In bookstores' L.A. heyday, shops were as ubiquitous as a certain coffee chain is today. But we're no slouches today, even if the internet removed many stores' physical presences.
From Madrid to Cork to Shanghai, some of the most revered old bookshops are closing doors as they face pressure from big chains and e-readers. But our bookworm writer found some small signs of hope.
The nearly two-score indie bookstores scattered around the Windy City and its suburbs are succeeding by leaning into their unique qualities and filling distinct niches.