Old Book Barn - Forsyth, IL

Attraction: Old Book Barn
Location: 126 S Route 51, Forsyth, IL 62535
Industry: Bookstore
Website: https://www.facebook.com/oldbookbarn

Spanning 14,000 square feet with over 250,000 books under one roof, this emerald-green warehouse transforms casual browsers into dedicated treasure hunters.

Old Book Barn defies every stereotype about cluttered used bookstores or pretentious literary shops. Instead, you’ll find an impossibly well-organized wonderland where rare first editions sit alongside popular paperbacks, and friendly feline residents occasionally nap among the towering shelves.

Established in 1985 after originally operating from an actual barn since 1981, this Central Illinois institution has quietly become a destination that draws visitors from as far as St. Louis and Chicago.

The sheer scale is overwhelming in the best possible way—you’re looking at one of the Midwest’s largest new and used bookstores, housed in a building that’s impossible to miss along Route 51.

Book Lover’s Paradise

Genre Variety: You’ll discover every possible category imaginable, from bestsellers and biographies to cookbooks, classical fiction, self-help titles, and specialized subjects like spirituality and history.

The children’s section alone could keep young readers entertained for hours, while collectors will appreciate the rare and vintage books tucked throughout the vast space.

Hard-to-Find Treasures: Comic book enthusiasts especially love browsing the extensive collection of late 70s and early 80s comics that any serious collector would treasure. You’ll also find Victorian memorabilia, CDs, vinyl records, and DVDs scattered throughout this literary emporium.

Organization Excellence: Despite the massive inventory, everything stays remarkably well-organized by genre and topic, making it easy to find what you’re seeking while still allowing for delightful discoveries.

Creative table displays and book art installations throughout the store showcase the passionate attention to detail that makes this place special.

New and Used Selection: While the bulk of inventory consists of used books, you’ll find new releases and can inquire about special orders for titles not currently in stock. They offer store credit for books you bring in that meet their quality standards.

Peek Behind These Stone Walls Into One Of Chicago’s Most Beautifully Preserved Gilded Age Homes

Discover More

Atmosphere & Character

Warehouse Charm: The emerald building creates an instantly recognizable landmark that bibliophiles simply can’t miss. Inside, the warehouse setting feels more like exploring a literary cave system than shopping at a traditional bookstore. You’ll immediately notice that distinctive “old book smell” that book lovers cherish.

Feline Friends: Occasionally, you might discover a friendly cat sleeping peacefully among the book stacks, adding a wonderfully personal touch to your browsing experience. These resident cats contribute to the relaxed, homey atmosphere that makes each visit feel special.

Browsing Experience: Most visitors find themselves easily spending over an hour wandering through the endless shelves, reading snippets here and there, and always discovering something interesting and unexpected. The layout encourages exploration, with cozy nooks and multiple pathways through the literary landscape.

Practical Considerations

Pricing Value: Prices remain very reasonable throughout the store, making it possible to build a substantial personal library without breaking the bank. This used book warehouse truly delivers incredible deals on both vintage classics and contemporary titles.

Accessibility: Plenty of parking makes your visit hassle-free, and the location along Route 51 provides easy access whether you’re driving from nearby Decatur or making a longer journey. The store operates Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sundays from midnight to 5:00 PM.

Perfect for Road Trips: Located approximately equidistant between Chicago and St. Louis, this makes an ideal stopping point during longer journeys. Many families consider it a beloved tradition to stop here when traveling through Central Illinois.

Group-Friendly: The vast selection and welcoming atmosphere make it perfect for browsing with friends, family members, or solo adventures. You’ll often find families picking up armloads of books to take home, creating lasting memories around shared literary discoveries.

Old Book Barn
📍 126 S Route 51, Forsyth, IL 62535