearls of Wisdom (3522 North High, 614-262-0146). Metaphysical.
Phoenix Books Ltd. (3110 North High, 614-268-3100,
http://www.phoenixbooksltd.com). New books.
Publishers Outlet of Columbus (5749 Brice Outlet Mall, east side, off
Scarborough Blvd, 614-866-6235). Branch of Village Bookshop.
Rainbow Bookstore (772 N High, Suite 103, 614-297-1500. Gay/lesbian/bisexual
literature.
SBX (1805 N High). "In addition to textbooks, they also have "regular"
books. A while ago, they used to have a lot of these regular books,
but then someone determined they were losing money that way so they
got rid of many of them. Still, they have new releases and an okay
selection of stuff - but their stock decreases every second."
The ShadowRealm (3347 North High, 614-262-1175). New books.
Thurber Country (77 Jefferson Ave, 614-464-1082). "Housed in James
Thurber's boyhood home (now a museum) amid a circle of historical
buildings. Primarily Thurber's works (obviously), although
selections from many other authors, including past and current
writers-in-residence."
Village Bookshop (2424 W Dublin-Granville in Worthington, 614-889-2674).
Remainders of all kinds. Two rooms of used books, rest
remainders. "About half the staff know where things are; the
other half are cashiers only. There are books piled everywhere
in this ex-church. Good prices, especially for books with
artwork. Damaged books section. polite staff, non-intrusive.
Comfortable chairs to rest and read in. Shelves not
alphabetized." See also Publilshers Outlet.
Wexner Center Bookstore (in the Wexner Center). A large assortment of
new art books, including contemporary art books from outside the
US.
Karen Wickliff Books (2579 N High). "Many used books--most look like
they've been sitting there for quite a while."
Zodiac Bookstore (1565 Alum Creek Dr, 614-252-0281). An adult bookstore.
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Dayton OH:
Blue Jacket Books (60 S Detroit, Xenia, 45385, 937-376-3522,
http://www.bluejacketbooks.com). Mostly used, some new gift and
local interest books. Open Tue-Thu, Sat 10AM-6PM, Fri 10AM-7PM.
Books & Co. (350 E Stroop Rd, in the Town and Country Shopping Center in
the center of Kettering, 513-298-6540, 800-777-4881,
FAX 513-298-7895). "Wide selection of books, very large
children's section, business and computer book rooms, obscure
titles and authors, workers' recommendation shelves in several
topical areas, an in-store cafe serving desserts and gourmet
coffees, childrens reading hours on weekends, average of eight
acoustic music shows a month, special readings by guest authors,
special events like cooking, magic, kid's summer reading program,
couple's night, several book signing events with talks by the
authors each month,art exhibits, seminars. All in all an
excellent place to spend an entire day, days even! Sorry to run
on, but this is a *great* bookstore with one of the most competent
staffs I have seen in many years." Open Mon-Sat 9AM-9PM,
Sun 9AM-6PM.
Dark Star Books (Xenia Ave, Yellow Springs, 937-767-9400). "A tremendous
selection of SF with very knowledgeable staff, plus comics and
good general stock."
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Cincinnati OH:
Acres of Books (owner is presently looking for a new location). Mostly
humanities, social science. Some nice 19th Century stuff (when
Cincinnati was a major publishing town). Slightly pricey.
Aquarius Bookshop (831 Main, 513-721-5193). Native American.
Armchair Adventures (1545 1/2 Scott, Covington KY, 606-261-6345). Used and
antiquarian. Open Wed and Sat 2PM-6PM; other hours by chance or
appointment.
Barnes & Noble (7727 Kenwood Road, across from Kenwood Town Centre,
513-984-9599; Hyde Park Plaza). Open Mon-Sat 9AM-11PM, Sun
11:30AM-9PM.
Blue Marble (3054 Madison Rd, Oakley, on the square, 513-731-2665).
Children's books. Open Mon-Fri 10AM-8PM, Sat 10AM-5PM, Sun 12N-4PM.
Book Inn (4011 Allston, Oakley Sq, 513-631-4079). Used and antiquarian.
