Best-Loved Book Nooks

Caitlin Murray Giles - Chicago
September 27, 2011

There is nothing like cozying up with a great book—and a great kid to read to. On cool or rainy fall days, we love to stop into one of our favorite book stores to enjoy a (free!) storytime or browse the shelves for new must-have reads.

Luckily for all of us, the Chicago area is full of independently owned book stores. These establishments truly thrive on the support of their local communities. Introduce your budding reader to one of the fabulous local book stores listed below.

The Magic Tree Bookstore

Located in downtown Oak Park, The Magic Tree Bookstore has been serving young readers since 1984. Visit the store website for details on upcoming special events, including author visits and story times.

Women & Children First

Stop in on a Wednesday morning and you are sure to find this Andersonville store packed for the popular story time. Story time here is about more than reading -- come prepared to dance, sing and get silly. The store also offers a variety of in-store birthday party options.

The Book Stall

We love all of the opportunities to meet and greet our favorite authors at this Winnetka book shop. The events calendar is full of opportunities to meet your authors and illustrators face to face (and maybe even get your treasured copy signed!).

The Book Cellar

Families in the Lincoln Square neighborhood and beyond love the weekly story times every Friday at 11:00a.m., hosted by The Storybook Mom (aka the lovely Nili Yelin). After story time, spend a few minutes strolling the scenic square and checking out the cool vibe in this super family-oriented neighborhood.

The BookMarket

Families can stop into the always hoppin' Glenview Town Center on the first Thursday of every month at 10:30 a.m. for a free, all ages story time with The Storybook Mom. This store is within walking distance of loads of other family destinations, including Make-a-Messterpiece and the Kohl Children's Museum.