Wicker Park bookworms eager for arrival of Barnes & Noble store

Noel State Bank
Barnes & Noble is slated to move into the old Noel State Bank Building (center), located near Milwaukee and North avenues in Wicker Park. Photo credit Provided Photo

CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - A major book store is preparing to move into an iconic Wicker Park space, and that’s getting positive reviews from some neighbors.

In just a week, the Noel State Bank building at 1601 N. Milwaukee Ave. will become a Barnes & Noble.

“I think it’s cool to see more of them. It kind of brings back that nostalgia factor a little bit,” Abi told WBBM.

The bookstore opened a Lincoln Park location earlier this year, and, while some have expressed concern about smaller, independent shops losing business, Abi said she’s not one of them.

“If you want to find a specific book, maybe Barnes & Noble is better for that because it’s a little bigger,” Abi added. “But, if you want more of a low-key, quiet vibe, you can still go to the local bookstores. I think it’ll be a good thing for the neighborhood in general and seeing how this old building is being used. I hope it’s a good thing all around.”

Walgreens moved out of the three story, 26,000 square foot space in early 2023.

"I'm just glad the building is getting put to use," said Abi.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Provided Photo