The coolest bookstore with the most interesting things I’ve ever see! Close to KU so you can take a peek over your lunch! There are three floors. All to be walked so get ready and walk your lunch off! Many off beat books such as How Stupid Wars started and many others I don’t recall. That was just the first one I saw! Unfortunately they don’t serve libations in this bookstore. We went down stores which is lined with a pool table ball railing. Plants, a vintage rotary dial phone, a large stack of books balancing to the ceiling and yes, more books!! Travel up to the main floor, walk to the other side of it, and climb the small and tight fligh of steps to the third story. Along the wall there’s a hole in the wall with a light within to showcase the interesting pieces of art, toys, and objects inside. There’s a corner area to read ur book while looking outside one way or two pictures of adult art…watch out! It was a cool place to check out while you are out and about in 39th street. Before or after you have the best cocktail at Rabbit & Goat! Enjoy!

Quaint little book store in the historic Volker neighborhood on 39th and Bell. My daughter is a voracious reader and books are her love language so we had to visit while on vacation recently. We loved all the hidden alcoves / reading areas. It was really quiet! It took us a bit to figure out some type of organization but once we did, we narrowed our search before choosing our next reads. The only negative is the cuss words on the walls and and some "free form" comments. They apparently don't have an issue with you writing on the shelves. While I loved looking at the numerous quotes, the cuss words and sexual comments make this a non-family friendly place. I wouldn't take a child under 15 but that's me. My daughter commented how crude she found it. Give yourself plenty of time to look around. There are more used books than you can imagine.

I have patronized Prospero's before, over a decade ago. Unbeknownst, at the time, to me there is an upper and lower level to add to my book browsing joy. The proprietor is knowledgeable, attentive, courteous, and patient. He led me right to the section that housed Norman Mailer ! When he didn't have what I was searching for he found it online at a great price. I truly enjoyed browsing every nook and cranny of this treasure trove of literature. There is even an impressive section of vinyl records. The view from the upper floor, across the city, was relaxing. There were chairs and sofas strategically placed for reading. The location is very convenient as well! I left with Norman Mailer's, "Why Are We At War?" This conversational was a mere five dollars and some change! Of course, I will be visiting again!

This was a great little bookstore. They have books of all genre's and there's definitely something for everyone. The wood floor, the old building, it was a step back in time for sure. The ladder to climb up to find a book was pretty cool. I didn't know there was a 3rd story or I would have gone up and looked around. This store sits in a busy but quaint shopping area, old historic homes, close to KU Med, and a walk friendly neighborhood. Parking was easy to find right down the street. I managed to find a few books that were reasonably priced and affordable. But most of the genre I was looking at that day were way over priced. I'll be back looking for bargains and affordability. If you're looking for an out of the way bookstore to find something unique I'd definitely recommend them.

I love a good book store. Even better if the bookstore has as much personality and used books for same as Prospero's. I had a hard time only getting 2 books on my first visit. The fact that the three owners share their time there to keep costs low so they can stay in business is AWESOME. The have so many books I was surprised when we asked if they had a particular book, that the gentleman knew exactly where it was. It was also a hard to locate book and my husband has been on the hunt for it for several years. They not only had a copy, they had 2. he bought both. A couple was playing chess and another enjoying a comfy chair. Don't miss the basement. Loved seeing the quote engraved in the cement on the floor. Such character. You can spend hours here and I think I will next time!

My family and I love used bookstores. This one was on our list to check out, so we were willing to make a long drive. We drove over an hour tonight (Friday) to get to this bookstore. Website says they close at 10:00pm.. we arrived at 8:00pm, 2 hours before closing time, thinking that would give us plenty of time to look around. As we were walking up they were shutting off the lights and closing up shop, we couldn’t get in. Knocked and called trying to get an explanation, to no avail. Trip was wasted. Went back and checked their website and social media, thinking we must’ve missed something, but there wasn’t one place where they announced they were closing early tonight. Extremely frustrating. Wont be wasting the gas again.

Book paradise! 3 floors of absolute joy!. Used and new books and everything and anything you can think of. Prices are very reasonable. One of my favorite parts is the little details you find throughout the store, it’s like a little treasure hunt. It has multiple places you can sit and hang out and read as well. Oh and for those of you who are addicted to the smell of books, check out the bottom floor of this place, it’s literally like walking into a wine cellar but instead of the smell of wine, the smell of thousands of books hits your face like someone just threw farie dust at you! You literally have to just stand there for a bit and soak it all in. PLEASE GET YOURSELF OVER TO THIS PLACE ASAP, YOU WILL NOT REGRET IT.

