This bookstore is the creation of my wife, Nina B., and the store's devoted and talented…read morestaff--just to make clear my conflict of interest at the outset of this review! I have watched over the years (since 2014) as Bookends & Beginnings has morphed from a dream into beautiful reality, but it is still the product of Nina's mind and her dreams. The new location next to Fountain Square was cut from whole cloth. It began as a large empty piece of real estate all painted in white--a blank canvas!--and was transformed into what it is today: a carefully planned and executed space on two levels painted in dark teal, gold, and white, with a hand-picked selection of over 10,000 books arrayed attractively and intelligently. (Not to mention a reak carousel horse and a giant paper-maché giraffe.) The striking floor-to-ceiling mural, the work of her two graphic-artists sons, presides over the store and is visible day and night. You really should check out Bookends & Beginnings, if you don't know it already!

This bookstore does not support local authors. A local bookstore should. They are very rude and…read morepompous as well. We don't need that behavior in Evanston.

For the amount of times I've shopped at the various Barnes and noble location in this mall I'm…read moreshocked I have yet to write a review. Throughout high school, I spent SO much time at the location on the other side of the mall by Nordstrom's and was heartbroken when I was told they were closing only for them to reopen across from Cheesecake Factory. Then I was told they were relocating again and I'm actually loving this new location. I do wish they had a cafe in the bookstore but there are so many nearby coffee shops in the mall that it doesn't make much sense. But they didn't have very many spaces for folks to sit and read and enjoy like they used to but in return, I think the layout is set up with more intention and more eye appealing. The staff has always been incredibly friendly in locating books and making suggestions. Pro tip is to get the membership because it basically pays for itself if you buy even 5 books during the year.

I love the fact that they retained Barnes & Noble at Old Orchard. It used to be the staple store…read morewhen it was located front and center facing Skokie Blvd. It was a frequent place to visit as it was a massive two floor venue. It closed down for a bit but was revived in a location right across Cheesecake factory. It is now located next to Anthropology. The store is so inviting and the service is amazing! The workers cater to your needs and are so friendly. They really have a passion for books. The selection of books is not as large as it once was but it is supplemented by their online catalog. From the value perspective, you can find online outlets with a more price competitive offering BUT there is no replacement for browsing the aisles and loojo g through the books and selection of titles for an intriguing options to read. I'm so happy that my daughter can continue to enjoy the benefits of Barnes!

What listings and notices fail to mention is that Amaranth's selection of rare/used books is…read moreinexpensive, in some cases surprisingly so. Thumbing through some mid-19th century curiosity it comes as a shock to discover such a seeming rarity priced at under $5!

I love this little gem! Very clean, organized and amazing prices on books! I had somw great finds!!read more

Whimsical bookstore with a curated collection. I happened upon this bookstore when I was on my way…read moreto the nearby coffee shop. They have many children's books for all ages and a brief adult section. It took me a while to choose from all the options but the associate was very helpful and offered suggestions. I love the selection they offer and am happy I stumbled upon this place

Well-curated indie bookstore with knowledgeable and friendly staff. Great to have them in the…read moreneighborhood!

Spent a lifetime in the world of vinyl and I can definitively say Squeezebox knows what they are…read moredoing. From variety to quality to customer service, they tick all the boxes above and beyond.

Great selection of new and second hand books and vinyls! Very reasonably priced and friendly staff…read more Love this place!!

Sadly, this is the only Judaica store left near me, but they do have nice stuff and while I went…read morefor a gift, I left with several things for myself. My biggest complaint was that they didn't answer their phone any of the times I tried calling (many tries) and there is no updated information on the website or social media so I drove there hoping it was open. Indeed it was and the gentleman working was very helpful. Prices were fair. And there was a nice variety of gifts to choose from.

Awesome selection, fun place to shop and browse for anyone who likes Judaica. Closed on Saturdays…read more(duh)

This was an unexpected quirky store . Lots of trinkets and ideas kids created and were sold in this…read morestore, along with different creative books. Overall a very unique and fun store to be surprised. Right next to Shuga Records on Milwaukee Ave.

Visiting Chicago from Indiana. Found the bookstore on Yelp and thought it would be really great to…read moresee. Walked from our hotel to the Blue line. Road the Blue line all the way to where we were supposed to get off. Walked to the store but it was closed. We were there at 11 but the store doesn't open until 11:30. We went walking down the street until it opened up. Found another book store which was really cozy, fun, and cute. Made it back to the store at 11:45. Store was still closed. Went into the record store for a few more minutes to wait. Still no one there. Went all the way back to our hotel and visited a different bookstore and bought stuff there. Thought the concept was pretty unique but lost my only opportunity to visit.

Door is always open, (straight up, literally.)…read more STreet Metered Parking in front at curb. Very Nice staff and establishment. I learned a few things, yeah about every time I step in there.

This place really doesn't have much in the way of back issues or interesting things, and the…read moreservice is horrid. I asked a few questions and it's like asking a question to workers as if it's pulling teeth. IF all business interactions are just transactional there is no need for the workers. Workers are there to interact, guide, and happily answer any questions , and to just conversate iregardless of any transaction lest their job is worthless.