Pilsen Community Books - Chicago, IL

Pilsen Community Books, Chicago, IL

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There's one big problem here at Pilsen Community Book Shop in Chicago.  I think it's a bit of a safety hazard for first-time visitors.  The problem for these folks is the dangerous jaw-dropping that happens when they enter this store, which is exactly what happened to me.  A little cushion inside the front entrance would be helpful for us jaw-droppers, you know, something to cushion the blow.  Not many indies are able to shelve their books floor to ceiling, especially when it's a high ceiling.  But that's exactly what they do here and for bookstore enthusiasts and book lovers, this visual is pure beauty.  But the real fun begins after you pick up your jaw and begin your browsing.

I already knew about this store because I visited its sister store, The Dial, in downtown Chicago.  This store and The Dial are both owned by Aaron L. and Mary G.  This one-level store gets its name from the Chicago neighborhood it resides in.  It seems to be a great location on a very busy street and Nick, one of the booksellers, told me the area is starting to see some good business development.  They offer mostly used books and a few new ones.  You'll also find some vintage and rare books as well.  Customers who bring in books can receive store credit or cash in return.  There are some sidelines here including locally made greeting cards and notebooks to name a few.  But for the most part, it's mostly about the books.

Pilsen Community Books is approximately three years old which, for me, still makes it part of that new wave of bookstores.  They host events on site including a weekly radio show with an author or other book connected guest.  They have a store book club, always a great way to bring people into the store.

I had a great time meeting Nick and enjoyed talking to him about the store and about books.  But for me, this store with its floor to ceiling inventory of at least 10,000 books is the magnet that will draw me in as well as all those who come to visit this terrific bookstore in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

JUST FINISHED:  A Diary Of A Bookseller, Shaun Bythell.  The real diary of a guy who decided to take over a bookshop in Wigtown, Scotland.  Read his daily entries, his daily intake, number of customers, and enjoy his observations about odd co-workers and eccentric customers.  I thoroughly enjoyed this amusing book and tale of small-town life in Scotland.  Recommended.

CURRENTLY READING:  The Tattooist Of Auschwitz, Heather Morris.

RECENTLY PURCHASED:  People Wasn't Made To Burn, Joe Allen.  A butt-kickin' Pilsen Books t-shirt.

Another exterior view.  

If you're walking down the sidewalk and spy this sign in the display window,  you've arrived.  

Thankfully, yes.  

View looking into the store from the front entrance.  Do you see why my jaw dropped?  Notice that floor to ceiling shelving for as far as the eye can see.  Intrepid readers may also recognize a partial glimpse of a celebrity in the foreground.  Yes, that's my mom.  

I can't stand far enough back to get the full floor to ceiling shot.

An excellent poster promoting the Chicago Public Library system.  

Great display of new arrivals.  

A few of the uniquely Pilsen greeting cards available.

Brass pencil sharpeners.  Very cool.

When you see this sign, you're at the checkout counter ready to buy your books.  

Many indies offer artwork by local artists for sale.  Pilsen Community Books is no different.  

This is your old school card catalog that is the checkout counter.  There are no longer cards in the file drawers...

...instead, every drawer has books.  A great idea!

If you need supplies for writing, go to this display.  

A nice display of cooking books.  

Just a few of the books of local interest.  

Always one of my favorite pictures.  

This card catalog takes old school to a new level with a manual typewriter on top.  

Fine display of poetry, located near the back of the store.  

Partial view of the children's section.  

Another view of the super children's section.  

Much of the shelving used in The Dial and this store are bleachers from a school gym.  

View looking from near the back of the store toward the front entrance.  

With Nick on the right, one of the fine booksellers at Pilsen Community Book Shop.  Thanks for a great visit.