Say hello to the newest addition to Wicker Park, Volumes Bookcafe, where all your coffee breaks, sweet tooth cravings, literary searches and booze moods will be fulfilled.
If you go
1474 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Friday-Saturday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
This 2,000 square-foot independent bookstore, the brainchild of sisters Rebecca George and Kimberly George, is home to a great selection of the newest books on the market and other treats including local beers and pastries.
“We created the space for anyone in the community,” says owner Rebecca.
When I walked in with my toddler, one of the first few things I noticed were the lovely phrases on frames across the wall. That and the glimpse of books was enough to call this an inspiring and vibrant space; a little literary paradise, if I may.
I feel like I could come one day and bring the children to story time. The next day I could bring a sketchbook and draw my heart away. Yet another time I could come for the books and stay for the beer. Another day I can just browse endlessly through books as my daughter did. It can also double as a date night venue or children’s play date location. And perhaps that’s what sets it apart from other bookstores, the fact that is can be so many things to so many people.
I encourage you to take a look for yourself. Chances are, you’ll love it!
Kids will love
The back of the shop which includes a reading nook with a great view of Children’s, Middle Grade and Young Adult titles.
Plush characters all around to help fully appreciate picture books.
Story time every Wednesday and Saturday at 10 a.m. and Junior Lit Critics Club (including free copies of books).
Blind Date with A Book, where kids get to take home their very own mystery book.
Family Book Club, Creative Writing Workshops, Bookmaking Class and Volumes Summer Camp coming in the future.
Adults will love
The choice of local Metropolitan coffee, a fine selection of wine or tastes from an eclectic variety of breweries, including local gems Lagunitas and Forbidden Root.
An enticing café with irresistible menu option including a selection of croissants, cookies and other pastries from Chicago-based Dollop Coffee. (Do yourself a favor and try the chocolate scones.) Prices range from $2-$6
Late hours (up to 11 p.m. on some days). A wonderful thing for those who want to relax with a book or beer at the end of their day, or finish working on that deadline.
Free wifi
Open Mic series on Wednesdays, which are a delight of poetry and prose.
