Barnes & Noble Expands in Chicago with Four New Stores, Reviving Historic Wicker Park Bank Building

Barnes & Noble is making a triumphant return to the Chicago market with the opening of four new stores this summer. One of the most notable locations will be the former Walgreens flagship building in Wicker Park, where the world's largest retail bookstore chain plans to set up shop. Additionally, new stores will also be opening in Lincoln Park, Northbrook, and Oswego, bringing a much-needed literary presence to these communities.

Barnes & Noble Expands to Chicago with Exciting New Locations

This strategic move comes after several years of being absent from the Chicago city limits, leaving many residents longing for a neighborhood bookstore. According to Janine Flanigan, Barnes & Noble's senior director of store planning and design, the decision to expand was driven by the belief that every community needs a bookstore. She further added that the Chicago market was sorely missed.

Despite closing its downtown Naperville location earlier this year, Barnes & Noble boasts an extensive network of stores throughout the Chicago area. With existing locations in various suburbs such as Skokie, Schaumburg, and Oak Brook, the bookstore chain has continually catered to the reading needs of avid book lovers in the region.

A New Chapter Unfolds for Barnes & Noble in Wicker Park

Barnes & Noble is set to make a splash in Wicker Park as it secures the entire 26,133-square-foot space formerly occupied by Walgreens. With plans to occupy around 16,000 square feet, the renowned bookseller is still deliberating whether to take up residence across all three floors.

The location, previously housing the Noel State Bank, held Walgreens as its tenant until January 2023. The store was known for its historical charm, boasting features that paid homage to its storied past, such as the Vitamin Vault tucked away in the basement.

The Closure of Wicker Park Walgreens

Built back in 1919, this building holds a special place in the heart of Chicago. As part of a city landmark district, its historical features must be preserved, ensuring that future generations can appreciate its unique charm. The proud owner of this treasured property is Convexity Properties, a subsidiary of the renowned DRW Holdings, a Chicago-based trading firm.

After undergoing a full renovation in 2012, this historical gem was ready to serve the community once again. Seeking new opportunities, the space was recently marketed for sublease by the reputable Shai Wolkowicki of ShaiTown Realty Group and the dynamic duo from Canvas Real Estate, Anthony Campagni and Elan Rasansky. Their efforts unlocked the chance for Barnes & Noble to make its mark in Wicker Park.

Laying claim to approximately 8,000 square feet, the new Barnes & Noble in Lincoln Park is set to breathe new life into a location once occupied by Urban Outfitters. But the story doesn't end there. Creating a ripple of excitement in the suburbs, Barnes & Noble is also planning to open new stores in Northbrook and Oswego. The Village Square of Northbrook shopping center, formerly home to Old Navy, will welcome one of these book havens, while the other will find its place in the Prairie Market retail center, which once housed a DSW shoe store.