I've been a customer here for a long time - it's the only independent bookstore I know in the area. They're small and cozy, but offer a terrific selection covering a broad swath of genres. If they don't have it in stock, they'll gladly order it for you. When my kids were little, this was my go-to place for books for them. They host quite a few book clubs and have events on a fairly regular basis. In addition to books, they have a small selection of art supplies, magazines, games/toys, and reading supplies. Parking is on the street with meters, but I've never had any trouble finding a space. Definitely a small gem in Dubuque's downtown area. read more

Let me say at the outset, that I adore small independent bookstores. This place was awesome! There was a great banned book section and the saleslady showed us an interesting website that explains why (or at least the supposed reason) books were banned. They had a nice selection of books for all ages. A balance of best sellers, classics, and other books. To find such a gem in a small town in Iowa (without a big college) was a treat. read more

A very adorable bookstore. We enjoyed visiting. Visited there for the Iowa independent bookshop tour this summer.

The best bookstore in Dubuque County. There, I said it. I love this place, an independent shop that gets it in every way. Led by a great person in Dena, they have a wonderful selection of books and a terrific environment. Frequent in-person events that have appeal, and never be afraid to challenge your intellectual curiosity. I love the location, an easy walk from the Farmer's Market, and plenty of nearby parking with cool shops nearby. A lot of space to browse, and it won't disappoint. read more

While in Dubuque for a weekend getaway from Chicago, we stumbled upon this delightful bookstore and fell in love. From the moment we walked in the door, we were greeted with a warm welcome from the workers, bright and inviting colors, and a pleasant and engaging layout. We were immediately drawn in and ended up staying for about an hour. On top of the bookstore being wonderful in-and-of itself, it was also the bookstore's holiday open house. There was a holiday themed table of books and gifts, a table filled with delectable holiday cookies and treats (so good and homemade), free mimosas, and holiday gifts when you purchased a book! What a spectacular event!! I walked into the bookstore with the intent of buying a very obscure book if they happened to have it. Much to my surprise, they did! I was so pleased and had to buy it! As a result, I got to draw for a free gift and I got a solar powered mason jar light! My friend found an AMAZING 'GayBC' children's educational book that we had to get! She also got to draw for a gift. We absolutely LOVED this bookstore, it's community atmosphere, and incredible collection of books and supplies. We will definitely keep coming back here whenever we are in the area! If you've never been, make sure you get on over to River Lights Bookstore! read more

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LOVED this bookstore. They had a great selection of books--some I hadn't heard of before, and fun bookish items. Definitely don't miss this spot when you go to Dubuque. read more

We were visiting Galena, Illinois, and decided to go over the mighty Mississippi to Dubuque,Iowa. While there we visited the River Lights Bookstore. It is a lovely place. The lady behind the counter was so helpful in locating books I would enjoy. I purchased four and have now been introduced to three new authors. Great experience. read more

Charming little bookstore that's well worth a walkthrough when visiting Dubuque. I ended up with a cookbook that I've since been making delicious recipes from. This store partners with local book clubs and carries their books if you're interested along with information to participate if you elect to join. It's really neat to see readers partner with a local store that way. read more

I just ordered a stack of books for my cousin's family who is welcoming a new baby. Their staff emailed me within a couple of hours to let me know most of the books I chose are stored in their warehouse, which means it would take longer to deliver them than what's stated on their website. Then they ASKED me if this was okay or if I wanted to change my order. Holy smokes! In case any of you haven't experienced this before, this is what's known as customer service. To top it off, I told them in the "order comments" that it was a gift, so please let them know it came from me but don't include an invoice with prices, so they ASKED me if I wanted the books WRAPPED and told me about their wrapping paper. Mind blown! I declined the wrapping paper, but SO appreciate it being offered. Plus, there did not appear to be a gift wrapping fee. Unheard of, especially when an order is placed online. I've never been to River Lights and I don't currently live anywhere near Iowa (it popped up as the closest independent bookstore to my cousin), but I will seek out reasons to do more business with them and encourage you to do the same. read more

