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After-words is one of the few independent bookstores left in downtown Chicago. Our two floors house a huge collection of over 70,000 new and used volumes. We feature a wide variety of fiction, literature, poetry, and childrens books. We also carry art and photography books, cookbooks, local books, history books, health, healing, and new age/occult books among many other categories. Our space is available for special events, including book signings, readings, and lectures. Rental space is available year round for private parties. We are also equipped to sell books at off-site events. So if you have an author speaking to your group, we are happy to bring the books to you.
Lexy McCauley
2 months ago
I looooved this store. I’m a huge fan of vintage coffee table books, art books, design books, and vintage prints. They had a huge coffee table book selection in the basement. They also had vintage style postcards and Chicago themed gift items on the main floor. They request that you use hand sanitizer when you enter. The person upstairs was very kind and watched my big backpack while I perused the rest of the store. There were some tight spaces that would’ve been difficult with a big bag. I ended up getting some postcards because I didn’t have room for another book. They differentiate between new and old books with a sticker.
Donatella Polizzi
4 months ago
Chicago Bookstore, a gem! At Afterwords The selection is amazing because there are many books out of the ordinary in all fields of interest. The person selecting the offer is absolutely someone who thinks about culture and not just the usual repetitive writings. If you are in Chicago, you are curious and like to read you cannot miss this gem!
AG
5 months ago
What chain bookstores lack, after-words makes up for ten fold. Very cozy, sanitized, and welcoming atmosphere. Selling used to newly released books with displays that make sense, this is easily one of my new favorite spots. You can very comfortably shop the shelves with everything in view (I really appreciated that) and find old gems or brand new releases. Definitely stop by when you're downtown!
Kelsey
1 years ago
If you’re in downtown Chicago, you’ve got to check out this awesome bookstore! The main floor features a fantastic array of graphic novels and children's books, and when you head downstairs, you’ll find a massive selection of fiction, poetry, science, nature, and more. I picked up a great book and some fun stickers while I was there. The staff were super friendly and went above and beyond to chat with our unhoused friends about their favorite reads. Definitely a place worth visiting!
Fernando V. Pomar
4 months ago
Good bookstore, good selection of books, attractive display. It fits the vibe of the neighborhood—which is alive and lovely. If feminist activism is not your thing and things you don’t agree with make you mad, don’t go. Anyone who’s curious enough will definitely find something worth reading.
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