I was wondering around on a Saturday evening and found this local gem. What an incredible place. Enchanting. I immediately felt at home exploring the 3 floors. The books cover every subject. Some were probably harder to find. I happened upon a hardback about Eleanor Roosevelt and the years she spent alone after FDR's death. I also found a copy of an old magazine which explored all sorts of Tibetan culture. I purchased both. The book on Eleanor was found in the basement which is a bit of a labyrinth. I got tickled because I was entranced by the books so much that I nearly tripped several times on the very uneven floor. And it's painted all the same color so you can't see the weird level changes well but I was weirdly not even upset about it because it added some intrigue to the mystery of searching the shelves in the basement. Even on a nearly 100 degree day, it was chilly down there. Cool! Upstairs on the 3rd floor where it was toasty, I found the magazine. There were some cool lounge areas up there too. Record albums and a music section. I was mesmerized. I believe there were a couple of people putting out books but I'm not sure. I never asked anyone for help because I wasn't sure who worked there and I didn't really need any. The guy who checked me out seemed pleasant but I can't speak too much on the service except to say it was fine. I felt it was very acceptable to read through books even though they were for purchase and except on the crowded main floor, they had places for you to sit and read so it was even encouraged! I love that! The only thing I'd have liked that I did not see is a bit more merchandise that is book and reading related. They had a few Prospero Books tshirts and a tote bag but that was about it. I admit it wouldn't necessarily fit the vibe to have a section like this or maybe it could if done in a nonchalant way. The messages from customers written on the walls and shelves throughout the store along with photos were absolutely perfect! There were some photos that showed the basement before it became the magical place it is right now. Reading the messages and seeing the photos let me know I was in the realm of my people. All the books and magazines I saw were reasonably priced. I spent less than $15 on my large hardback and magazine. I didn't have nearly enough time to explore. I hope to go back!! You should definitely go and support a local bookstore treasure!!! I'm so thrilled they are here! We need more like them! And they carried ALL types of books. There is no censorship. As noted on Prospero Tshirts, "There are worse crimes than burning books. One of them is not reading them." - Joseph Brodsky And you'll find in my friend's book, The Sun Does Shine, they can strip you of everything but if you have an imagination, they can't take that. Books and reading develop that ability. Let the words transport you! READ! read more

See all

A three story book store!? A book girls dream! It was so easy to navigate and figure out how the store is divided. They have a large sign explaining where you'll be able to find genres between the three floors. I was pleasantly surprised to see the prices were also reasonable! Of the books I looked at, the most expensive price was $15 for a fiction novel. I highly recommend you take a stop here if you're in the area! read more

Prospero's Books - Bookstores Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

See all

Such a cute spot in westport to check out if your walking by or are wanting a new book. There are 3 levels so many many books to sort through with every single genre you could imagine. the variety is insane. Not impressed with the staff, as they didn't say hello or anything to us (they were watching videos behind the desk in their computer). But, the atmosphere is phenomenal and takes you back to nostalgic days in an old bookstore. One of my favorite parts of this place is a little glass window pointing downstairs. Little things like that keep the character of this place alive. Most of the prices seemed fair as well. Not too ridiculously expensive for kc. read more

This is an amazing local independent bookstore with three stories of incredible goodness. The staff here is fantastic and knowledgeable. They have a lot of new books that are very And also a large selection of used books that you can purchase affordably. Our friends who lived here for years, introduced us to Prospero's Books and we will return many more times. I am sure. I purchased a very cool book about the secrets of Kansas City. My wife has already stolen it and begun reading it. :) read more

Prospero's Books - Directions - Bookstores Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

Such a delight! Enjoyed an hour Saturday browsing their selection-- could spend days here. Looking forward to returning soon. Purchased a book printed 50 years ago comparing where I lived for two decades in California and Kansas City, MO and an out of print philosophy of fairytales companion. Such a find! read more

Prospero's Books - Basement Look - Bookstores Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

See all

Prospero's is such a fun spot in Kansas City! This bookstore is 3 floors of books about every topic and genre. I always love exploring here as you never know what you will find. I would highly recommend to anyone that is in the area. read more

Prospero's Books - Top floor - Bookstores Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

