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Whether it’s the latest thriller, whodunit, bodice ripper, or any other literary genre, metro bibliophiles can find what keeps them reading past their bedtimes at one of Omaha’s independent bookstores. While each shop has its own distinctive character (and in some cases, speciality), one thing is evident at all these locations: the people who work here adore books and are themselves passionate readers. That translates into carefully curated selections, ranging from current best-sellers to beloved classics, which you can browse in person while simultaneously supporting a local business.

1. THE BOOKWORM
2. THE NEXT CHAPTER
3. DUNDEE BOOK COMPANY
4. JACKSON STREET BOOKSELLERS
5. LEGEND COMICS

6. THE BOOK NOOK

6107 Maple St., Benson | 531.466.7665
144 S. 38th St., Blackstone | 531.466.8081
2115 S. 67th St., Aksarben Village | 531.999.2683
118 N. Washington St., Papillion | 531.999-1827

This independent and locally-owned bookstore boasts multiple locations conveniently located throughout the metro. Shelves are lined with thousands of new and gently-used hard and paperback books. The focus is on sustainability: 70% of the inventory is previously owned, with items required to be like new and come only from non-smoking homes. The shop’s ever changing assortments also include puzzles, t-shirts, games, DVDs, Blu-Ray movies, and more. A focus on “Local Originators” also places the spotlight on local authors and creators. No matter the part of town you’re in, you can find something to stack on your bedside table here, making the Book Nook a favorite location in all four of the neighborhoods it serves.

This article originally appeared in the October 2023 issue of Omaha Magazine.