Open Mon and Wed 12N-5PM, Tue, Thu, and Sat 1PM-9:30PM, Sun 1PM-6PM.
Books & Co. (Town & Country Shopping Center, 350 E. Stroop Rd at Far Hills,
513-298-6540 or 800-7770-4881). Ten thousand titles (not books!),
lots of everything. Call to place order (no charge). Mon-Sat
9AM-9PM daily (until 11PM Fri & Sat during the summer), Sun 9AM-6PM.
(Take 75 north to 675 north. Exit 4B (Rt48 north) then north on 48
(Far Hills) about four miles to the Town & Country Shopping Center
(on right). Exit 4 is a double exit, the first one puts you on Alex
Bell (St Rt 725), the second on northbound 48. 725 connects to 48,
so if you take the wrong one it's no big deal.)
Borders (across from TriCounty Mall at Kemper Road and Princeton Road).
Brentano's Bookstore (Tower Place, 513-723-9656). Open Mon-Sat
10AM-9PM, Sun 12N-6PM. [04/06]
Children's Bookery (1175 Smiley Ave, Forest Park, 513-742-8822). Open
Mon-Sat 10AM-8:30PM, SUn 12N-5PM.
Contemporary Arts Center Bookstore (115 East Fifth Street, 513-241-4428).
Art books, unusual gifts, prints, and craft items. Open Mon-Sat
10:30AM-5:30PM, Sun 1PM-5PM.
DuBois Book Store (321 Calhoun, Clifton, 513-281-4120). New and used
textbooks.
Dust Jacket (3200 Lindwood Ave, 513-871-4224). Used and antiquarian. Open
Mon and Sat 12N-5PM, Wed and Thu 1PM-8PM,Fri 10AM-3PM.
Duttenhofer's Books and News (214 W McMillan, Clifton 45219, 513-381-1340).
Used books and antiquarian. Large SF and mystery sections
When I was there, it had the best selection of used books in French
I had ever seen (though they said this was unusual). This and
Kaldi's are "must-visit"s for book lovers. Open Mon-Fri 10AM-9PM,
Sat-Sun 8:30AM-7PM.
For the Love of Books (4331 Winston Ave in Latonia Center, Covington KY
41015, 606-261-5515). Used books. Large SF, horror, and mystery
sections.
Half Price Books (8118 Montgomery Road, Kenwood; 11389 Princeton Road,
Springdale, 513-772-1511). Used and remainders, good prices. Open
Mon-Sat 10AM-10PM, Sun 11AM-7PM.
Joseph-Beth Bookstore (Rookwood Plaza at Madison and Edwards, Norwood,
http://www.josephbeth.com/). A family-owned mega-store
that started in Lexington KY.
Kaldi's Bookstore and Coffeeshop (1204 Main Street, 513-241-3070). Used
books, coffee, sandwiches in the up-and-coming Main Street Art
District. Good paperback SF and mystery sections. Entertainment on
weekend evenings. This and Duttenhofer's are "must-visit"s for book
lovers. Open Mon 10AM-2:30PM, Tue-Thu 10AM-1AM, Fri-Sat 10AM-2AM,
Sun 10AM-12M.
Little Professor Bookstore (Forest Fair Mall [NW side of the city, on
outerbelt], 513-671-9797; Montgomery Square Mall [where I-71 crosses
Montgomery Rd]). Worth mentioning due to their sheer size and
because they sell used library books. Open Mon-Sat 10AM-9PM, Sun
12N-5PM.
McMicken Street Book Store (454 W McMicken, 513-621-4865). An incredible
used bookstore. Four stories of books in an old row house. Low
prices, homey atmosphere, interesting owner (have him give you a
brief tour of the layout your first time), relaxing music, easy to
have the afternoon slip by. Don't let the neighborhood scare you.
Open Thu 4PM-6PM, Sat 1PM-6PM, Sun 12N-4PM (but always call for
current hours--they change frequently).
Milford Emporium (200 Main, Milford, 513-248-1864). Used and antiquarian.
