In honor of March being National Reading Month, I wanted to highlight one of the gems in my neighborhood of Logan Square: City Lit Books. Opened in 2012, this local bookstore located just south of the square on Kedzie Ave, is everything you would want in a small bookstore and more.
City Lit Books is well organized, well-lit and incredibly welcoming. On more than once occasion, I have strolled from my apartment to City Lit Books to browse their selection. City Lit Books carries hardcover as well as paperback books, and are great about highlighting local authors and publishers. They have many different sections including new releases, fiction, young adult, biographies, self-help, cooking and an expanding kid section in the back. There are also several large leather – and incredibly comfortable – chairs that are the perfect place to curl up and start reading a book.
Part of what makes City Lit Books so special is the staff. They are incredibly knowledgable about the rows and rows of books that line the shelves. If I am ever unsure of what to get, the staff is always there with a good recommendation or an idea to nudge me in the right literary direction. Another good place to start is their ‘Staff Picks' bookcase; Located near the front of the shop, the ‘Staff Picks' bookcase is covered with books and handwritten notes. Upon closer inspection, you will discover personal recommendations from the staff with a short synopsis and the reason for their affinity for that particular novel. I have bought a few books based off their suggestions in the past and have always been happy with my purchase. In addition to the ‘Staff Picks' bookcase, scattered throughout the shelves are even more handwritten notes from the staff about their favorites books. An added bonus: if you cannot find a specific book you are looking for, they will order it for you and call you when it is ready for pick up!
If you are ever waiting in line at the Lula Cafe (another Logan Square gem), pop over to City Lit Books to get your reading fix satisfied. Free parking is available in the back for those visiting from across Chicago! I hope I have convinced you to get out, visit City Lit Books, and get reading!
Store Info
2523 N Kedzie Ave
Chicago, IL 60647
773-235-2523