Looking for literary treasures to add to your collection? With a smattering of excellent independent booksellers across the region, the Greater Peoria area has some wonderful places where bookworms can browse and buy new, used and rare books. So, if you are a book lover wanting to bury your head in a good book or get lost among the shelves of stories told, add these charming local shops to your itinerary.
The Book Nook {Peoria + Washington} // This independent bookstore has an impressive inventory, be prepared to spend hours browsing row after row of bookcases and shelves picking up pre-loved gems as you go. What sets the Book Nook apart? When books are brought in, they are priced right away in order to give credit to the donor, but that’s not all. Time is then spent on cleaning, repairing, and making sure that the “used books” will last once placed on their shelves for the next reader.
Book Rack Books + Gifts {Peoria} // Women + Veteran Owned for 50 years. This family run bookstore, where they loving refer to themselves as Mr. & Mrs. Book Rack, offers a well-curated selection of commercially popular, oddball and antiquarian books. Go ahead and ask for recommendations, they love helping you find just what you’re looking for.
Comic Confections {East Peoria} // Think classic cartoons, superheroes and villains! You’ll find a perfectly curated amalgamation of comic books and graphic novels. With offerings for the hard core collectors to beginners. It’s everything a neighborhood comic shop should be: organized, helpful, other-worldly and -above all else – fun! To quote Han Solo in the new “Star Wars” movie: We’re home.
I Know You Like a Book {Peoria Heights} // Located along Ace Corridor in Peoria Heights, it’s the perfect place to pick up the latest prize winner or sleeper hit, find a gift, renew acquaintance with a classic, or just while away an hour or two in the company of good books. This neighborhood bookstore feels very intimate and personal, with a lovely sense of calm throughout and armchairs where you can read for a while.
Lit. on Fire Books {Peoria} // This proudly Women + LGBTQ-Owned bookshop is a colorful, communal space within the city. With emphasis on reducing environmental impact and reconnecting the community, you’ll find a calendar crammed full of free events from author visits to open mic nights to glow parties after dark to health screenings and book clubs.
TAiLS of a Bookworm {Pekin} // If you love adorable four-legged friends and the smell of books, we have a gem for you! This non-profit bookshop raises money for local animal shelters and rescues in need. Although the towering bookshelves are easy-to-navigate, there’s always a friendly face readily available nearby to make suggestions or chat books and/or animals. You’ll find author signed books, children’s picture books, and on occasion, a cat to adopt.
The Zone {Peoria + Pekin} // If you’re looking for a spot with niche books curated with care and compassion, stop by The Zone. Locally owned and operated for more than 26 years, this comic and game shop has a great selection of comic books and graphic novels. Utilize the knowledgeable and helpful staff!! Their recommendations and passion will inspire your next few reads. After browsing the books, check out the massive selection of games, posters, and collectibles—it’s impressive!