Open Mon, Tue, Thu-Sat 11AM-5PM (closed Wed and Sat).
New World Bookshop (336 Ludlow Avenue, Clifton, 513-861-6100).
Specializing in small press, new age, fiction, poetry, and art.
Also sells Birkenstocks, cards, and cassette tapes. Open Mon-Thu
10AM-9PM, Fri-Sat 10AM-10PM, Sun 12N-6PM.
Ohio Book Store, Inc. (726 Main, 513-821-5142). Five floors of used books.
Great history section. They also do book binding. A good store to
browse in. Open Mon-Sat 9AM-4:45PM.
Phantasy Emporium (117 Calhoun, Clifton, 513-281-0606). New and used
SF and comics.
Queen City Books (39 E 7th, 513-721-2116). Small, but surprisingly
literary selection.
Seven Hills Books (49 Central, 513-851-6030).
Significant Books & Stamps (3053 Madison Rd, Oakley Sq, 513-321-7567). Used
and antiquarian. Open Tue and Thur 12N-9PM, Mon, Fri, and Sat
12N-6PM.
T & S Books (1545 Scott, Covington KY, 606-261-6435). Used and antiquarian.
Open Tue and Sat 10AM-5PM, Wed and Fri 10AM-8PM, Thu 10AM-6PM,
Sun 12N-5PM (closed Mon).
Willisonian Institute (1609 Chase Ave, 513-542-5231). Used and antiquarian.
Open Wed-Fri 1PM-6PM.
Brentano's in Tower Place, the Contemporary Arts Center Bookstore, Kaldi's,
the Ohio Book Store, and Queen City Books, are within walking distance of
the convention center.
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KY:
Louisville:
All Booked Up (1555 Bardstown Rd south of Eastern Parkway,
502-459-6348). "Tends to be a little costlier than Twice Told
Books." It is also almost entirely hardbacks. There is a $1
table outside that often has some finds. Open Tue-Sat
10AM-6PM, Sun 12N-5PM. [06/03]
Book & Music Exchange (1616 Bardstown Rd south of Eastern Parkway,
502-454-3328; also other locations). Seems to have a lot of
books, but doesn't really, and the SF is divided between SF
and best sellers--at opposite ends of the store! Still, if
you're in the area, it's worth a stop. Open Mon-Thu 10AM-10PM,
Fri-sat 10AM-12M, Sun 12N-8PM. [06/03]
Borders (formerly Hawley Cooke Booksellers) (Gardiner Shopping Center,
Bardstown Road north of I-264, 502-456-6660; also other
locations). The following description is from when it was
Hawley Cooke: "Larger mid-sized stores (not much smaller than
Joseph-Beth). One of Hawley Cooke's hallmarks is a very fine
periodical section. Lots of newspapers from around the
country, foreign language magazines and newspapers--you can
often find DER SPIEGEL and DIE ZEIT, as well as French and
Spanish mags. Hawley Cooke has a very good balance between
fiction and non-fiction. Very strong new release section, has
some depth, not just the New York Times bestseller list. On
the history/political science end, I would say that Hawley
Cooke is competitive with DC stores. ... During my various
stints at Fort Knox, Hawley Cooke has kept me tied in with the
disciplines, though. Its offerings tend to be oriented on
academic fare, rather than policy analysis or "popular"
history. Hawley Cooke knows the books the Louisville elite
"needs" to read to compete intellectually with the really big
cities, and stocks its shelves accordingly. Nice childrens'
section; they do storytelling on Saturdays." One reader says,
"Thus far the biggest change in the two former H-C stores has
been, to my observation, downgrading the used book section and
expanding the DVD section. They have expanded the Local
Material section and moved it to the front of the store."
[10/03]
A Reader's Corner (115 Wiltshire Ave, St. Matthews suburb, 40207, 502-897-5578,
http://www.Areaderscorner.com). Used books. Open Mon-Sat
10AM-6PM.
