Bookman’s Alley

This Summer, Traveling Might Be Out of The Question...
But Here’s An In-Town Oasis For Your Mind

Lets face it; we’re in this together.
Gas prices are at a criminal level, the Euro is killing the almighty once-was dollar and the attitude about today’s economic climate is overheating with more talk about the things we don’t need to remind you of. The last thing you want to do during these precious, glorious days of summer is to compromise your freedom or fun so here’s a in-town adventure perfect for just you, you and your loving other, and or the kids.

Make your way to Bookman’s Alley and The Alley Gallery in Evanston.
But, before you dart out, make note, these hidden gem are neatly tucked away at 1712 Sherman in the alleyway just north of Design Within Reach. They’re easy to miss, so look for the sign (pictured above) and you will have successfully reached two genuine NorthShoreInsider treasures!

What makes Bookman’s Alley so special is the unraveling discovery of what’s within.

As expected there’s an abundant collection of rare and used books categorized into 87 classifications and labeled with handcrafted signage. Each pocket is carefully staged with vintage memorabilia to match its subject matter lends itself to the ultimate in “flea market collector” eye candy.

Owner Roger Carlson has thoughtfully outfitted Bookman’s Alley with plenty of comfortable seating for lingering, losing yourself to whatever turns your page -- be it history, sports, arts or your classic novel. Think of Bookman’s Alley as the solution to beating the heat hot or the remedy to a rainy day while everyone else is headed to the movies.

Located directly across the lot to Bookman’s Alley is its perfect sequel, The Alley Gallery. Equally charming but of a different ilk, The Alley Gallery is the ideal source for vintage, museum, and special one of a kind art/photography posters. Buy a poster and have these experts set you up with one of their 3,000 custom frames or bring in your own art piece and they’ll do it right.

As antique-chic as Bookman’s Alley but with a different twist, the Alley Galley has its own special employee of the month, Jessica the parrot and we promise... the most unique and creatively engineered ice tea dispenser you’ve ever seen.
The tea’s pretty good, but the experience packs the punch.

Bookman's Alley
1712 Rear Sherman Ave
Evanston, IL 60201
(847) 869-6999

The Alley Gallery
1712 Sherman Ave
Evanston, IL 60201
(847) 475-1535
www.thealleygallery.com

Loren Greiff