PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

Bookstores are a dime a dozen these days, it seems. But bookstores like Transitions Bookplace in Chicago are few and far between. Located at 1000 W North Ave, this store has gone beyond the traditional theme of bookstores that carry selections in categories such as fiction, biography, home & garden, and so on. Transitions inventory is separated into more esoteric collections like growth and transformation, angels, astrology, Buddhism, inspiration, etc.

The idea that became this gorgeous, 6000 square foot store came to owner Gayle Seminara-Mandel and her husband in 1989. Disillusioned by their day jobs, the couple decided on a whim to open their own bookstore. Originally located in a 400 square foot converted garage, they experience an overwhelming response from the community, which lead to the opening of the store at its current location.

Upon walking in, you know you’re not in any regular bookstore. The ambience is peaceful, but intellectual, and is heightened by new age music playing lightly throughout. To the left is a café, serving delectable sandwiches and coffee creations. This is a great place to sit down and browse through books.

And while books are the emphasis here, that is by no means where it stops. Transitions also stocks music CD’s, cassettes, and videos, and boasts a collection of DVD on subjects like conscious living, wellness, self-help & self-empowerment, and mythology & comparative religion. There’s a gift section as well, which carries a variety of gift options that range from tarot decks to aromatherapy oils.

Transitions also holds author events and workshops every month. Author events are usually free and workshops are offered at a discounted rate to members of the book club, which currently has more than 3500 members.

So next time you’re in the mood to pick up a book that you won’t want to put down, skip Borders or Barnes and Noble. Come to Transitions, but plan to make it an all-day thing. Once you get here, you won’t want to leave!