Thousand and One Paperbacks (7405 Fegenbush Ln, off of Outer Loop,
502-239-7224). Used paperbacks. More than a thousand and
one, but after you discount the romance novels, there's not a
big selection. Prices reasonable, though. Open Mon-Fri
10AM-6PM, Sat 10AM-5PM. [06/03]
Twice Told Books (1578 Bardstown Rd south of Eastern Parkway,
502-458-7420, twicetol@iglou.com). They have a good collection of
fiction and other topics. Has paperbacks, unlike All Booked Up.
Categories not always well labeled. [06/03]
The main concentration of used bookstores (and good ethnic
restaurants) seems to be on Bardstown Road south of Eastern Parkway.
There are also a few used music shops, etc., in that area.
Other KY:
Hallmark Store (Lincoln Trail, Radcliffe). "Has a really excellent set of
offerings in the area of military history (Radcliffe is just outside
Fort Knox). It is almost as good as Sidney Kramer in this area,
which of course is the highest level of praise I can render to a
commercial non-fiction store. It doesn't come up to the Pentagon
Book Store, but does give the Armor School Bookstore (in the "little
PX" back of Boudinot Hall) a run for its money."
Joseph-Beth Booksellers (Lexington Green Mall, 3319 Nicholasville Road,
Lexington KY, 606-273-3911, in KY 800-248-6849,
http://www.josephbeth.com/). "Kentucky's largest bookstore,
Joseph-Beth stocks in excess of 130,000 titles. In addition, they
incorporate a travel agency office in their travel books section and
a cafe next to their cookbook section. They also boast a fairly
large classical music on CD section. Special services include mail
order and frequent autographings." Featured in an article in
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY 20 May 1996.
(See also Cincinnati OH listings for stores in Covington KY.)
============================================================================
------------------------------
Toledo OH:
Frogtown Books (2131 N Reynolds, 43615, 419-531-8101, FAX 419-531-8139,
http://www.frogtownbooks.com). Used books. "Frogtown is a
bibliophile's paradise. Huge selection of both inexpensive
paperbacks and good quality hardcovers, incredible
collectibles (with a speciality in Edgar Rice Burroughs)
including prints, autographs and other ephemera, extremely
knowledgeable staff." Open Mon-Sat 10AM-7PM. [06/07]
Thackeray's Books (in Westgate Village Shopping Center, at the corner of
Central and Secor, 419-537-9259). "A quite nice bookstore in one
of the outer parts of Toledo, Thackeray's has a pretty good
selection of all book categories, and will do special orders. Their
computer and travel sections are excellent; the store even carries
some shareware. Thackeray's offers a 30% discount on books on the
New York Times bestsellers list, and usually has some rather good
discount deals on books in the front of the store. Also has a
decent magazine section and carries some out-of-state newspapers
(NYT, Washington Post, Chicago Tribune). Their ad says "Toledo's
most complete bookstore", and they do their best to live up to
that."
============================================================================
------------------------------
Detroit MI (including Ann Arbor and other MI):
Barnes & Noble (NE corner of Rochester Rd and Auburn, Rochester).
Also a full-service store, and is also excellent, but not up
to Borders' standard. The first "super-store."
The "Big Book Store" (5911 Cass Ave, 48202, 313-831-8511). Brankch of
John K. King. On the campus of Wayne State University.
Comics, magazines, paperbacks. Open Tue-Sat 9:30AM-5:30PM.
Borders Book Shop (31150 Southfield Rd at 13 Mile, Birmingham; Novi
Town Center, on the south side of I-96 at the Novi Rd exit,
just west of the I-275/I-696 interchange; 4590 Utica Park
Blvd, at Van Dyke Highway and Hall Road (20-mile), Utica,
810-726-8555). Superstores. Open Mon-Thu 9AM-10PM; Fri-Sat
9AM-11PM; Sun 11AM-8PM.
John K. King Books (901 W Lafayette @ Lodge Fwy, 48226, 313-961-0622,
http://www.rarebooklink.com/cgi-bin/kingbooks/index.html).
The largest bookstore in Michigan sells only used books. A
four-story warehouse with a million books. "A
bibliophile's wet dream come true. [Inexpensive] hardcovers.
