Starting as a single storefront on the 3200 block of North Broadway in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago,[6] the store expanded to occupy three storefronts and became one of its biggest independent bookstores. It is one of the oldest independent bookstores in Chicago and one of the only bookstores in the city focused on LGBTQ literature, "viewed as somewhat of a radical business plan"[7] since its opening in the 1980s. Over the years the bookstore has become known for its chalkboard quotes[8] and "its large selection of LGBTQ titles."[9] Unabridged Bookstore has specialized in selling well-known and obscure gay and lesbian literature.[10]
Unabridged has an unparalleled sale book section, and an award-winning children's section, an extensive travel room, and offers a great selection of fiction and poetry. For more than 35 years,[11] Unabridged Bookstore also carries LGBTQ literature and has been recognised as one of the 8 best indie bookstores in the United States.[12]
Voted "Best Bookstore in Chicago 2015" by Chicago Magazine,[13] Unabridged remains an iconic institution in the Lakeview neighborhood.
