Seminary Co-Op Bookstore

12/30/04

This Hyde Park institution is one of the best academic bookstores in the country.

by Contributor at Citysearch

The Scene
A haven for academics, bookworms and Chicago's literati. Housed in the basement of the Chicago Theological Seminary, more than 100,000 titles fill many small rooms with low ceilings and wall-to-wall shelves. Finding books can be difficult, but the staff is generally helpful.

The Goods
The collection is strongest in the humanities and social sciences, especially philosophy, political science and sociology. Though it's not the official bookstore of the University of Chicago, the co-op's proximity to the campus (across the street from the main quadrangle) means that you'll find a wide selection of University of Chicago Press titles and U of C authors' recent works. Visiting authors have included former Supreme Court nominee Robert Bork, evolutionary biologist Stephen Jay Gould and novelist Toni Morrison.

07/28/03

Caution: Bookstore Hazardous to Budget

by nwt at Citysearch

There is no better bookstore--anywhere--than the Seminary Coop. This is a serious bookstore, for anyone who loves reading or learning, on any subject under the sun. And if they don't have it, they'll order it for you, and it'll be there in two days. What can be better than spending hours in its cozy (okay, it's small, but...) quarters, browsing for books. Need help? The staff is second-to-none. I've had them search me out to help me find a book I hinted at with the most vague idea of what I wanted. An all-around marvel and a gem, this bookstore is. Become a member, and save 10% off everything in the store for life, too!

• Pros: Member Discount, Large Selection, Spectacular Service

04/01/03

Terrific store - make the trip!

by erikowens at Citysearch

This is a terrific academic bookstore, just a couple blocks from its sister store 57th St. Books (which carries general interest & popular titles). It's a great place to browse, even if it is in the basement. (Then again, what could be more U of C chic?) If you're tall, consider wearing a helmet when you go -- the low ceilings and exposed pipes create major hazards.

• Pros: Member discount, Superb selection, Good special orders
• Cons: Can be crowded & hot