Great bookstore! There are too bookstores in downtown naperville. I prefer this smaller/ local bookstore. I went into this store looking for a specific book. I found a few ladies at the information desk. They were very friendly and helpful! One of the ladies showed me exactly what I was looking for. Overall- great local bookstore with a fantastic/helpful staff!! I will go back soon. read more

Anderson's Bookshop - Bookstores Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Holly Jackson Event (4/5/24) - I loved the part with Holly and Jeneva Rose. Their conversation was so unique and cute, and Holly was insanely funny. She has such a great sense of humor and I had a blast listening to her. But why was the staff not better prepared? They had to steal Jeneva's mic to talk to the audience and even then the staff was unprofessionally running around. They should've had more staff placed in positions to find audience questions, not running to them. And then to follow, the book signing part went terrible. I was interested in how we were organized by number (given to us when we ordered our tickets). But tell me why it took about 1 hour and 15 minutes just to get to get to 100. My number was in the 350s (they told us they had approximately a max of 700). My friends and I had to wait FOUR HOURS. I mean poor Holly, she should've been home by then. They should've prepared better because not only was the wait long but there was no accommodations for it. The bathrooms sucked and smelled bad; a stall without toilet paper. No food or drink except for one single crappy water fountain. And half the auditorium was freezing. The staff was on stage talking all night trying to get the crowd entertained, but I only grew increasingly annoyed. I couldn't even read because they kept yapping. The crowd had over 500+ people and hardly anyone was interacting but the talking lasted ALL FOUR HOURS. I was slowly losing my mind. There were so many things they should've planned better. Also, why did it start so late?? 7pm with doors open at 6? What did they honestly expect when offering 3 signings per ticket??? A horrible first time experience and I cannot see myself going to one of these events again if it is as unprofessional and poorly executed as this one. The value for what I paid for was absolutely horrendous. Also, they set poor Holly up on a foldable table with no table cloth or fun promotional posters. Come on, she's a celebrity and you can't make her a nice set up? I hope Holly finds a better company to work with next time. read more

Let me start off by saying this isn't a review of the actual bookstore, but of the author signing/Q&A events they do. I went to my first Anderson Bookstore Q&A event last night for Anna Kendrick. Huge fan of hers, so I was looking forward to it. Now, Anna was great, but there were aspects of the event that could have been better. First, the event was listed to be an event from 7p to 9p on the ticket page. Now this might not be direct fault of Andersons, but 7p to 9p is what people were expecting because of that. The event started around 715p and ended at 820p. And it seemed as if it ended abruptly, which if that was the case, explain that to the crowd. A lot of people were not happy about that. Second, it was listed as a Q&A. Well only 4 audience questions were taken. That's not really a Q&A. I've been to numerous Q&A events at other places, and the focus is on the audience questions, not the on stage interviewer that nobody cared about and that nobody wanted to hear talk for more than the simple questions she was supposed to ask. Also, when audience question 4 was asked, the announced "last question" and even Anna responded with an "oh, ok?" to that. Lastly, and this isn't a real complaint from me, because I knew we wouldn't get to "meet" Anna, HOWEVER, don't put signs up in your bookstore that say MEET ANNA KENDRICK. After the event numerous people outside were confused as to why they DID NOT get to meet her like the signs in the store said. I informed them it was clearly stated on the site, however, if someone didn't read that information and only went off what it said in the store, I could see why they would be confused. I have heard numerous things in the past about signing and meet & greets at Andersons that were bad, Ronda Rousy for example was oversold most people did not get to meet her, but I was hoping the Anna event would be better. Unfortunately it was not. read more

Anderson's Bookshop - "Meet" Anna Kendrick sign could be misleading. - Bookstores Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

spent 2 hours today between books and toy shops, found so many wonderful books and toy, BUT NOT ONE person spoke to me, no hello, no offer to help. it is a membership sale day, I was asked if I was a member, when I said no, I wasn't offered info or to join. For this I passed up the opportunity to shop Indie bookstores in Chicago. I am incredibly disappointed and won't be back read more

The best bookshop and a gem of the community. Anderson's is by far my favorite store in Naperville. They have a great selection of books for all ages and interests as well as fun and thoughtful gifts. The staff are all true book lovers and are always helpful and kind. If they don't have exactly what you're looking for they are more than happy to order it. The store is a real asset to the community as they frequently holds events with authors both local and world-renowned. Even in this time of social distancing and isolation they have many free virtual events. Their convenient pickup service has been a lifesaver amidst the boredom of this past year. read more

