Bookends & Beginnings

I teach at a Montessori school and have brought small groups of students here before. We’ve always been welcomed and had a place to sit downstairs to have a short book discussion. This time as soon as we sat down around a table, we were "greeted" by the new events coordinator who asked with a very strained smile who we were and how long we’d be staying, and was told the library was the place "for things like this." She was incredibly snobbish and patronizing, and my students and I felt both unwelcome and embarrassed. If I hadn’t already made my purchase, I would have put my books back and walked out. I’m disappointed that this is the direction this store is going. We sadly won’t be back.

Bookends & Beginnings is a cozy place to read, relax, and enjoy great conversation. They host events that foster community bonding and a shared appreciation for books. They recently welcomed us for an event that brought so many members of the community together!

8/12 - Had a wonderful evening at Bookends and Beginnings. A book signing party and reading for poet Robbie Q. Telfer, plus wonderful piano music by Stu Seale. A student of Robbie, Tim H. (Toaster) also read a few poems. The staff are wonderful. Shout out to Wren, Michael, and evening host, Katie. 10/27 - Another great visit today. Zach was very friendly and helpful! Great new location!

Charming bookstore tucked away in what looks like Diagon Alley. The interior is rustic with creaky wooden floors and interesting decor and plenty of literary finds. It does cost a pretty penny.

Wonderful local bookstore. Kids storytime at 11am every Saturday. Love the staff book recs!

Friendly staff, nice ambiance and well kept store. Wide selection of new books. A couple more way finding signs would be helpful. Lots of helpful staff picks with good details as to why they liked them.

An independent bookstore brimming with personality in Evanston. There were new books, book-lover gifts, a kids corner, a used book section downstairs, and indications of a mini bar that wasn’t open when I visited.