This review is for the location at 1098 Main Street--I tried to update that info in the listing but it didn't "take." I went to this bookstore a few weeks ago while visiting a friend. I think one of the things I like about small bookstores vs. a large bookstore is the reduced selection. When I'm browsing in a bookstore I can be almost overwhelmed by the selection and I don't find anything I want. In a good small bookstore, the proprietor will carefully select books to have in the store and offer the rest for order. This is one of those stores. I've come across more gems in these small shops than I do in big bookstores. I found a lot of books that piqued my interest and picked up 4 or 5 of them. They seemed to have a really good kids section, too, I saw a lot of my favorites from childhood and lots of new titles. I even got a really cute reusable bag to keep in my purse so I don't keep getting plastic bags at stores that I take home and then throw away. The salesperson was very nice and engaged all the customers in light conversation as they checked out. I also loved the bookstore cat sleeping in one of the chairs! read more

Charming, special, great selection. The staff are very helpful and friendly. Atmosphere is welcoming and comfortable to hang out in. Dogs are welcome too! read more

Stunningly beautiful bookstore that was inviting, cozy and visually embracing at every turn. Terrific collection and staff that couldn't have been more helpful or kind. What a gem! read more

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River Lights Bookstore reminds me "The Shop Around the Corner." They have a nice collection of the best reads and places to sit and read for a bit. Their children's section is small, but it does represent the best reads in children's/young adult literature. Everyone is friendly and helpful. Although I never met his or her myself, I hear a small doggie works there some days too. I think books on the Best Seller's list might be 20-30% off to boot! read more

Honestly the cutest book store on the planet!!!! The shelves are dark wood, curves and guides you through the amazing little rooms of floor to ceiling books. It is exactly what a neighborhood book store should be. Enchanting!!! And the staff is so friendly and helpful. Fun to drop in on a local author booking signing too...Mrs Gudenkauf is my favorite. read more

It's unanimous. Five stars all around. This is hands down the nicest independent bookstore I've been to in awhile. First, they have narrowed down choices, so while the choices are fewer, they are all good ones in just enough categories. The space is large and open and easy for shopping or browsing, unlike many urban bookstores which are claustrophobic and overstuffed. You can breathe in here. On one wall section, they feature the book of choice for all the local reading clubs or groups. So there is a clear community commitment here, too. The two women working were very helpful and friendly, too. The shop is located on a nice little block of Dubuque's Main St. with a cafe, restaurant and other small businesses to check out. Check it out if you love books. read more

I love going into River lights the staff is always so helpful and pleasant. No matter what i need be a new baby to a teenager grandchild they always have great suggestions. read more

So wonderful to have an independent book store in downtown Dubuque! Great selection, great staff, great service. Do support River Lights!

LoveLoveLove RL2E

I grew up going to a local bookstore and was thrilled to find River Lights when I moved to the area. It's a cozy shop with a great selection given the size. Plus they will order a book if they don't have it in stock - even over the phone. In my eyes a huge bonus - finding the occasional bookstore cat or dog visiting! read more

five star for sure, beautiful store, friendly helpful staff. lots of great reads. i brought my 3 teens, we each left with a book and we were all impressed with the shop read more

Fantastic little bookshop. The worst thing you can say about it is that it's small. And it is. But it's exceptionally well curated. You don't need to have a lot of books as long as you have the right books, and River Lights has a smart and up-to-date selection. Magazines, too, and friendly, helpful staff. This is a Dubuque don't-miss for sure. read more

support local!!!! Staff is friendly and helpful. River Lights supports the community and they have lots of events throughout the year. Pick up a coffee across the street at Jitters head over to River Lights to spend some time browsing their fabulous selection of books, magazines and miscellaneous nick nacks. read more

As a new resident of DuBuque, I found this bookstore early, and it help make the move here easier. The ladies who manage/own the store are friendly, knowledgeable and good people. They can find you books that are not in stock at a great price. They helped me research books on topics of interest for my children. They know me by name (refreshing). With this store, Jitterz, Salsas and Freddies all on the block, once can spend an enjoyable afternoon. I strongly recommended you check this place out, if you have not done so before. read more