Also has many large collections of matching sets
(encyclopedias, DIY collections, classics, etc.) Magazines
and records too. (In fact, they even have a room with some
antique collectibles.) If you're in town for a conference,
this is the place to go when you decide to skip the keynote
address. Walking distance (although a bit long) from Cobo
Convention Center. Free parking. Open Mon-Sat 9:30AM-5:30PM.
[06/07]
John K. King Books North, 22524 Woodward Ave, 2-1/2 blocks south of
9 Mile Rd, Ferndale, 48220, 248-548-9050). Branch store with
60,000 books. "This store seems to carry lots of hardcover
classics that would appeal to the more timid suburbanites who
have forgotten their flak jackets and don't want to go to
Detroit. (But the *big* store is worth the trip.)" Open
Mon-Fri 11AM-7PM, Sat 10AM-6PM, Sun 12N-5PM.
Waldenbooks (Plymouth Rd between Merriman and Middlebelt, Livonia).
Ann Arbor MI:
Aunt Agatha's Bookshop (213 South Fourth Ave, 734-769-1114).
Specializing in mysteries and crime fiction.
Barnes & Noble (3245 Washtenaw at Huron Parkway, 734-677-6475).
Superstore.
Books in General (322 South State, 734-769-1250). The best store in
town for used technical books. It's a second floor space with
a very small sign.
Borders (612 E Liberty, 734-668-7652). "Better than the Birmingham
store for academic titles, and does have the best foreign
language section of all the Borders." Though not in its original
location, this store must be considered the original Borders.
Borders (3527 Washtenaw, Arborland Mall at Washtenaw Ave & US-23,
734-677-6948). "Smaller than the original downtown, it's less
crowded, less segregated (there are no internal walls
separating cafe from cd store from the rest of the bookstore),
and less interesting than the original. Feels more like
another Waldenbooks or B&N." [10/03]
Crazy Wisdom (114 S Main, btwn Huron & Washington, 734-665-2757,
http://www.crazywisdom.net). Specializing in New Age and
religious books.
David's Books (516-B E William, 48104, 734-665-8017). Used books.
[06/07]
Dawn Treader (514 E Liberty, 734-995-1008,
http://www.dawntreaderbooks.com). Used books. They have
75,000 books, including 10,000 SF and fantasy books, ranging
from mass market to first editions. Also have strong
collections in travel and exploration, humanities, math and
science, and early printing. (When I last checked, they had a
fourteenth century manuscript of Aristotle, a fifteenth
century edition of the history of Alexander the Great, and an
uncorrected proof of Mick Farren's new Vampire novel.) "An
absolutely fabulous shop, with something for everyone..."
Open Mon-Thu 11AM-8PM, Fri-Sat 11AM-9PM, Sun 12N-6PM. [06/07]
Mail Order Mysteries (1313 Henry, 48104-4405, 734-665-5813,
FAX 734-665-7775). Used mysteries.
Nicola's Books (Stadium and Maple in Westgate shopping center). "A
Little Professor Book Store." Yet another superstore. One of
the two best newsstands in town. Has armchairs and a fireplace
in the back of the store.
Shaman Drum Bookshop (313 South State, 734-662-7407). Specializing in
books about the humanities. Two street-level storefronts as
well as its original second-floor location, now devoted to the
textbook business, while the ground-floor level deals with the
usual humanities specialty books.
West Side Book Shop (113 W Liberty, 734-995-1891). Used and rare
books, maps.
Hillsdale MI:
Volume I Books (517-437-398-6717, http://www.volume1books.com). Used
bookstore in historic downtown Hillsdale. "Paperback exchange
to antiquarian items; emphasis on non-fiction, politics from
left to right and ephemera, including old maps, menus, and
photographs." Open Mon-Sat 10AM-6PM. [08/08]
Niles MI:
Andrews & Rose Booksellers (105 East Main, 616-683-4251). General
used and out-of-print. Mon-Sat 12N-6PM.
Casperson Books (1303 Niles-Buchanan Rd, 616-683-2888). General
stock. Wed, Sat, Sun 9AM-7PM and by appt.
