This book lover’s wet dream. Miles and miles and miles of finds. Nooks and crannies for (literally) days. Titles to satiate most seekers. And unmatched service at every step, one—a camera-shy, tattooed-beauty, Andy (I believe)—who could pass for Joe Dallesandro’s grandson. The hub of Detroit.
JOHN K. KING USED & RARE BOOKS 901 Lafayette Blvd. Detroit 313-961-0633
see also: Secret pleasures
Photos: KIRBY
Add a few comfy sofas, an espresso machine and a blender, and this is what I imagine heaven may look like. This is now on my list of vacation destinations!
As a native Metro Detroiter, now transplanted to New England, your photos set me salivating like the teenage bibliophile I one was. I spent many a happy day–and it takes a whole day, no question–in JKK in my youth, and it’s always a mandatory stop when I’m back in the area. (I even remember Sparky, the long-departed resident dog.) The mark of a true King die-hard is a visit in January, when it’s colder in the far reaches of the upper floors than it is outside.
see also: http://motorcityblog.blogspot.com/2010/02/photo-essay-john-king-used-books.html
Made my pilgrimage to King Books from home in Lapeer. Not a one-day stand place, I’ll be back. Liked the sign on the stair doors telling of warming stations on the 1st, 2nd, and 4th floors. Had a good lunch at Motz Burgers down on Fort St after.
I just discovered this place earlier today. I was in bookstore heaven, and will be back every chance I get! But I’ll make sure I have mittens in my pockets next time.
My whole life in and around Detroit and have never been there, Coming up, Mass at St.Aloysious and shop at John King.