In a great neighborhood, 39th St. near the university medical campus. Quiet and dark with an absolute used bookstore vibe and scent. Every category type of books was very well represented. This trip I stayed mostly in the travel section, and my much better half borrowed into the murder mysteries (always makes me uncomfortable). A regular stop when we're in the area. read more

This is such a cool bookstore. They offer 3 levels of new and used books. The bookstore is housed in a lovely old building with creaky wood floors. It reminded me of my grandparents old farmhouse. And it just smells of books. Like a library. There's so much to look at. It's a great store for browsing. The service was friendly. I wasn't really looking for anything when I went, just browsing but the selection was vast and the prices seemed fair. I'll definitely revisit this shop and recommend that you check it out. read more

See all

I simply love books. The only time I don't love books is when I have to box them up and move, but other than that, I love books. Even when I got in trouble as a kid, being 'sent to my room' just meant that I got to spend time with books. Prospero's is like going into a library that collided with a basement full of literature. Any one of the three floors has a zillion treasures to find on the shelves. Fiction, nonfiction, reference material, children's books, you can find anything for anybody in this space. The space was meant to hold books. Even the sliding wooden ladder that allows access to the top bookshelves screams vintage bookstore. If you're in the basement, then mind your head if you're tall like me, and then find one of the many recesses in which to hide and curl up with any number of books that you found. Parking can be tricky because it's 39th St., but you should expect that because we are not in the suburbs. Pricing is fine for used books and if you're looking for a highly organized inventory, then find your way to a chain. This is a BOOKstore , and you are paying reduced rates for great pieces that you just can't do without. read more

See all

It's pretty sad that a critical review from 18 years ago said exactly what I'll say after having checked this place out today. It smells. The prices are expensive. The selection is far, far from exhaustive. And it's hard to navigate. I finally had to leave without even checking out all the floors because it was so smelly of ... dust? mold? - and I NEVER leave a bookstore without looking at everything. It looks good from the outside! read more

What a cool bookstore! I loved the unique style and artistic flare everywhere and in nooks and crannies. Cool decor and a ton of books with good selections and variety of topics. The prices are pretty good on the paper backs and maybe a bit higher than I would expect with the hardbacks for used books but still affordable enough. The service was fine and we were able to check out immediately. We will definitely go back to peruse the many options when we have more time. read more

See all

When we walked in I was was taken aback by the sign that said 3 FLOORS OF BOOKS!! Then we explored all over, we saw the most beautiful and amazing floor to ceiling shelf's. Next we went to the top floor which had amazing seats and views from the windows. Lastly we went to the bottom floor and it was so cool. The ceilings were so tight and books in every crack and corner. read more

See all

WOW was I blown away by this place. A burgeoning reader (late bloomer), I find myself particularly drawn to bookstores and libraries these days. I find a sense of peace there, surrounded by knowledge and entertainment and others seeking it out in their private way. This place is near where I work so I notice it often and, after dining nearby, I had to stop in. After browsing around, it's hard for me to imagine anything they don't have. The main level is impressive enough, but they have a lower level that just keeps going and going. Filled with books new and old, DVDs, CDs, and I think I even saw a few vinyl records, I'm confident you'll find something you like here. The staff is incredibly nice as well. Thanks Prospero! read more

See all

Great find! A book store with a lot of flavors. Totally recommend it and I will be buying more books during my next visit. "A good bookshop is not just about selling books from shelves, but reaching out into the world and making a difference." ~David Almond read more

Super cool bookstore! I come here with my family and we stay for hours perusing the selections and reading.

This bookstore is SO COOL !!! Parking was a bit of a headache, but once we got in I was blown away !! There is so much character to this little bookstore, it has three floors covered in books, and all different vibes. Top floor even has a psychic, which is super quirky and cool~ the bottom floor is where it's at though, there are lots of wooden bookshelves COVERED in writing and notes and messages! It was so charming to see so many memories that were made though (and kind of hilarious some of the.. derogatory messages left too hahaha maybe don't let your kids read too close). I really love the writing about Linns lunch spot Such a lovely place, I wish I lived closer by so I could regularly visit and take in more of the character read more

See all

Absolutely wonderful old-school bookshop with a great selection & vibe. Friendly service, terrific prices & so many clever, cozy vintage bookstore touches. A stellar find for this tourist! read more