This long term fixture in Downtown Naperville is an amazing walk through heaven for reading purists. They are always hosting an incredible array of book signings and have a large amount of signed first editions in stock. The team there really knows their stuff, if you want you will get a very educated answer to any request. Tables, end caps and displays are curated with a great eye for detail. Anderson's is a perfect example of what is right with four wall retail! read more

Let me browse unhindered quickly shown me to the area of books I was interested in. Friendly checkout. Surprised I missed it the last time I was in town. read more

A wonderful, calm, and peaceful oasis of books! Treat yourself and step in to browse and buy a book or more. I support independent book stores and Anderson's is probably one of the oldest and consistently reliable providers of books quality toys, cards, and gifts. I am a member as well and enjoy sales and special events. Immerse yourself in the joy of reading, you deserve it read more

I just moved here and I've stopped at this Naperville location twice already. I love the store itself. But each time I've visited, not one employee has said hello or asked if I needed help. The person at the front desk doesn't greet me. Today I stopped in and the employees talked to each other quite a bit but again didn't say a word to me. I expect better. I try to frequent independent stores, but I have a hunch if I entered the Barnes & Noble around the corner I'd be greeted by a friendly face. In fact, I'm going to test this out. It bums me out to write this. read more

I don't understand the hype. I feel wrong when I admit that I don't really care for Anderson's. It's almost sacrelidge to do so in these parts. Okay, it's a bookstore and that, in itself, makes it cool. But I can't give it a thumbs up for much else. Its retro 70's interior decorating isn't hip..it's just old and tired. LIkewise, the ladies working the counter also seem a bit... read more

What a great bookstore! There is a marvelous collection of books here that is super well organized with really friendly and helpful staff eager to help you. A friend and I stopped in and had a great time perusing books. I ended up buying some clearance Christmas merchandise, several simply marvelous greeting cards and a great book. I love bookstores in general and this one in particular. I love to read and yes, I own a Kindle, but there is nothing like a bookstore. It's my position that I want to live in a world that still has cool bookstores like this so I make a point of shopping at them. I don't care if you can get a book cheaper here or there. You can't get the bookstore experience online or at Costco. Come on, visit this bookstore or any bookstore. Buy a book! Buy one for a child in your life. Open it up and touch the pages. Spend a bit of money to maintain this experience for the future. Pardon me but I have to go read now. read more

When you walk in, everything about it just screams local: mismatched bookshelves, handwritten opinions of the staff, fun little trinkets of the town just hanging about. I've always been a huge reader and find the smell of a new book intoxicating (and all you bookworms out there: you know what I am talking about!) Well, that smell clings to everything in this place and it's such a great place to walk into. They have authors roll-in for discussion/book-signings all the time and are very active in the supporting book writers, book lovers, and the literary community in Naperville.... ...but their staff is terrible! Whenever I go in, I'm always ignored. Flagging down an employee is about as easy as saving a baby from a burning building. Whenever you do manage to pin one of them down, they stare you down like you're going to steal something. A friend and I had been flipping through one of the books, laughing at its contents (Steven Colbert's I Am America), when one of the employees basically implied that if we weren't going to buy it, we needed to put it back. It's called browsing (and I did end up buying, thankyouverymuch!). Still, I really want to love this place. Maybe when I look a bit older, I'll be treated more nicely at this establishment. read more

After trying unsuccessfully to book myself an author event at Anderson's Bookshop, I was inclined to dislike the shop before ever setting foot inside . . . but the other day, I popped in to see if they had any Mad Libs because I just happened to be in downtown Naperville for the first time. And I am fresh out of Mad Libs. Well, even though they snubbed me as an author three years ago, as a customer, I was charmed by the store. And the sweet ladies working there charmed me even more. I picked out some Mad Libs (two books of them, including Penguin Classics--fun!) The place reminded me of the old Schwartz shop in Milwaukee, right down to the placement of the Ugly Doll display, so that felt sweetly nostalgic. All in all, Anderson's is just the place when you're missing the 1990s. read more

I really enjoyed my time browsing and purchase experience here. I was looking for a mystery series and the staff directed the "mystery lady" to me. She was very insightful and helpful, she spent a little extra time asking me about the authors I like and gave me a great recommendation. She is also well versed in Scandinavian authors and was a delight to speak with. While the store may not have the broad selection of a larger chain they did have a curated selection that I appreciated. read more

