About Time Bookstore - Libertyville, IL

About Time Bookstore, Libertyville, IL

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You know how LeBron James was born to play basketball?  Well, Delanie D. was born to be a bookseller and bookstore owner.  She still keeps a part-time position as a consultant in the corporate world, but her passion project is owning a Libertyville bookstore, a talent that suits her very well.  In the store’s 2 1/2 months of existence they already have a strong core of regulars, many who’ve already benefited from the customer incentive program by spending $200 in the store and receiving a discount on a future purchase.  They also enjoy seeing customers from the surrounding communities who don’t have a bookstore in their area.  This store’s location on the busiest street in the heart of downtown Libertyville is a big boost and very visible, surrounded by other small businesses.  Ideal.  

At just 2 1/2 months old, About Time is just hitting its stride but Delanie has a good grip moving into the future.  For now, you’ll find all new books and a small number of used books.  If you can’t visit in person you can order a book online and that part of the business will continue to evolve and grow.  Sidelines include stickers, store merch, greeting cards, and locally created unique novelties.  This part of the business will also continue to improve.  The store hosts a story time for kids and also hosts some book clubs.  I especially like that About Time is hosting some ticketed events to help sustain the store through the slow months of January and February.  A great idea for any indie that has to deal with challenging winter weather for shoppers.  

The best thing at this store was the one thing I DIDN’T experience.  Finn, the shop dog, was not here today because he had to go to camp (yes, you read that right and you other shop dogs better step-up your game).  He even has his own staff recommendations.  Way to go, Finn.

There are many in the Libertyville area who’ve not discovered this indie yet.  Well, it’s “about time” that you do.  Enjoy an experience in a beautiful store and meeting a charismatic, charming, and knowledgeable owner who will provide an EXPERIENCE that you simply won’t get online.  Congratulations to Delanie and Libertyville!  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir. 

JUST FINISHED:  Kazuko: Sixth Grade in World War II Hiroshima, Kazuko Blake with Sandra Blake.  An excellent primary source memoir of the author who was in 6th grade when the first atomic bomb was dropped.  Describes her life and family in Japan before the bomb and after.  The author is still living today in the United States,  Highly recommended if you can get it (Wide Angle Publishing, O'Fallon, IL). 

CURRENTLY READING:  Fresh Water for Flowers, Valérie Perrin.  marjan kamali

RECENTLY PURCHASED:  The Stationery Store, Marjan Kamali. 

Welcome to Libertyville. 

Beautiful storefront. 

Good advice during winter weather. 

Full view of the storefront. 

View looking into the store from the front entrance. 

I love this seating area in the front of the store with all the natural light.  Beautiful. 

I like these seats right by the front door.  And a great reading shelf for your book. 

If you're looking for bargains find this book rack. 

If I were a regular, this is where you'd find me. 

Check out these community boards when you visit and discover lots of bookstore and local information. 

Another unique setting.  Chair and desk combined into one piece. 

Table display of best sellers. 

Head over to the left side of the store and start browsing.  Kudos to Delanie's dad who built this very attractive shelving. 

Display of new releases. 

Another twist on the "blind date with a book"  promotion.  This is "blind date with a book bundle."

Uniquely crafted jewelry. 

Close-up of one of the above items. 

A potpourri of happiness for your home, locally sourced. 

I really like that the store features a display of customer recommendations. 

Hobby favorites. 

At About Time Bookstore, Finn, the shop dog is very well read indeed. 

Just a few of the books by local and regional authors. 

Of course you'll need a book tote. 

A portion of the children's area. 

Overview of the children's area.  Come join them for their story time. 

A perfect little table with little chairs for little readers. 

Another angle of the children's area. 

Visual confirmation. 

Looking from the back of the store toward the front entrance. 

The store even offers bargain books for kids. 

Make sure to get some stickers at the checkout counter. 

Just a few of the greeting cards offered. 

With Delanie, the fine owner at About Time Bookstore.  Thanks for a great visit.