No parking. Not sure how anyone can even go there unless you live or work close. Terrible location

They only buy books for a dollar and upsell them hella do not recommend we came in with first edition books and he offered 3 bucks for them horrible deal read more

They have a great selection of all kinds of books, including a lot of wonderful titles off the beaten path for reasonable prices. It's also the best place to sell used books that I've found in the city-- Half Price Books doesn't come close, and that's where I've been going for years to clear out old reads. The staff is also super friendly and always happy to have a chat or give you recommendations. It's a community gathering place as well, as Prospero's hosts live music, readings, and other events. read more

Great selection of titles, quirky and fun layout, friendly and knowledgeable staff, excellent pricing!

This is a super cool bookstore in what looks to be an old house! They have a rolling ladder and some really neat creaky old steps to get to the attic/top floor! read more

Prospero's Books - Rolling ladder - Bookstores Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

See all

I was looking for books by a special author for a gift for my grandson. After checking both new and used bookstores I called and asked if Prospero's had any of the authors books and they did! I drove down that evening and they had 3 different novels set aside for me. On top was one I had hoped to find for at least three years. Needless to say I was very happy. I browsed around and selected several additional books. This is normal for a trip to Prospero's. The owners and clerks are friendly and knowledgeable about literature. It's a trek there from our home in the suburbs but always worth the trip. read more

Who doesn't love a great used bookstore? Especially one that has a broad selection and several different types of media. Well, that's Prospero's Books! While in town for the weekend I had a couple minutes to spend browsing the shelves of this old house (turned store). Right in the heart of Volker in Kansas City it's in a great location. And at three floors of items you are bound (pardon the pun) to find something! I was able to secure two books but the CD I've been looking for (long story, yes I have Spotify) eluded me. However, I still had fun wandering around for the better part of 20 or so minutes. Do they have EVERYTHING? Of course not. But they have a lot, the place is clean, and the owner (?) is friendly! (Pro Tip: I think they also buy used books!) Having a used bookstore in town is always a great thing and I wish I had one like Prospero's in my hometown! read more

Books on books on books! If you're looking for a bookstore to check out in the KC area, I would highly recommend Prospero's. There are three floors of very well-maintained and well-ordered books and other various media (DVDs, CDs, etc.) You would be hard pressed not to find something to take home with you. There are fabulous little nooks and crannies here to relax and read, mostly on the bottom floor. The store is situated near cafes, coffee shops, and other fun spots. It's a funky neighborhood all around. Will head here again next time I'm in the area! read more

See all

the cutest book shop! Super homey and a readers' paradise. Decorated with writing, posters, pictures, and newspaper clippings on almost every shelf gives it a unique and cozy atmosphere. Owners are so kind and use their business to promote other local businesses and performers! read more

See all

Quaint little book store in the historic Volker neighborhood on 39th and Bell. My daughter is a voracious reader and books are her love language so we had to visit while on vacation recently. We loved all the hidden alcoves / reading areas. It was really quiet! It took us a bit to figure out some type of organization but once we did, we narrowed our search before choosing our next reads. The only negative is the cuss words on the walls and and some "free form" comments. They apparently don't have an issue with you writing on the shelves. While I loved looking at the numerous quotes, the cuss words and sexual comments make this a non-family friendly place. I wouldn't take a child under 15 but that's me. My daughter commented how crude she found it. Give yourself plenty of time to look around. There are more used books than you can imagine. read more

See all

What a neat spot! 39th street is full of awesome local joints, and this is one to stop in for. Prospero's books store is filled with countless vintage, resale/used books from several genres. If you're willing to hunt, this is your place! I wouldn't recommend coming here if you're looking for the latest release in book world, because you won't find it. It's got tons of places to sit and hang! Also lots of markings all over the store from prior visitors; pretty fun! The service gave off a hippy man vibe lol. Glad we got to stop by! read more

See all

This is a beautiful space! The location and the building itself are gorgeous. And the downstairs area is super cool due to the low ceiling and crowded-feel that the plethora of books gives it. Other than this, I can't commend the bookshop for much. I have never been to a bookshop where the number of books in other genres is so disproportionate to the overwhelming number of fiction books! Litttle history, little biographies, little religion...but almost all fiction and science fiction books throughout the entire store. This was a significant letdown for me. read more

Nice independent bookstore. Most memorable thing for me was that the paperbacks in the basement were in really good condition, i'm used to used bookstores where the books are falling apart but these were in good shape. No idea how things are priced, i would have bought more stuff if i had known. Everything in the computer book section needs to be pitched, it was all out of date. read more

Awesome place. If you have books to sell, take them here instead of rainy day books or half price books.

