Nice used bookstore, good for browsing, getting something specific (knowledgeable staff), or…read moreshopping for collectible editions. Not surprisingly, one of the best collections of Illinois and Lincoln history. Perfect location if you're visiting and staying in a downtown hotel. Next to a couple of good restaurants, if you're the sort who likes a book and a glass of wine. Odd but worthwhile stack of deep discounts on carts at entrance.

This place is a TREASURE TROVE for history lovers, book lovers, antique lovers, vintage lovers, and…read moreeveryone in-between. It's quite huge and to properly scour it all, you might need a couple of hours. I was there for about an hour and was so impressed by all the vintage copies of classics-- from American to British to Russian to Chinese classic literature, this place has a bit of everything. It's organized well and neatly by author last name, which eased the search process. The prices are pretty good and reasonable too. This is definitely a spot I'd like to return to if I'm ever back in Springfield.

The moment I walked in I was approached by a woman doing a petition. She asked me to sign after…read moreverbally giving me info. I told her I'd like to read about it before I sign and she kind of looked at me like I'm crazy and said "I like to be more informed before I make a decision." She told me no one else had to think about it and I told her I did. That was weird and uncomfortable, especially when she turned from me and asked my wife. She gave the same answer. Selection is pretty broad but the store is very political and it's obvious. They have a sign that said "everyone is welcome, except ICE.", Black Lives Matter, gay pride, and anything that is demeaning to republicans. It's honestly distracting and disappointing. Someone who may not have the same beliefs may not feel comfortable walking around with fascist stickers, and everything that is demeaning towards "the right". Value is good and as I said before the selection is quite broad. There were a lot of pro-gay books which you never really see anywhere else. There are also all kinds of self help books and everything else you might expect. Overall I do recommend this place, but I can see how a large majority of people would feel really out of place here. That aside, it's a really nice establishment with very friendly staff. Not so crazy about the woman in the front pressuring me to sign her petition. I'm sure she meant well though.

I popped in on a whim to pass some time, and I'm glad I did. I forgot how lovely this shop is. They…read morehave an excellent selection of books, very well curated. I love how they have a section devoted to translated literature - I'm on a Japanese literature kick! I even found a book on my TBR downstairs in their used section, which felt very lucky - especially for $7! They don't have as many knick-knacks and gifty things as other indie bookstores, but I don't mind it. Sometimes I'd rather have the focus be on the books.

Currently , the best place buy and browse books. The downtown here is pretty much devoid shops .read more

I love barnes and noble! My daughters go at least once a month and spend an hour. We always leave…read morewith an armful of books each. The member savings is nice to have to take a little bit off the price.

My husband and I had read an adulatory article about the store and the many thousands of books…read morethere, so we traveled up from St. Louis to take a look. The thousands of books were there, all right, but in a building that smells overwhelmingly of mold. I don't know whether it's from a roof leak or a flood, or whether they have just bought a lot of smelly books, but my husband and I both stank of mold even after we left, and I was coughing. I didn't find much of a selection of unusual or uncommon books to tempt me, and the layout of the place is very strange. I couldn't find mystery books for over ten minutes. They were hidden away in a corner, and given far less prominence than romance or inspirational books. Even if I found out that the mold problem had been solved, it's not likely we would return.

Don't let any negative reviews steer you away from this place, it's great!!! I was in-town…read moreovernight, and specifically looking for guitar tablature books. While they didn't have much, I did find their music section, and got a great book on the old ACE Records label. However, the best part of the experience was Lori, the owner (I believe). She was SO HELPFUL!!! I asked about her usual stock, and she was totally willing to have an in-depth conversation with me about various subjects. Also, when I went to check out, and told her that I was in town for a concert, she reached into a drawer, and pulled out an information sheet recommending restaurants for dinner, breakfast and coffee places. She even gave me some of her own, and some advice on where else to look for good used books!! Other than the concert itself, it was the highlight of my trip there. Thank you Lori!!!

This shop is New York-level. Impressive selection, eclectic and eye-catching decor, wonderful…read morearray of art (including local artists), utterly charming atmosphere. If it were in the Village, I'm sure I'd be going all the time. The folks behind it have impeccable taste, and their hearts are clearly in the right place. I wish them much success.

I have watched the growth of Bobzbay Books through the years and marvel at the innovative and trend…read moresetting promotions they have sponsored over time.

Cute shop! A fun hidden gem. They have only what you need: coffee, teas, smoothies, and sodas. They…read morealso have a couple treats and ice cream. The service was extremely quick and everyone was so nice. The prices were great too. A very homey feeling. They also have plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, and parking out front

Quirky adorable place with wonderful hosts and the most delicious coffee and material napkins that…read moresmell like eucalyptus.