Just don't get the hype. Really, really want to like this place, but..... Have been numerous times over the last 2 years. 1. Small, uninspired book selection. 2. Smug, unhelpful staff. 3. Soul-less non-descript store Its stores like this that have driven people to buy most of their books online. In two years I have yet to find anything that resembles that nugget that makes going to indies worthwhile, either for myself or kids. If this place wasn't in prime A1 downtown Naperville location, it would have been toast a long time ago. read more

Are we too spoiled by Barnes and Noble, Borders or even Chapters to even appreciate a real shop around the corner especially those who love to carouse through each aisle to see what or how the books are shelved? I loved the entire experience, I walked in and the smell of fresh and older pages kept my nose company along with all of the titles and recommendations on the end caps. Inside you get the feeling of being inside of a library, but this library is priced to own and is very friendly where you don't have to hold your hand over your mouth for fear of talking too loudly for the other people. I had gone past the store on my exploration of this fine town and wandered in to see what their cookbooks were all about and was blown away with the selection that was available considering the size of the bookstore. Basic cookbooks like the Joy of Cooking, Gourmet, Grilling and the amount of specialty cookbooks for dietary reasons or celebrity chefs. I normally zero in on French cooking or culinary specialties and was tempted to purchase a book called "My French Table" or some such but stopped dead in my tracks when I saw that there was a family printed cookbook on the shelves for $10! Barnes and Noble eat your heart out because your shelves would never carry a gem like this that would normally be sold at church bake sales or family/friend circles. As soon as a bookshelf is delivered I am treading back to the shop and purchasing that beauty. read more

I tried to write this via email to the store but since that was not available on their site I am writing here. I came to a book signing here tonight and was incredibly disappointed with them on how it was run. We were rushed through to the author to take a professional pic (which they told us 3 hours prior was the case, no using your own phone), no ability to say more than hello to the author, no personalized signing, just a totally odd experience. Spent 3 seconds with the author. When I mentioned this to an employee on the way out I was told I should come to see smaller authors. I have seen much larger authors and celebrities and my experience has never been like that. No one spends their time and money to be herded like cattle, they want to say a few words to the author. Maybe next time limit the number of people if no more than 3 seconds is what you allot per person. read more

This bookstore is just lovely... When walking into the store you get this "YOU'VE GOT MAIL" feeling...it is so warm and fuzzy in there. The staff is super friendly and extremely knowledgeable. The location of the bookstore is also wonderful, if you make a trip outthere make sure to make a day of it and visit adjacent locations. read more

If Yelp says you're open until 6:00, and you're not, it's something that needs to be addressed. Nice store, but they sure didn't help me today. read more

Anderson's Bookshop - Bookstores Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

See all

Still in love. The author appearances are top notch. David Sedaris, Luis Urrea, Dan Chaon, and Brigid Pasulka are among those I've heard/met. read more

I love this store, which is located in the heart of downtown Naperville and (conveniently for me and other book lovers) just down the block from the Nichols Library! You can easily park at one and walk to the other. While their selection and prices are not able to compete with online retailers or large chains, they more than make up for it with a knowledgeable staff and that personal touch. I especially enjoy the handwritten reviews of various books that adorn the shelves. The other MAJOR plus about Anderson's: They bring authors to town for signings a lot. And not just unknown or local authors (though there are a few of those too), but big names including Neil Gaiman, Erik Larson, Studs Terkel, Charlaine Harris and even J.K. Rowling! Some of the authors aren't my cup of tea (ahem, Jenna and Laura Bush) but that's fine--I'm sure they appeal to others. There are frequently children's authors who do in-store readings as well, and I'm sure it's a great resource for families and educators. I often go here to shop for Christmas presents, and I can always find something unique and interesting for the person I have in mind. I believe they will also order things for you if they don't have them in stock, though I haven't personally used this service. Overall, I would recommend them to anyone who likes that smaller, more personal feel; and also anyone who wants to meet their favorite author! read more

I have a soft spot for independent bookstores in general. But when it comes to Anderson's Bookshop, it is a place I have been going to since I was a child, so it really has special significance. The location in downtown Naperville is amazing. And they have top-notch customer service and often have exactly what I want stock (or will gladly order it). Really the only aspect of Anderson's that I do not like is the decor. It is definitely in need of a little sprucing up. Other than that, do not change a thing! read more

Book stores the way they are supposed to be. This place is a must. You have to check out the incredible Author Signings they have here. Some really big names make here. You aren't going find that with the mega-stores. Excellent childrens' section. Very helpful staff. I highly recommend shopping here. read more