"Ann Arbor now has major bookstores near every part of town. Downtown
has Borders and Community Newscenter. Little Professor is on the west
side of town, Barnes and Noble on the east, and Websters on the north.
Those on the south side have to make do with Borders, Doubleday, and
Waldenbooks. :-)"
Someone else reports that they read somewhere recently the statistic that
Ann Arbor has five times the national average of bookstores per capita.
Also, Windsor, Ontario, is right across the border from Detroit, and
bookstores in Canada carry British editions of books that are
unavailable in the US. You can get to Windsor from downtown Detroit by
taking the tunnel bus, which runs every half hour and costs $1.50 [as of
some unspecified date]. You have to pass through customs so be sure to
bring some ID. All of these bookstores are within easy walking distance
of the bus stop at the tunnel exit. See the "Bookstores in Eastern Canada
Cities" list for details.
============================================================================
------------------------------
Indianapolis IN (and other Indiana):
The Abstract (4850 W Mooresville Rd, 317-856-3710). General stock.
Tue 10AM-6PM, Sun 1PM-4PM and by appt.
Books, Antiques & More (1048 Virginia Ave, 317-636-1595). Books, postcards,
prints. Mon-Sat 10AM-6PM, Sun 12N-5PM.
Borders Bookshop (5612 Castleton Corner Lane, 317-849-8660). Typical
superstore. See the Detroit/Ann Arbor listing for a description of
the test the staff has to pass.
Broad Ripple Book Store (6407 Ferguson, 317-259-1980). Americana, art,
Indiana, natural history, philosophy. Tue-Fri 11AM-6PM,
Sat 11AM-5PM.
Circle City Antiquarian Books (45 South Franklin Rd, 46210, 317-898-1724).
Antiquarian books. Open Mon, Tue, Thu-Sat 11AM-6PM.
Half-Price Books (8316 Castleton Corner Dr, not far off I-465, and two other
locations). Used and remaindered. "I've not bought any books on
criticism there, but I have picked up some copies of Greek classics,
contemporary American and British fiction, etc. It's worth a look."
Murder and Mayhem (6412 Carrollton Ave, 317-254-8273). Mysteries, one
presumes.
Odds & Eads Booksellers (1127 Prospect, 317-635-2583). General stock.
Sat 10AM-5PM and by appt.
Van Buskirk Books (5432 University Ave). Used books.
Bloomington IN:
Barnes & Noble
Borders
Caveat Emptor Books (112 N Walnut, 812-332-9995). [Not a name *I* would
pick for a store!] Mon-Sat 10AM-10PM, Sun 12N-6PM.
Hobart IN:
A Latte Books & Music (206 Main, 46342). Used books.
South Bend, IN:
Erasmus Books (1027 East Wayne, 219-232-8444). General used stock.
Tue-Sun 12N-6PM.
The Griffon Bookstore (121 E Colfax, 219-287-5533). New and used books,
SF, mysteries, philosophy and theology. Also military and
role-playing games, cards, and gifts.
Fort Wayne IN:
Hyde Brothers Booksellers (1428 N Wells, 260-424-0197). General stock.
Village Books (6204 St. Joe Center Rd, 46835, 260-485-35724;
623 Dupont Rd, 260-338-1392; Village Books/Novel Coffeehouse,
Northcrest Shopping Center, 260-471-3572). General stock
used books. [02/07]
Michigan City IN:
The Bookstore (Lighthouse Place mall). New books.
============================================================================
------------------------------
Madison WI:
Avol's Bookstore (240 West Gilman, 53703, 608-255-4730). Used and
out-of-print books. Over 150,000 titles. emphasizing scholarly
books, publishers' specials, European imports, review copies, and
books on tape. Acquired the stock of More Books! on State Street
when it closed in 10/03. Mon, Thu-Fr 10AM-9PM; Tue-Wed, Sat
10AM-7PM; Sun 12N-5PM. [02/09]
Booked for Murder. [02/09]
Bookworks (109 State, 608-255-4848). Used, out-of-print, and rare books.
Mon-Sat 11AM-2PM and 3PM-6PM.
