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The Macabre Librarian is a Quad Cities-based pop-up vendor & online store featuring book crafts & esoteric reads. This shop brought Blind Dates with a Book to the QC area in pop-up form in 2022. We aim to connect locals more deeply to their reading lives; improve personal well-being with book-related self care; and heighten consciousness about reusing, upcycling, and recycling reading materials. In addition to doing pop-ups, we partner with local businesses such as The Atlas Collective, Rescued, Skeleton Key Art & Antiques, & Coffee Apothecary to bring curated books, blind dates with a book, and book crafts to their stores.
From Google. Shown as written by the reviewers.
Stephanie Thoms
November 2025
I truly enjoy this space! There is something about books and coffee! My last trip there we brought along a friend from "the other side of the river" and she also loved it and said she would come again! I love the inclusivity, the ability to meet friends in such a welcome space. The coffee SO good! But if you are in a book hang over and you cannot choose you next good book, the staff are so helpful!!!
Neil Larimore
September 2025
Cute little spot, very gay friendly. The vibe? Fabulous. The cinnamon roll? Tragically auditioning for the role of Sahara Desert. They told me they “don’t have the license” to microwave it. Bestie, it’s a pastry, not raw chicken. Someone please send them a copy of the health code before another cinnamon roll dies a dry, crumbly death. Adorable place overall, but warm rolls would really take it from cute cafe to gay heaven.
Heather Holt
December 2025
I can't say enough good things about this place. The coffee is perfect. I've tried something new every time I've been there and it's all good. The bookstore side of things is cozy and inviting and it has a nice selection for being a smaller store. So if you are looking for your next read or just a tasty drink it's worth a stopping by. Oh, and if that's not reason enough, the staff are awesome, friendly and helpful!! 💗📚☕️
Lilly Togisala
October 2025
Went to this space to meet up with friends and was not expecting such a darling space! It's a unique, cozy space with excellent decor and a wide selection of different genres. I was especially delighted at the presence of zines on their shelves and was able to obtain a delightful variety! Their drink selection was pretty good and I enjoyed a hot spiced chai and a bar of chocolate. The barista and other staff were all delightfully pleasant and engaging, creating a good space. I'd recommend this place for everyone, whether you're looking for something unique to read, a comfortable space with good vibes, or a hangout spot with friends. I'll certainly be visiting again in the future.
Sarah Elgatian
April 2025
Small shop with all the hits: Incredibly knowledgeable and helpful staff, surprisingly large and various selection of books, well-lit, quiet but upbeat atmosphere. The coffee and drinks are delicious. This is officially my favorite bookstore. They have community events and author signings, and cozy chairs.