I like independent bookstores, but am amazed at how many of them are able to remain in business with the rise of online books, Kindles, Nooks and discount bookstores. Big bookstore chains have had to shut their doors. So, I was impressed to learn that Anderson's has been in business for a while and even has another location in Downers Grove. That gets big plus points in my book. The shop is fairly large, the selection is extensive and it is well organized. They also carry other items such as TY Beanie Ballz stuffed toys and games. I even saw some tea and other little trinkets for sale. I left empty-handed mainly because I don't really see the point of buying a book at regular price when you can either check it out from the library or buy it online or at a used bookstore for less. I didn't interact with any of the staff members either so I can't comment on the service. They did have an author coming to the store that afternoon so they were setting up for that. It seems like they are very involved in the community, which is good and a big part of the reason why they have been in business for so long. Overall, good bookstore and I'd stop in again if I was in the area, but the verdict is still out on whether I'd actually buy anything. Maybe I would spring for it if I found a book on clearance or something, but I highly doubt it. read more

Loved this place! The staff was so helpful and there's so much selection! I had never been in here, but I had heard all kinds of good things and I was not disappointed. Tons of kid stuff, not only books, but Klutz art kits, magazines, and some Thomas the Tank engine stuff. I can't rave enough about the staff. We couldn't find a few things and they were looking all over for us! I'm sad that this isn't closer to my house! read more

I could spend all day here. Literally. Order some Lou's from across the street and have it delivered to my chair where I'd sit reading. All day. Brought my fiance here for the first time, because he thought that Naperville would no longer have a bookstore since Border's closed. He was happy to learn just how wrong that was! Anderson's has just as big a selection as chain stores, if not larger, because they also carry more indie stuff. They also frequently have authors in doing signings. Chelsea Handler was there this past year. I was sad to have missed that! read more

This place has figured out the equation for a successful and sustainable book store: 1) community involvement, 2) eBook compatibility, 3) solid customer service, 4) big-name book signings (i.e., Neil Gaiman, Chelsea Handler, the Berenstains, just to name a few). As we know, Borders failed on all four accounts, hence the bankruptcy. Anderson's effortlessly maintains its charm while being progressive technologically. It's a gem. Mark it. read more

Neat bookshop in downtown Naperville! Great location. Although it is small, it manages to not be too cramped, and it is always clean and organized. Many authors come through each month for meet-and-greets, autographs, presentations, Q&A, et cetera. Lots of big names (including actors who have written biographies or other books) among the local and smaller names. Prices are the same as Barnes and Noble (which has a location nearby), and they offer editions that Barnes and Noble does not. They also have an impressive merchandise, gift, and stationery selection. read more

Anderson's was the first bookstore I visited after I moved to Chicagoland and its charm really radiated through. It seems like they are constantly organizing events and arranging for neat things -- whether it's an author signing, a reading circle, or the whole hoopla that happened in July 2007 for Harry Potter. Though their selection won't rival Barnes & Noble down the street, it doesn't need to. What you get with Anderson's is a refreshingly personal, authentic experience in an independent bookstore run by passionate bibliophiles that the conglomerates and mass chains are steadily eating away at. So far Anderson's is surviving it, thanks to loyal clientele, and I hope that never changes. The atmosphere is different and it's wonderful. The staff is attentive and they go the extra mile to answer questions, order books and give suggestions if you're stuck on a great summer read or what to purchase for a friend's birthday. I love using this as a resource for presents, as I've not gone wrong yet. The childrens' section isn't one I visit often (no kids) but it's fantastic, with plenty more than just books. Together with some of the nicest people, reasonable prices and a feel of a "real" bookstore, Anderson's is very much worth the trip. As a note, if you can't find street parking, try the free lots next to the Naperville Library (behind Eddie Bauer) or by Tom's Montana Grill and Lou Malnati's. read more

5 stars for the independent booksellers! This place has excellent choices and very knowledgable people who love to read. I forgot how much I missed this place. Independence is a novelty in this town, and in some reverse way I think it's really helped Anderson's. Great selection of local interest books too. Check their website for author signings. They have a lot of big names come through pretty regularly. read more

I love any non-chain store. They have a large selection of toys and gifts, so it is kind of like a Hallmark with books. With the recent closing of so many small stores I would think that the staff would be a little friendlier, I seem to get the cold shoulder every time I come in here, and I buy a lot of toys here and at Oswalds. The have definetly cornered the market on author signings, and they have some unique window displays. Defintely worth stopping in. read more

