Rust Belt Books

WOW! What an improvement. Now this is a really nice store. I was not a fan of the old location at all. It’s still a little daunting to find something specific; sections are labeled but within each area, the shelves are labeled with tiny stickers. But I will definitely be back when I have more time to get lost and venture through everything.
The owner has crafted these rolling bookshelf doors (see pic), which can close off the back area — a space that could be used for small performances or readings, etc. It’s really cool. Also, there are two friendly cats that live here! A large front window allows for good light. This is a completely different atmosphere from the old, dimly lit, claustrophobia-​inducing location on Allen. I really look forward to coming back when I have more time.

Rust Belt Books’ new location is awesome. It’s part of Grant St’s change, but they are very conscious and supporting of changing things the right way. With a foreign language section displayed at the front of the store, they are ready to be part of the community of Grant St. (They definitely could use more donations for Burmese and other languages).
They have a performing space in the back that actually has two bookshelves that fan out to create a bigger door. Looks awesome. One of the owners also said that they might be interested in holding more events and community work there — which sounds great — perhaps meetings and other get-​togethers for communal gatherings.
The books — oh yes, the books — things seem smaller, but that is, in part, because things are less claustrophobic than the old location. It is still cramped and cluttered — a used book store will never be worth it’s weight in books if it isn’t cluttered — but it is much better lit and organized (they just moved in!). The large window brings in a lot of great, natural light and the overhead lights are much better. Organization is great, with the same interesting sections and selections. If you were worried about dust, now is the time to go — because everything is totally clean. Again, though, dust is a hallmark of a good used bookstore. Some books aren’t meant to circulate, but have a life of their own in the store.
Anyway, pay a visit! Between Rust Belt Books and West Side Stories (just down the street), I have found some great deals on some hard to find and popular books — and great for gifts, since the selection is so detailed! Especially great for the theoretically minded~