Prairie Lights Books & Cafe

I like Prairie Lights since it is one of the best non-chain bookstores around. Great selection of books and like a real bookstore, crammed all the way up to the ceiling. The staff is great, willing to order any book you want and famous for the odds and ends answers to what may seem like Trivia Pursuit questions to some, but are important matters to a book lover. You will find someone that can help you with whatever question you have related to reading and books. I also like their author nights. more

I should be honest and upfront here. I don't like going downtown unless I absolutely have to. It can be a real exercise in patience to shop downtown but I DO make the trip when I am looking for a certain book or when I need the ambiance of a small, homey bookstore. Prairie Lights does both of those things....it is small, friendly and it has a wonderful selection of books, many which you would have a hard time finding elsewhere in Iowa City. Book readings, visiting authors and other events are planned throughout the year so check in often to see if anything or anyone) interests you. Conveniently located on 15 South Dubuque Street, this is another store that is an easy walk from campus. In fact, I would suggest to all who are interested in this bookstore that they do walk, parking can be a bear at the best of times in downtown Iowa City and a nightmare when the students are here in full force! Give this bookstore a try, you won't be sorry.....it's a great addition to downtown Iowa City! more

Conveniently located on 15 South Dubuque Street, this is another store that is an easy walk from campus. In fact, I would suggest to all who are interested in this bookstore that they do walk, parking can be a bear at the best of times in downtown Iowa City and a nightmare when the students are here in full force! more

This is a simply amazing place to be if you love books. They have everything from non-fiction to romance, poetry to children's books. There are regular readings by prominent authors that provide an opportunity for insightful discussion. The staff is friendly and eager to offer recommendations if you're searching for something new to read. more