About Us

The Illini Union Bookstore, the official bookstore of the University of Illinois, has the student's needs and interests as its primary focus.

As one of the largest independent college bookstores in the country, the Illini Union Bookstore is the continuation of a book exchange organized in the early 1920s by students at the university. Due to the exchange's popularity, it moved into the Arcade building (715 South Wright Street) in 1932, and became a full-fledged bookstore. In 1940, one year before the dedication of the Illini Union building, we received our current name: Illini Union Bookstore.

Had you been a University of Illinois student 60 years ago, you would have saved your receipts and turned them in at the end of each school year to receive a dividend. Now we return all our proceeds to fund student activities in the Illini Union!

In 1964 the Book Center opened in the Illini Union and offered a wide selection of general books.  The Book Center was housed in what is now The Tech Zone and Quad Shop in the southwest corner of the Union.

After decades of living apart, the Bookstore and Book Center became roommates. They moved into their current, joint space on August 8, 1994 at the Wright and Daniel Street location, and became the new Illini Union Bookstore.

Staying true to its original roots, the Illini Union Bookstore continues to have the needs of University of Illinois students at the heart of its existence. Every decision, each new or existing service in short, everything we do is done to provide the best for each and every student at the University of Illinois.

 

Our Vision is the Illini Union Bookstore will be the premier destination where the campus community shops for a lifetime.

Our Mission is the Illini Union Bookstore is the official University of Illinois Campus Store for all products and merchandise, including required educational materials.  We provide great customer service, innovative solutions, affordable course materials, and a welcoming environment for all.  We contribute to the student co-curricular experience by employing students and by providing funds for student programs and activities.

 

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