Downtown Naperville has changed a lot since I was a kid. It's actually a destination now, as opposed to a sleepy little downtown area. Some of the new stuff is great though one could argue that it's getting too commercialized. For those in the latter category, might I suggest Anderson's? This place has been around forever, which is impressive for not only an independent business but an independent bookstore. It's not as a big as a Barnes and Noble for sure, but you want quality and not quantity regarding books (and most other things). I took my boyfriend here since he is reader, and we come back every time we return to Naperville. read more

I've only been to Anderson's Bookshop once and that was for a book signing by my favorite chick lit author. I felt the event was well organized for the most part. If you purchase a book by an author that's coming in for a signing, make sure to ask for a number in line for the signing event. If you purchase it in advance you get a much better place in line than you would if you purchase it at the event itself. Being the book signing virgin I was I had no idea this was a possibility. I also recommend you come early to find parking. I ended up parking in one of the public lots a few blocks from the shop. Thankfully it was a nice evening so I didn't mind the walk at all. All in all, my experience at Anderson's left me looking forward to my next visit. read more

Naperville is lucky to have this bookstore. It regularly hosts big-name writers, unlike neighboring Barnes and Noble. It's not perfect: I would like to see a greater percentage of the space dedicated to books (they also sell toys and gifts). Fans of writers' back catalogues might be disappointed, as they tend to carry newer releases. But these are small complaints. Buy a book here and read! read more

This little bookshop is such an asset to the Naperville community. In the Amazon world, finding brick and mortar bookstores is more and more difficult to do. This shop has been open for years and still appears to thrive (thank goodness). While it doesn't have anywhere close to the space of a Barnes and Noble, it makes up for smaller inventory with personal charm. I try to stop in Anderson's every time I'm in downtown Naperville. Their location is perfect - right in the heart of downtown, on Jefferson just a few blocks from Jefferson and Washington. If you love to read, this place is heaven! Perusing the aisles, you'll find personal recommendation cards sprinkled throughout the titles. You can read about why others have found particular books to be great, and I've found so many new fantastic authors this way. My favorite thing about Anderson's though, by far, is their special events. This is how I actually found them many years ago when I was just a wee teenager. They host events where they actually have authors out to the store for signings. They get really big names to come out, too! Since the store is somewhat small, they will occasionally host for a really big author over at the college or other venues instead. Check out their website to see which authors will be in town when - they have events pretty much every weekend, and often just about every night throughout the week. read more

So, let's all admit that we know that physical bookstores have been replaced by websites if you want to get books for: the cheapest price, in the most convenient method or just find really rare books. That being said, people (and I) still love bookstores. Nothing really replaces the experience of walking around touching and flipping through them with the smell of new paper around you. Anderson's is amazing in that regard -- I've been going there since I was 8 and I still get excited about a trip there. It's super welcoming, well-lit, warm, with very friendly salespeople. They don't have a huge selection but will have the bestsellers. I also don't think they have any used books. Anyway, go! Browse! Pretend you're 5 again and go read 'See Spot Run'! read more

Books seem over priced at this bookstore. On numerous occasions the staff has not been friendly or helpful. You don't feel welcomed in the store. Too bad your local author section isn't bigger. For a small bookstore, it would be great to have more support for local self published authors. If I want big name authors I would go down the street to Barns and Nobel or Amazon where it's less expensive. The bookstore could really stand a remodel - outdated and cluttered. read more

The store always seems to be well organized, and is fun for all age groups. There is a Thomas the Train set up for the kiddos, which my friend's children certainly enjoyed. I've never actually been looking for something in particular when I visit so I can't comment on the selection. I have been there for a book signing and it was very well organized. read more

I heard about this local bookstore from the updates Knox College alumni put in the newsletter (apparently one of the owners is a Knox alum) and made a point to visit. Parking can be a little tough, but it was nice out so after a block or two walk I got back to the store where I fell in love. They had so many signed books, and the staff were very helpful and friendly. They also recommended a local restaurant since we weren't sure where to head for dinner. I haven't yet become a member, but if I go back as often as I expect (I've been back once so far) then I'll be making that happen. Also, an above reviewer mentioned a poorly upkept bathroom: I did use their restroom and it was absolutely fine. Nothing to write home about, but kept up well and clean. My boyfriend also noticed a pyramid shaped pillow with a tassle on top and a ledge on the bottom that would facilitate reading in bed... It might just be a great birthday/holiday gift for me this year! read more

I love both the Naperville and Downers Grove locations of Anderson's Bookshop. I don't spend a lot of time at the third, but when I've stopped by it's been a great experience. If you want to meet some great authors, get some great book recommendations or just shop for books and bookish things, this is the place to go. My favorite bookshop! read more