Super cool aesthetic. You will not find new books here though. I have been a reader for quite some time and only recognized a handful of the thousands of books they had. read more

See all

Every visit to Prospero's feels fresh. We're always greeted by staff and the displays in the entry area always seem to be refreshed and showing new collections of titles. The building is unique and fun to visit with three stories of books and interesting features (see pictures). And while there's usually a few others strolling about, there's plenty of space to spread out and find your next book. If you're in the area, I'd highly recommend popping in for a visit. read more

Prospero's Books - Downstairs at Prospero's - Bookstores Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

See all

The atmosphere here is really cool! I will say though, your experience is entirely dependent on which day you go. Sometimes the person working is very nice and helpful. But when I went recently, I had an older guy that was kind of rude. He seemed annoyed by me asking for help and tried to get rid of me as soon as possible. The selection is pretty decent if you like old sci-fi and fantasy. Prices are alright depending on what you're buying. read more

This is a cool store for book lovers and music lovers who have a lot of time on their hands. Not saying the store is disorganized. It just takes some time to go through the shelves of books, especially in the basement. And, if you like used vinyl, they have that too. and even some CD's. Check out the see through floors, it's pretty cool. The staff is typically helpful in finding items for you. It looks like they get updated shipments in often so it's worth coming back here occasionally to see what surprises you can find. read more

Proprietor seemed nice.book stores and ones with character in particular. This one has character. You've got 3 stories of books to look through, the bottom floor is covered in customer graffiti not all of which may be appropriate for your child to see. For the rest of us, it adds character. Propietor seemed nice. The main floor is hardcover and TPB fiction, niche items upstairs, paperbacks in the basement. I almost always find a stack of books in any store like this but was almost out of luck with nary a book in hand when I stumbled on a shelf of vintage horror paperbacks including two I've had on my search list for over a year. Pricing is totally odd-- not listed anywhere, not matching what is penciled in a few of the books, not on a sign. Think it's assessed by the proprietor at check out. Paperbacks were all about $4 each--so I put a few back that weren't worth that. On the other hand, some were well worth that. So, a cool place to check out for sure. Only recommendation would be for a transparent pricing system and maybe a bit more organization--but that's cool either way. read more

I really like the fellas at the desk, they are some smooth operators. Friendly easy to chat with, helpful, gold star fellas gold star. They must be like the Godfathers of the establishments on 39th street. I've heard they been around for awhile, this is nice to hear in an age when sites like Amazon have even replaced Barnes and Nobel. As far as used book stores go every section is clearly labeled, neat and orderly. They have a really good selection of interest peeking books. Every nook and cranny of the place has something fun and bizarre to behold. They just finished the upstairs and it is stunning. Hard wood floors, a little kitchen, a table, comfy chairs to enjoy some good reading material in. Its a good venue for a cozy little get together, which I hear they have from time to time. They are locally owned and operated and if for no other reason than this they should get the lovin but they really stack up when it comes to holding their own in this niche. Love me some local bussiness. read more

See all

In a town with limited independent bookstores, and notoriously rude management at *certain* bookstores, Prospero's is a breath of fresh air. They have a variety of local, commercial and literary collections. Rare books, friendly and helpful staff and a top floor equipped for local events. They also have a really cool record collection and a lot of nice places to sit and read, or look out the window. On top of that, it's located on 39th street, which has a great brunch place and other cool places to hang out. Overall it's a great place to visit and you'll have fun all day! read more

We love books and were in KC for a few days. This is a great little bookstore. Three floors in an old house. Great selection. Fair prices. We found 2 books. Can't wait to come back next time in KC. read more

Best local book shop in KC! 3 levels of every book imaginable. Be prepared to be overwhelmed in the best way. Super quirky and has tons of character. read more

Prospero's Books - Exterior - Bookstores Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri