Volumes Bookcafe

“Such a lovely café! It’s really relaxing — like a library inside a coffee shop. You can read, rest, or even take a nap. It’s quiet with nice background music.”

Today was my first time visiting Volumes! Unfortunately i arrived about 30 minutes before they closed but with the little amount of time I had to explore, I found a lot of interesting aspects of the bookstore! They have a decent selection of books, a book side cozy corner for kids, all sorts of nooks and crannies to sit down with a good book or to enjoy something from the cafe that’s connected to Volumes. It's a peaceful comfy retreat and I’ll definitely be coming back!

This is such a charming coffee shop in a wonderful neighborhood. It truly has the potential to be a local favorite. All the right elements are already here; with just a few thoughtful adjustments, it could easily become the go-to spot in the neighborhood. A café like this shines when it feels light, welcoming, and full of good energy. Encouraging the baristas to engage in friendly small talk can make a big difference. A little warmth and connection go a long way. Customers love feeling welcomed and relaxed. When that energy originates from the top, it spreads throughout the staff and the entire space. Keeping the space spotless helps people feel comfortable staying longer. That includes the small details, like the grates under the pastry case, the chairs, and the areas beneath the furniture. The drinks and pastries are the heart of the café. The menu doesn’t need to be huge, just focused on quality. If every drink is excellent and the pastries are memorable, word will spread quickly. Classic options like plain croissants and chocolate chip cookies are always appreciated, but adding something a little different or locally unique will make the café stand out. Savory snack options are a good idea, too. As for packaged goods, consider choosing items that can’t easily be found elsewhere. People love discovering something new. A quick refresh of the music could also help set the right mood. Keeping the volume low but choosing thoughtful, modern playlists can make the atmosphere feel current and inviting. The pillows look a bit worn; replacing or removing them could give the space a fresher feel. Temperature and comfort also play a big role. On warm days, lowering the shades and improving air circulation will make the café much more enjoyable for guests who want to relax or work. The soft chairs are a great touch, though the metal ones can be a little tough for long stays. Perhaps a few more comfortable options would encourage people to linger. Finally, extending the hours could attract both the early-morning crowd and those looking for a cozy evening hangout. Opening earlier for commuters and staying open later, especially on weekends, could really boost traffic. With just a few of these updates, this café could easily become one of the most popular spots in the city.

Super cozy Cafe and bookstore, the main entrance is shared with the store next door and could be missed if you aren't looking. Inside the Cafe is to the left, fairly standard menu with a few special drinks. There are board games and a few tables. Only complaint would be that at the time we were there they were out of some staples. Book side has a cozy corner for kids in the back and one in front by Milwaukee. Selection was decent and there's definitely a few things I may come back for in the future. Worth a stop if you're in the neighborhood!

A cozy and inviting bookstore café with a wide selection of books and plenty of seating. The drinks were solid, especially the oat cinnamon latte that I found well flavored and refreshing. A perfect spot for relaxing with a drink and a good browse.

I recently attended a book release event held at this store. Over 60 minutes I interacted with the owner three times. Each time she was incredibly rude to me. I can't assume she was having a bad day because she was at least polite to the patrons around me. I'm glad to see they are closing in January 2026. Maybe the rest of the staff can ditch the rotund scowling lady and open a new book store that has character and an interesting selection. Just a thought.

Small cafe with an interesting selection of books. Coffee wasn't that great, but overall experience was positive.

I usually do not like to tell people about my favorite hidden spots to relax in the City...but I do like to support Independent Book Stores! Volumes is a treasure! It has a great selection of books, and an adorable cafe. It's a peaceful, comfy retreat from the hustle and bustle of Wicker Park. Don't forget to leave with a book or a postcard from a great local Photographer!

Cute bookstore with a coffee shop in wicker park. The shop has tables set up making it quite and easy place to work and get stuff done. I had the shades of oak and honey latte and it was delicious! There is a kids area with kids books and an area for them to sit as well.

Love this cute cafe! Great space with a great vibe and decor, lots of seating. Just ordered a matcha latte, I forgot to ask for no sweetener but otherwise it was great. I didn't get to check out the bookstore but I love the concept.

Had a great time perusing the wonderful selection of good reads at Volumes! Friendly and helpful staff

Super cozy Cafe and bookstore, the main entrance is shared with the store next door and could be missed if you aren't looking. Inside the Cafe is to the left, fairly standard menu with a few special drinks. There are board games and a few tables. Only complaint would be that at the time we were there they were out of some staples. Book side has a cozy corner for kids in the back and one in front by Milwaukee. Selection was decent and there's definitely a few things I may come back for in the future. Worth a stop if you're in the neighborhood!

