Unabridged Bookstore

To kick off Pride Month on June 1st, I wanted to support a local business that actively celebrates and uplifts the LGBTQ+ community so I decided to visit an independent bookstore, and I’m so glad I did. From the moment I walked in, I was immediately drawn to their thoughtfully curated and robust LGBTQ+ section. It was clear that this wasn’t just a token display it was a genuine, intentional celebration of queer voices across genres and experiences. From fiction and memoirs to activism and history, the selection was both impressive and inspiring. Beyond that, the store had a wide range of other genres, and I honestly wanted to buy everything. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, the staff were knowledgeable and kind, and the whole space radiated the kind of inclusive energy that makes you want to linger for hours. Supporting businesses that support us is powerful and this bookstore made me feel proud, seen, and excited to read. I’ll definitely be back!

I love bookstores. I had seen this one on a few lists of the best independent bookstores in the country. It was really nice. Located in Boystown in Chicago, Unabridged Bookstore it's pretty incredible. While being a bit cramped, I feel like it had as much inventory as any Barnes and Noble. Just not as many non-book gift items, which is fine by me. While having all the typical bestsellers, there is a wide selection of local authors, signed books, and an extensive LGBT section. The travel selection was also surprisingly large. I was disappointed to find that there was no public bathroom. I probably would have stayed longer.

Great local bookstore with lots of selections within each genre. Friendly service. The aisles are kinda narrow to walk between so keep that in mind if ya want more space. But, I found the Chicago Transit Hike book by Lindsay Welbers which I really want for a book club so I’m glad I bought it! I would come to this bookstore again and recommend it.

I love this bookstore! So many interesting finds and it is very well organized. You wouldn’t get lost. It’s so close to many plant stores and coffee shops as well.

A beautifully curated bookstore! They have the latest prints and the whole Penguin and Oxford edition shelves, great art books and vast children's books section.

One of those bookstores that just seems to keep magically expanding every time you turn a corner. Great selection in a wide variety of genres, and a big sale section as well. I overheard part of a lovely conversation of a regular catching up with her favorite bookseller and it was a sweet reminder of the necessity of places like this.

Lakeview’s favorite bookstore - new releases, an extensive fiction section, a dedicated room for LGBTQIA+, and more Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, the book clubs are a great way for people new to the neighborhood to get involved