Borders (west side). [10/03]
Canterbury (341 State at Gorham, 608-258-9911). Good selection of new books
with coffee shop, dimly lit, music, very aesthetic.
Medler's Books (449-D State, 608-284-0744). Used, rare, and out-of-print
books in all subject areas. Pricey. Open daily, often late.
More Books! on State Street (310 State, 608-258-8084). New and used, gift
books, art, cookbooks, poetry, children, humor, mystery, women's
studies, SF, philosophy, history, religion, Wisconsin, etc.
Mon-Fri 10AM-8PM, Sat 9AM-8PM, Sun 12N-5PM.
Paul's Book Store (670 State, 608-257-2968). Large general stock of used
and out-of-print books, somewhat worn. Open daily.
Penny Lane (521 State, 608-255-3229). Used tapes and records, very small
philosophy, but some good material.
A Room of One's Own. "A feminist bookstore/coffeehouse, with a large
selection of women's fiction (the best selection of short story
collections I've ever seen), general feminist nonfiction books and
a small but interesting section of CDs and cassettes." [02/09]
Shakespeare's Books (18 North Carroll, 608-255-5521). Madison's
largest used and rare bookstore, with 250,000 volumes.
Eclectic, general stock with special displays of first
editions, autographed copies, and antiquarian works. As of
07/07, most of the books had already been moved to their new
location at 668 State, 2nd floor. Mon-Sat 10AM-6PM,
Sun 10AM-5PM. [07/07]
Stony Hill Antiques (2140 Regent, 608-231-1247). General antiquarian
books, specializing in Wisconsin and Midwest Americana, fine
bindings and first editions. Tue-Sat 10AM-5:15PM.
20th Century Books (108 King, 608-251-6226). New and used books
specializing in popular culture such as SF, mystery, and
comics. Mon-Thu 9:30AM-5:30PM, Fri 9:30AM-7PM,
Sat 10:30AM-5:30PM, Sun 12N-5:30PM.
University Book Store (711 State, http://www.univbkstr.com,
608-257-3784). A private organization "serving the UW and
Madison community since 1894." 100,000 titles in the General
Book Department, an extensive Medical and Technical Reference
area, plus remainders, half-price books, foreign-language
books, a coffee cart, UW clothing and gifts, etc. Special
orders and out of print searches. Open Mon-Sat 9AM-5:30PM,
Sun 12N-5PM.
============================================================================
------------------------------
Milwaukee WI:
Barnes & Noble (4935 S 76th, 5900 N Port Washington Rd, 16220 W Bluemound Rd).
"Do you need a description? A Big Mac in Milwaukee tastes just like
a Big Mac anywhere else."
Bay View Books (2261 S Howell Ave at the corner of Lincoln, Kinnickinnic
[or call it "KK" and sound like a native Milwaukean], and Howell,
53207, 414-744-0742). "Another big messy place--which must run ina
the family, because it's owned by the brother of the owner of
Renaissance. None of the books are priced, but George won't gouge
you (no warranties expressed or implied)." Open Mon-Sat 12N-6PM.
The Booksmith (Delafield). "A great store which sells only used books, and
is a treasure trove for those of us who collect vintage girls' books
from the 50s and 60s. Prices are significantly steeper than what
you'd pay for these books at yard sales and thrift shops (the only
other places where they can occasionally be found these days), but
the books are mostly in good condition and, considering how
difficult these books are to find elsewhere, fairly priced for what
you get."
Border's (downtown; Fox Point). Particularly strong on poetry and
literary fiction. [10/03]
Constant Reader (1627 E Irving). "Perhaps the best used bookstore in the
city--particularly if you're looking for literature, literary
criticism, philosophy, or theology. Not a fancy place,
but good books at reasonable prices."
Cultural Connection Bookstore. African-American focused.
Downtown Books (327 E Wisconsin Ave). One peson says, "Not very good
quality or selection--probably almost nothing of academic
quality," but another disputes this. [10/03]
Half-Price Bookstore (6814 W Brown Deer Rd, 5032 S 74th, and
16750G W Bluemound Rd, Brookfield). "Remainders and general-stock
used."
