 
Friday, August 9, 2025 | View in browser
Summertime and the Bookstores We Love !
There’s something magical about summer days: the warm sun, your favorite beverage in hand, and a great story that takes you somewhere new. Whether you're flipping pages at the beach, lounging in a shady park, or enjoying a quiet evening on the porch, summer is the season for slowing down and getting lost in a book. And lucky for us, Evanston is home to some incredible local bookstores that make finding your next read easy and fun!
Visit our bookstores for a very unique experience and explore before summer ends!
 Bookends & Beginnings located at 1620 Orrington Ave.
What a reviewer said: "I love this place!! It's a little local place, the staff are super nice, it's super cute. Two floors, no visible elevator but ASK THE STAFF!!! It is accessible!!! Cane user here, had no issues, staff were lovely. 10/10. Huge selection, lots of local art and trinkets. I'm such a fan!"
Squeezebox Books and Music located at 743 Main St.
What a reviewer said: "Squeezebox is my favorite independent book store and record shop. They have excellent offerings of both new and used books and records. Looking for a puzzle? They’ve got those too as well as other media and curiosities. Everything is reasonably priced. They deserve your business, Evanston!
I always find unexpected things I’m interested in every visit. And I am a big fan of the staff picks in books & music—never been steered wrong. Highly recommended."
 Booked Evanston located at 506 Main St.
What a reviewer said: "The little kids door was the first sign that we found a place to be repeat customers. The kids love it, they were excited got help finding books. I even got one for my toddler that we read several times at home and my niece excitedly joined a book club, as did I."
Also visit our other amazingly unique bookstores such as these local favorites.
National Thrift Shop Day - Aug 17
 Support your local thrift shops on August 17th! Thrift shops play an important role in the economy and have supported charitable efforts for decades. Our local thrift stores supporting shelters, education programs, sustainability projects, and more. Whether you're donating or shopping, your contribution helps keep these vital community resources thriving. Give secondhand items a second life at one of our stores.
 Bookends & Beginnings and the Guild Literary Complex present an afternoon of literary celebration. Immerse yourself in author readings, hands-on writing workshops, bookmaking, and live music in downtown Evanston. Whether you’re a seasoned writer, an avid reader, or simply looking to be inspired, this festival centers around a dynamic community space to connect, create, and celebrate the written word in all its forms.
Learn more about other activities and workshops.
 See below for local upcoming events! In addition, you can find the full calendar of summer events on the Enjoy Evanston website.
Enjoy: Events around town
Have an upcoming event?
Help us add to our calendar! We encourage you to submit all your upcoming events through our website.
Please review the following submission guidelines:
- Only public events may be listed
- Cannot be solely retail in nature
- Cannot be solely religious or political in nature
- Cannot be solely fundraisers or networking events
- Should be leisure time or recreational activities
Event eligibility is also evaluated on a case-by-case basis. At this time, we are only able to accept event listings in English.
Resources and Events for Businesses
ELEVATE YOUR GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING JOURNEY
August 12, 2025 | 11:00am – 12:00pm
Join the Government Contracting Beginner’s Bootcamp hosted by the Illinois Apex Accelerator at WBDC every Tuesday at 11:00 am; for four dynamic sessions, each packed with invaluable insights and strategies to help you navigate the world of government contracting with confidence. Learn more and RSVP for this virtual program.
 What do YOU enjoy about Evanston?
With ten unique business districts, there is something for everyone to enjoy! We want to hear about your faves. Tell us about your favorite places for health and fitness, your favorite store or art gallery to explore, or your favorite place to eat! Send us an email about your favorite spots at hello@enjoyevanston.com.
|
