By Victoria de Frise Zahrobsky
The Newberry Library, or, as I like to call it “The Newb!” Old, historical and serious, with an intimidating edifice.
Many of you are aware of the Newberry Library, but I’m willing to bet that a good number of you have only entered the building a few times- perhaps for an event or a talk. If you have been there, go back! If you haven’t, go! This week! Tomorrow! Today!
And when you do climb the stairs and arrive in the gorgeous lobby with the beautiful mosaic floor, take a right and head toward the eastern part of the building. Amble, trot or sashay through the enormous glass double doors and VOILA! You have now entered the grooviest bookstore in town!
They have books which correspond to the Library’s collection, books on:
Cartography
Indigenous studies
Chicago
Books Arts
US History
World History
However, beyond those more serious tomes is THE SURPRISE!
The Newberry Bookshop has the best greeting cards in the city! Beautiful postcards too!
I also want to highlight the wall o’ puzzles, along with the wall o’ children’s books!
On the counter is what I call “the doo-dad’s section:” magnets, stickers, patches, pins and finger puppets. Stocking stuffers galore! Just that extra little something for someone you adore!
Perhaps you have a penchant for Edward Gorey? The Bookshop has Gorey notecards, a game AND jigsaw puzzles… Oh, and an Addams Family game and puzzles.
Are you in the market for used books, or as the Bookshop calls them “pre-loved books?” Look no further! Although the Library no longer has the annual book fair, the shop has an entire section devoted to those pre-loved publications. Meanwhile, the Library does still accept book donations all year round. So don’t you worry your pretty little head about that!
Meanwhile, although the Native Pop exhibition has ended, the shop has many indigenous titles on display and on the shelves. Beyond the fabulous books, though, are the bison, hare and raven stuffed animals and puppets, as well as stickers, pins, jewelry and a video game celebrating indigenous peoples.
The Bookshop also has a number of birding titles that correspond to the Winging It exhibit that is currently open; along with postcards, notecards, stickers, a game AND puzzles- all bird-oriented! (or for the birds! Sorry, couldn’t resist!)
They are purveyors of souvenirs of the Library as well – mugs, totes, hats, magnets, postcards and even (gasp)…books!
The Newberry Bookshop is a destination in and of itself! You should go!! And bring your friends!
Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10AM to 4PM. Don’t dawdle!
(312) 255-3520