Just Books (845 N Marshall, in the basement of a posh old apartment
building, 414-278-8478). "Very small, but high quality and nearly
all academic. Not always open, so call ahead. If you go, be
prepared for conversation, and maybe a cup of tea."
Mystery One (2109 North Prospect Ave, 414-347-4077 or 800-207-0084,
www.mysteryone.com). "A small but well run mystery specialty
store--mail order, monthly newsletter, frequent author
appearances--with both new and used books. The owner, Richard Katz,
is quite knowledgeable.
Renaissance Book Shop (834 N Plankington). "Four floors, ill-kept, trashy,
somewhat better upstairs, but with lots of books. Some old
philosophy, bound Thomist journals." "Gigantic, so that the jewels
among the dross add up to a lot of jewels."
Renaissance Book Shop (Mitchell International Airport). "Fairly small,
but generally good quality; this is where you'll find the
glass-case stuff. You'll have to use airport parking, of course,
but if you spend $20 (or is it $10?), they validate." Reports
are that prices have risen recently [10/00]. Someone else reports
that the downtown store has "glass-case stuff," just not in glass
cases.
Schobers (Greenfield Ave, West Allis). "Mostly vintage paperbacks, and a
particularly strong young adult fiction secion. Heavy on popular
fiction, stuff from the 50s and 60s, but an eclectic selection that
is worth a look if you're seeking something you haven't been able
to locate anywhere else."
============================================================================
------------------------------
WI (other):
Amelia's Book House (23 North Main, Fond du Lac, 54935, 920-921-4010,
http://www.execpc.com/~gelly/. Used books. Open
Mon-Fri 10AM-5PM, Sat 10AM-2PM.
Driftless Books and Music (Viroqua). Used books and music. 8000
titles in-store; another 100,000 warehoused. [02/09]
============================================================================
Comments:
For more used bookstores, you might check http://www.abaa-booknet.com/ or
http://www.bookweb.org/bookstores/usa_states.html.
There is also a book compiled by Lane Phalen, THE BOOK LOVER'S GUIDE TO
CHICAGOLAND (ISBN 1-880339-06-4, $14.95) which covers over four hundred
bookstores in the Chicago area. "Also recommended is MR. CHEAP'S GUIDE TO
CHICAGO which had an pretty good rundown on bookstore, and THE USED BOOK
LOVER'S GUIDE TO THE MIDWEST. They have exhaustive listings, but are IMHO
overly concerned with finding fine first editions."
There are also Book Hunter Press's USED BOOK LOVER'S GUIDE TO [various
regions], seven regional guides to over 7,900 used, out-of-print, and
antiquarian book dealers in the United States and Canada. The complete
database is online and can be searched by location, dealer name, specialty,
and type of dealer. Access to the database is available on a two tier basis:
partial access is free, full access is by subscription.The web page also
includes free access to regional and city maps showing locations with used
bookstores. For more information or a free catalog, check their web page at
http://bookhunterpress.com/.
And there is also ANTIQUARIAN, SPECIALTY, AND USED BOOK SELLERS
DIRECTORY 1997-98, covering 5,261 dealers in 863 pages. For more
information, send E-mail request asubs@aol.com, or check their web page
at http://www.auldbooks.com/biblio/asubs.
===========================================================================
Copyright Notice
Information contained in this FAQ is compiled from many sources. The
compiler accepts no responsibility for the comments contained herein.
The comments are provided "as is" with no warranty, express or implied,
for the information provided within them.
This FAQ is not to be reproduced for commercial use unless the party
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3) They will agree, in writing, that the FAQ will be included in the
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contributors (if any) to the FAQ remain in the FAQ.
4) They will agree, in writing, that the collection including the FAQ will
be distributed on either a non-profit basis, or have some percentage of
profit donated to a non-profit literacy program. Project Gutenberg
counts.
To support this, this FAQ is Compilation Copyright 2009 by Evelyn C. Leeper
(the FAQ maintainer).
============================================================================
Evelyn C. Leeper (eleeper@optonline.net)
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