Burr Ridge Welcomes Barbara's Bookstore

For Burr Ridge residents needing a little retail therapy, the Village Center's newest addition, Barbara's Bookstore, provides a nurturing option. 

The Chicago-based independent bookseller held the grand opening Sept. 11 of its newest location at 810 Village Center Dr. The opening coincided with Burr Ridge's Art on the Green, which was held Sept. 11 and 12 on the Village Green.

"We're really happy to be here," said co-manager Chip Gambill. "People have been wanting a book store in this community for a long time."

After more dining options, a bookstore was the second most requested business among Burr Ridge shoppers, said Kimberly Mans, property manager of the Burr Ridge Village Center. The Village Center is home to about 30 businesses, most of which are clothing stores. Barbara's is currently the only bookstore.

Barbara's not only fills a niche for shoppers, said Mans, "It fills a cultural void."

"I think it's a great idea," said Burr Ridge resident Tracy Izhaky. A new mother, Izhaky said she is looking forward to finding books to read with her baby.  

And she'll find plenty of options at the new store. 

The Burr Ridge location is catering to the many young families and grandparents living in the area who may want to buy books for young readers. The store features a wide teen and children's selection, including toys and puzzles. 

For adults, a community room for book discussions and author signings is scheduled to open in December. In the meantime, there are popular fiction and nonfiction books, off-beat poetry, plenty of cookbooks and household items from retailer Casa Nova ready for browsing. Barbara's is also the exclusive retailer of the French publisher Assouline, which publishes high-end coffee table books.  

Speaking of coffee, Barbara's offers complimentary coffee from Wheaton-based coffee retailer I Have a Bean. Getting cozy with a coffee on one of the leather couches by the fireplace is encouraged.

"We invite people to come in, get a coffee and sit down and relax," said Gambill. "It's their space." 

Barbara's Bookstore is open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.