Underground Books, one of the few African American bookstores left in the country, opened in 2003 as part of 40 Acres Complex at Broadway and 35th Street. Without a library in Oak Park, Underground Books serves a literary hub for the neighborhood. 

When the pandemic hit, Underground Books closed its doors but found it to be the perfect timing for a renovation! Over the last few months the team has worked hard to put in new floors, paint, signage and more. The bookstore will reopen its doors in the beginning of October with a whole new look and feel and more books than ever! It will also be launching 40 Acres Market which will sell a variety of speciality gifts by African American artists and businesses along with snacks and beverages.

Underground Books is excited to continue programs like book signings, lectures, poetry readings, children’s story time and community workshops, and looks forward to seeing new and returning customers at its relaunch! 

The bookstore is now 100% online and has received a moving amount of support locally and nationally during the pandemic. Along with the re-opening, Underground Books has launched a t-shirt campaign to help support the store. You can buy your t-shirts and books here, or pop in the store to check out the new merchandise and look!