John K. King Used & Rare Books stands as a bibliophile’s dream, a place that feels wonderfully out of step with the modern world, as if plucked straight from a Wes Anderson film. Unlike contemporary bookstores, our main Detroit store, along with our smaller Ferndale branch, embraces a pre-digital charm with a stock not cataloged by computer. This analog approach might seem unconventional, but it’s part of the unique experience we offer.
Navigating our labyrinthine collection is made easy by our team of knowledgeable staff, instantly recognizable in their red aprons. They are always ready to assist, ensuring you can locate your desired literary treasures within our vast holdings. Upon entering, you’ll find store maps at the front counter, and conveniently placed telephones throughout the store allow you to quickly connect with the front desk for any inquiries. Each floor boasts a dedicated manager who diligently organizes books by category, subcategory, title, and author, maintaining order within what might initially appear as delightful chaos. A helpful tip for browsing: within each category, books generally progress towards the windows. For those with mobility concerns, elevators are readily available – simply ask any staff member for assistance in reaching your preferred floor.
To truly appreciate the immersive, wall-to-wall book experience that awaits, we invite you to explore our Interactive Store Map. However, if your search proves elusive, please don’t hesitate to ask! We possess a substantial reserve of “duplicates” in storage, including an impressive collection of extra Art books. All of this culminates in a browsing adventure that encourages you to happily lose yourself within aisles brimming with literature and diverse ephemera across four captivating floors. And don’t worry about time – we’ll gently guide you out when it’s time to close, ensuring you don’t miss out on the world outside the books.
