About the Store
Underground Books, founded in summer 2003 by St. HOPE (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit), anchors the 40 Acres Cultural Center in Oak Park. After the community lost its only library in the 1970s, St. HOPE’s founder, Kevin Johnson, made it his mission to restore local access to books.
Dubbed the “literary hub of Oak Park,” Underground Books offers classes, author talks, book signings, poetry readings, children’s programs, and pop-ups featuring Black-owned vendors—ensuring every child can explore, learn, and grow.
Oak Park native Georgia “Mother Rose” West (who passed in 2024), Kevin Johnson’s mom, launched this vital resource; today, it stands as a beloved community pillar.
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Note: We make every effort to ensure this list is accurate, but it is an all-volunteer effort. Please contact the bookstore directly to confirm hours and availability before visiting.