By Emily Birks
The height of summer is upon us, which means maybe you’ve been searching for a new beach read, or just a bit of respite from the irregular heat wave and sudden downpours. Either way, the easy solution can be found on Wells in the shape of a new(ish) independent bookstore in Old Town. Slant of Light Books has been in business for almost a year, and many locals have already made themselves established regulars. The owner, Jess Murach, even has a separate cart in the back with fresh donations for her committed customers to check out before shelving.
Tucked beneath boutiques and a barber shop, Slant has a special subterranean character, one more akin to those found in places like New York or Boston rather than Chicago. A beautiful wooden sign hangs out front with their logo of Jess’ dog Geordi, named after the engineer in Star Trek. She has added many other personal touches to the space, including vintage leather furniture and various collections of art on sale from local artists. There’s even a sneaky little record collection and a lovely greeting card table.
Jess opened her bookstore with the hope of setting a new precedent for resale literature. While her store sells both new and used, you wouldn’t know the difference walking in – and that’s actually the point. She mixes the two so seamlessly that you may pick up a book with pleasant surprise to see the very reasonable used book price on the back. Many of them are in very good condition while also being unique, as her variety of literature carries the depth of character that you would desperately fail to find at larger sellers.
The space itself is familiar and inviting; sunlight and movement flicker through the front windows just enough to warm up the space, while the blaring chaos of the city is quickly forgotten and replaced with steadily quiet jazz. You can pick up a book, sit on a cool leather chair, and put life on pause to read, just for a moment. The shop has a subtle blend of modern and antique style, almost as a nod to the mix of new and old reads. Large scalloped pendant lights and a restored fireplace recall the turn of the century era, while books and art pile up over minimal wooden shelving. The effect is not too far from a very comfortable basement or living room, a perfect environment for selecting your next book.
Jess has been slowly turning the space into her dream bookstore – her passion for community and quality stock is evident in her easy willingness to try new things and support local creators. With all of the donations she’s gotten, she feels that the store has created new life and a “circle in the community”. One of her newest projects is the beginning of a language section, started by a unique collection donated by a moving customer she couldn’t resist. She hopes the section will catch fire and continue to grow with more languages.
The cozy rugs and windowsill plants continue to add to the at-home feel, perfect for various readings and events. Jess has hosted professors and authors throughout the year to try to maintain a strong sense of community through sharing creativity. She hopes to expand her variety of hostings to draw more people in and create space for others’ work. While her literary selection is continuously growing, she is always looking for more readers to come by with their donations or curiosities. I myself couldn’t leave before grabbing an armful of enticing pieces. Consider dropping by when you are in the search for a reset or a break from reality and have a seat with a fresh read. They are open from 9-5 on weekends and 10-6 Tues-Fri, just long enough to pop by after work.
