10AM - 5:30PM
138 Center St, Grayslake“This store is the best! They frequently have newer release titles at reasonable prices! Great selection of lit fic, historical fiction, thrillers+mysteries, romance, young adult and children’s books (and more). I also love looking at the cookbook section. Full of other bookish goodies that I have bought and enjoyed in the past like literary tea, candles, notebooks, hand crochet book characters (I personally have Arthur, Harry Potter and Dumbledore!), and I’ve even gotten beautiful origami Christmas ornaments made out of repurposed book pages. The owner is very kind and all the staff always greet with a smile! As a big reader, I’m so happy they exist in our community.”
“One of my favorite Catholic gift shops in America. I always visit when I'm in the area and I don't even live in the State. God bless the Franciscans and Marytown.”
10AM - 9PM
901 N Milwaukee Ave Suite #500, Vernon Hills“Great local place to find books ? of several subjects and genres! Apart from the books, you can find souvenirs, accessories, etc. Starbucks coffee is another attraction along with deserts, cookies, etc. Very please environment. Friendly staff members. I would definitely recommend this place! A+”
“Great place. Very nice and knowledgeable owner. Great selection for any interest! Prices are reasonable for reality as it is now. Tidy, bright, convinient location. Big parking lot.”
“Thankful I had the opportunity to stop in at this beautiful independent bookstore, located right on the outside of Chicago. Barbar's Bookstore hosted an author event for Porsha Williams "Pursuit of Porsha" novel. From my first experience, to actually having the opportunity to meet Ms. Williams at the store, I had an amazing professional, kind and friendly interactions with both the team members at the bookstore as well as with Ms. William's team.Pursuit of Porsha, did not disappoint. The book was heartfelt, well written and enduring. Ms. William's Did an amazing job of taking the reader on a journey and a journey and explaining the how's and why's along the way. For the past few years or more, I have seen her on a wide media scale and it was very connecting to read about the journey getting there and who she is and was as a person before the person we would grow to learn to know. I highly recommend taking time to let this author into your world. Read she is kind and has an amazing story to share.”
“My wife and I didn't realize there was Half Price in Vernon Hills. Loved our visit here. My wife got discounted business books. Will be coming back for sure.”
“We was here yesterday and the staff was incredible. My 2 boys played while we shopped around. Parker helped us when we had questions and all. We will definitely be back.”
10AM - 8PM
6108 W Grand Ave, Gurnee“2nd & Charles captivates with its unique array of pre-owned books and an assortment of intriguing collectibles. While pricing varies widely—offering both bargains and instances where items exceed retail value—it's a delightful spot to while away hours exploring their extensive collection. An inviting and shopper-friendly atmosphere makes it a fantastic destination.”
10AM - 8PM
6170 W Grand Ave Space 665, Gurnee“I came here looking for a specific calendar. They did not have it in stock, but found it at another location. They had it transfered to this store for me. I was very happy with how the staff treated me. Thanks to them I have a happy family.”
“I visited this store because I didn't want to wait for Amazon to deliver the book I wanted. I was surprised at the variety of books they carried. They are bit more expensive than Amazon but I love the Starbucks coffee shop inside that offers quiet space to work & sip. The Starbucks coffee does not accept Starbucks gift cards or rewards. The books are wonderfully organized and they offer unique and beautiful gift options. They also have board games, Puzzles and leather bound journals. I will definitely be returning when I need a place I can go to focus.”