What a beautiful bookstore! The atmosphere is so calming, beautiful and relaxing and it's in such a great location on Milwaukee. It gave me 'shop around the corner' vibes and felt very welcoming and had a great sense of community. We grabbed some coffees, perused some books, and were able to grab a board game to play while we sat in their little seating area enjoying our coffees. The inventory is smaller but it's hard not to find something that would interest you. They have story times on Tuesdays and Saturdays for the little ones which was so cute.

Came across this coffee shop and it is so cute and unique!! It is both a book store and a coffee shop. There is a variety of seating and seemed like a great place to do work since it was quiet. Lots of cute decor that fit the aesthetic. They also have board games which is fun. And the coffee was SO good. I got a hazelnut mocha (can't remember what the actual name of the drink was) and it was delicious. 10/10!!

I've been eyeing up this adorable bookstore for MONTHS and finally caught it during open hours! This place is so welcoming. From its tall ceilings to its little coffeeshop to its abundant chairs, this is the kind of local bookstore I love. I loved all the recommendations on books around the store and plan to be back soon!

Super cool bookstore and cafe! They have a wide selection and a great staff that is always willing to happen. I didn't get a chance to grab any food or drinks from the cafe, but I will definitely try it out when I'm in the area.

As a lover of books, discovering new book stores are my new rage. Walked past it in Wicker Park and had to enter. It was like a little library, cozy couches, and a cafe. They had clearance books and a pretty decent selection I thought. Loved the paper notes with recommendations. Can't wait to return!

If you're in Chicago, please visit Wicker Park for tacos at Antique taco, books and coffee at Volumes and records and CDs at Reckless Records. This area of town is cute and trendy with a variety of shops and eateries. We landed at Volumes Bookcafe to kill some time before our train. They offer a wide selection of books, a place to sit and read or work and a full coffee bar. The staff were helpful and very friendly. They also sell used books. I picked up two fiction titles for 8 bucks each! The vibe is relaxing and inviting.

Such a cute place with so much to offer. The iced chai with almond milk is a nice side to a good read.

Coffee and books what more could you want! A wonderfully curated selection of books! I always find something I like in the recommendations. A local spot worth visiting multiple times.

A cozy bookstore with a little cafe! The cafe is pretty limited but there's nice seating to work or read and a good selection of books. They have both new and used books and the used books are really a bargain! I would definitely recommend stopping in.

Cute vibes. Stopped in one rainy day to find a specific book but they were actually very small inventory for a bookstore. What I did enjoy tho were the cafe and chill book reading vibes. They have chairs for you to sit and read in which was a nice activity on a rainy day. Will be back for the vibes but will either bring my own book or call ahead to see if they have the one I want in store next time. If you're looking to browse a bookstore, I wouldn't recommend this place for that specifically as they don't have many books on display.

Great shop and love the new location! Quiet, chill and spacious - perfect atmosphere. Had a first date here and 5 years later, we just got married. Anyone who finds the selection or vibe offensive, is exactly the kind of person who should be reading the type of books on display.

While it isn't fully open yet, I greatly enjoyed my time at this bookstore. Ever since Borders went out of business I've been missing a bookstore where you would actually feel welcome to read some of the books for sale, and this place really filled that niche well. Their cafe wasn't ready for operation when I visited with my family, but the staff were kind, knowledgeable, and interested and the book selection was thoughtful and well done. I look forward to a repeat visit once things are fully in swing.

I had some time to kill and popped into this place. Had a great cappuccino and browsed a really well curated selection of titles. I'll definitely be back!

I found this book cafe through an article online. If love Moore information about the book club . I'm in California

In addition to being a great bookstore, they host a storytelling event on the second Wednesday of the month. They are always gracious and accommodating and make an inviting event space.

I love this bookstore! I was able to find some like-new used books in perfect condition for half the price. There are lots of cute magnets, totes, puzzles, etc. and lots of space for reading. It's cozy and filled with a great selection. Highly recommended.

Every day I become less and less literate, I can feel my brain melting, it hurts, so I'm so glad Volumes is back!!! I found 2 great books which will helpfully keep me somewhat lucid. Thank you Volumes! I also love that they have coffee