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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
2501 S 90th St. | 402.392.2877
A perennial favorite since 1986 with Omaha readers, this bookstore is a family business known for its vast selection of books on a broad range of topics. Helmed by knowledgable staff who are ready with enthusiastic recommendations, The Bookworm is also popular for its regular book talks, which feature international, national, and local authors on a broad range of topics. Book clubs, children’s story times, history groups, philosophy discussions, and themed events keep book lovers connected. The Bookworm has over 100 active registered book clubs with 1,200 members, who receive special discounts, such as a 20% discount on books designated for discussion. The Baker’s Dozen program gives participants a credit equal to the average price of one book after purchasing 12.
2. THE NEXT CHAPTER
2508 Farnam St. | 531.218.7996
One of the most recent additions to Omaha’s book scene, The Next Chapter opened in 2019 and quickly established itself as a Midtown community cornerstone. It’s not surprising given that the owner, Shelly Mutum, was following in the footsteps of her parents, who owned Prairie Books and Gifts in Hastings, Nebraska, for over 40 years. Mutum brought that familial expertise to Omaha when setting up her shop, which boasts an impressively wide-ranging selection. Book clubs are popular with patrons with themes like “BookT & Wine,” “Young Adult,” “Romance,” “LGBTQ,” and “Sci Fi/Fantasy.” The cozy shop also offers wine, beer, and cocktails to patrons who can sip and drink on the patio during warm months or cozy up to the fire during winter. Readers are also welcome to bring well-mannered dogs to accompany them while browsing the stacks.
3. DUNDEE BOOK COMPANY
4915 Underwood St. | 402.281.3315
This quaint bookstore started in 2017 as a “roving bookstore” that was transported on a handcart made of rescued barn boards. The owners, Ted and Nicole Wheeler, selected titles for events to amplify the experience of each specific place where the cart stopped. In 2020, the cart graduated to its own brick-and-mortar in the heart of Dundee, where the Wheelers continue to share their love of contemporary fiction, international literature, and books that help change the world, as well as an expanded children’s section that embodies that same ethos. They’re more than qualified to make those selections. Ted is a resident assistant professor in Creighton University’s College of Arts and Science’s English Department and himself the author of three books, including the best-selling novel Kings of Broken Things. Nicole is the web and eCommerce product manager at the McGraw Hill publishing company.
4. JACKSON STREET BOOKSELLERS
1119 Jackson St. | 402.341.2664
Nestled in the heart of the Old Market, Jackson Street Booksellers has been buying and selling used, rare, and out-of-print books since 1993 and has developed a legendary reputation for stocking hard-to-find tomes. This large, general shop carries thousands of titles, often stacked floor to ceiling in every corner, with a special interest in scholarly titles with a focus on subjects like art, literature, architecture, design, history, science, and philosophy. With over 50 years of combined experience, the expert staff provides knowledgeable and comprehensive book assessments in the Omaha metro area and can help patrons find just about anything—whether that’s a cookbook from the Great Depression, a 19th-century military atlas, or a translation of an ancient Chinese epic poem. Settle in on one of the comfortable reading chairs and prepare to revel in flipping through vintage pages.
5. LEGEND COMICS
6068 Maple St. | 402.391.2377
For over a decade and a half, Legend Comics has been providing locals with access to tens of thousands of comic book and graphic novel titles, whether its the newest release or a sought-after back issue. The 2014 winner of an Eisner Award for best comic book retail store in the world (the industry equivalent of an Academy Award), Legend has it all: superheroes and villains, children’s selections, horror, mythology, and more—plus unique and rare editions. Previously in a temporary spot on Leavenworth Street after having to vacate its Elmwood location, Legend has since established a permanent storefront in Benson. Don’t miss their Legend “Picks of the Week” for the hottest comic and graphic novel suggestions or ask a knowledgable staffer for a trade recommendation. Creator’s Workshops also provide opportunities for writers and artists to come together and support one another in refining their craft.
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.
—booknookbookstores.com
This article originally appeared in the October 2023 issue of Omaha Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
