News Summary
John K. King Used and Rare Books in Detroit is Michigan’s largest bookstore, featuring over one million books across four floors. Founded by John King in 1965, the store prioritizes a tactile browsing experience, setting it apart from chain bookstores. It also houses a rare book collection with signed editions. The bookstore serves as a community hub, drawing patrons from near and far, reinforcing the importance of independent businesses in the literary world.
Detroit – John K. King Used and Rare Books holds the title of Michigan’s largest bookstore, boasting an impressive collection of over one million books. Located at 901 W. Lafayette Blvd. in Detroit, this expansive establishment occupies the former Advance Glove Co. factory and spans four floors, offering an extensive browsing experience for book lovers.
The journey of John King, the store’s founder, began in 1965. As a child, he discovered a set of books from the 1850s in a second-hand store, igniting his lifelong passion for literature. King initially embarked on his business venture by selling books from the trunk of his 1954 Packard automobile. By 1971, he established his first storefront in Dearborn, and in the 1980s, he relocated to the current site which has become a literary landmark.
King has made it his mission to maintain a browsing-centered environment within the store. Unlike large chain bookstores that have become increasingly computerized, John’s approach encourages customers to physically engage with the books and immerse themselves in the literature. This tactile experience sets his shop apart and remains a significant draw for patrons.
In addition to his extensive inventory, King manages a rare book collection housed in an adjacent building, which is available for viewing by appointment. This collection includes remarkable items such as signed books by notable personalities, including Stephen King and Franklin D. Roosevelt. The rare collection also features antiques and historical artifacts that add to the allure of the store.
Customer engagement is a fundamental aspect of the store’s appeal. This community hub not only attracts local residents but also draws visitors from around the world, emphasizing the importance of supporting local businesses. The store offers books ranging in price from $10 to $150,000 for very rare editions, catering to a wide range of customers and collectors alike.
While the pandemic briefly impacted business operations, foot traffic has seen a resurgence since reopening. The bookstore actively encourages community gatherings and hosts events that center around literary interests, further solidifying its role as a center for local collaboration and connection. John King has expressed that the experience of discovering books in a physical store creates a contrast with online shopping, underscoring the joy of finding a hidden gem among the shelves.
The store’s hours of operation are Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., offering ample opportunity for patrons to explore its vast selection of titles. Alongside John K. King Used and Rare Books, multiple independent bookstores in Detroit are thriving, supporting the local economy and fostering a community around reading and literature.
As a locally owned business, John K. King Used and Rare Books provides significant economic benefits to the city of Detroit. The success of the store is a testament to the enduring love for books and the important role that independent bookstores play within communities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Detroit Festival of Books Celebrates Local Literature
Detroit Festival of Books Expands Activities This Year
Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press: Independent Metro Detroit Bookstores
- CBS News: Historic Detroit Bookstore
- Atlas Obscura: John K. King Used and Rare Books
- WXYZ: John King Bookstore Back Open
- BridgeDetroit: Detroit Festival of Books
- Wikipedia: Bookstore
- Google Search: John K King Used and Rare Books
- Google Scholar: John K King Used and Rare Books
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bookstores
- Google News: John K King Used and Rare Books
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
