The Haunted Bookshop in Iowa City is a beloved and iconic secondhand bookstore that has been serving the community for over 40 years․ Located at 219 North Gilbert Street, it is the oldest used bookshop in the city and boasts a collection of over forty thousand used, rare, out-of-print, and antiquarian titles across fifty different subject areas․
Specializing in poetry, literature, first and signed editions, and Iowa-related books, the Haunted Bookshop offers a wide range of genres, including history, philosophy, plays, children’s and young-adult literature, and literary nonfiction․ Whatever your literary interest, you are likely to find something that captivates you in this treasure trove of books․
The Haunted Bookshop is not only known for its extensive collection but also for its unique ambiance․ Housed in a historic building built in 1847, the shop’s rooms are named after patrons, cats, and even one of the ghosts said to reside within its walls․ Each room is dedicated to a different genre of books, providing visitors with a cozy and immersive reading experience․ Many visitors enjoy sitting, reading, and playing games within the shop’s inviting atmosphere․
The Haunted Bookshop prides itself on being a place of reuse, where books find new homes and are given a chance to be treasured once again․ With an average of 25,000 to 35,000 used books coming into the shop each year, the staff is kept busy cleaning, organizing, and adding to the ever-growing collection․ The owners aim to provide a haven for book lovers, scholars, collectors, artists, families, and children to discover literary gems and embark on exciting reading adventures․
Aside from the impressive selection of books, the Haunted Bookshop also embraces technology to make the shopping experience convenient․ They offer curbside pickup, delivery services, and have an online presence where customers can schedule appointments, place orders, and explore their inventory in the comfort of their own homes․
One of the unique aspects of the Haunted Bookshop is the presence of the shop’s two resident cats, Nierme and Logan․ These furry companions have become beloved fixtures of the store and provide an extra touch of warmth and companionship to visitors․
With its rich history, vast collection, and inviting atmosphere, the Haunted Bookshop is a must-visit destination for bookworms and literary enthusiasts in Iowa City․ Its dedication to preserving and sharing the magic of books makes it a cherished institution in the community․
So, if you’re seeking a unique and enchanting bookstore experience, step into the Haunted Bookshop, where the love for books and the joy of reading come alive․