This place is fascinating. There are books about literally everything, several reading nooks, "graffiti" which seems to be somewhat encouraged, and the decor suggests that the place is run by some sort of packrat wizard. That last point is absolutely a good thing in my book (oh my God, that pun was NOT intended!) It seemed like they might serve drinks or small foods sometimes but I'm not sure. I found a random book that I wanted that didn't have a price tag but the proprietor seemed astonished by its presence in his shop and let me have it for $5 because it had the slightest (and I mean slightest) bit of water damage. I really wish I could have spent more time there but it was late and I was sleepy.

This was my 2nd visit to this store. I love the vibe here, which includes a part-time psychic. Interesting inventory, and I found a book on my topic of interest. The only reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 was because there were 2 people behind the counter who were very interested in talking to each other, but never offered to help incoming customers. When I went to ask for a specific book, they were unable to say if they had it, and didn't offer any guidance beyond "If we have it, it will be on those shelves filed alphabetically by author ", and pointed in the general direction. Still, a fun shop for book-lovers.

This place was cool and really interesting. Organization and alphabetizing isnt the strong suit here, but this is a place where you go to wander around and discover new books anyway. The basement was fun too because there was a lot of graffiti on the shelves and walls, I sometimes found myself reading that more than books. And there is a 3rd floor with a lot of records and music stuff, not really my scene, but a neat place anyway. Definitely worth popping in and getting lost in the shelves for bit.

One of the last independently owned used book stores in the city! Beautifully laid-out, cozy, inviting! Wonderful basement with billions and billions of paperbacks of all kinds! The top floor hosts poetry readings, music jams, theater, storytelling, etc, in a lovely, homey space with polished wood floors, exposed brick walls, and a nice little wine and beer bar! Just love this place it is a treasure! You're not only welcome to take your time and browse, they actually encourage it! Haha!

If you’re looking for cool bookstore vibes this is the place! Honestly this is one of the coolest bookstores I’ve ever been to. I definitely recommend coming here even if it’s just to browse. The prices are pretty reasonable though not all the books I looked at were marked where I could find the price or read it clearly. We picked up some fun books that we are excited about. The selection was more on the antique side which is really nice but if you’re looking for newer stuff you may not find it

Five stars to support a great independent bookstore, wonderful ambiance, which also has a great selection of used movies, LPs, and CDs. The classical music selection is extensive and ranges from the obvious to the obscure. It is definitely worth a browse for collectors. I also thought the man behind the counter (proprietor?, didn’t ask) was very knowledgeable. The only downside is that the used music is a bit on the pricey side (generally $6 per LP or CD).

Love this place! 3 floors of books shoved in every corner, nook, and cranny; even in the rafters of the ceiling. I bought 5 books there today for under $20. Staff is very friendly and warm. Along with books, there are movies and music as well. Must-go for book lovers!! Also a plus: you can donate your books and they’ll give you store credit (at least this was the case when I first went about a year ago - may have changed since then)

Great selection of new and used books and CDs, three floors of well-organized and curated treats for the brain. The owner has crammed every nook with literature and music, with the top floor also serving as a space for readings and live music. My only concern is that the main floor has book shelves to the ceiling, so you have to look at the top shelves by climbing a library ladder. It was worth the effort, though.

A delightful & modest bookstore, lots of atmospher, love and creativity run through the veins of this building. My family and I went to a friends birthday party that was held in the upstairs loft space. We absolutely loved the vibe and cozy feel of the room. We are definitely coming back. P.S. every 3rd Friday they have a special themed night. We'll be attending our first one this month, we are very excited!!!

One of my favorite places. Depending who's working, its more or less very inviting. The aesthetic draws you into a very studious air, without seeming overly serious. Prices? Well I can spend a couple hundred and fill a shelf or 3 bucks and find a cozy book for right now. That is, the prices are easy to get behind and make it easy to pick up a lot of books if you're just looking to collect now and read later

An amazing little book shop, in which every nook and crany is filled with books. I could see my self spending hours here. The building is a hodgpoge of decore, from the wood/brick/metal/glass/cement infrastucture to the intertaining pictures posters and the like carteru every serface; not to mention the hundrends of writings in the basment. (some of which may not be kid friendly haha)

Not wheelchair accessible but an amazing variety of books that are all well priced (between 5 and 10 dollars). Three floors of book lovers heaven and live performances on the third floor! They trade and buy books and make fair deals I sold two books for seven dollars. They also have movies (although not a large selection). But, on the third floor there are cds and records galore!

Great bookstore. Below average ownership. All they are missing? A compass, and Pizza, or other food advertised, and served upstairs in the Cafe area. Although, what makes all of our opinions different on this journey? Is the personal knowledge, and true information about an "Origin" of anything that we possess, and keep internally within ourselves. "Cogito Ergo Sum."

This place is amazing! Absolutely huge selection of just about everything. Books everywhere! Very well laid out so books, or whatever else you're looking for, are easy to find. And the building and decor is so unique. There's three levels dotted with cozy chairs and benches. There's even a place upstairs big enough for a small gathering. Definitely worth stepping in.

Such a cute spot from the outside & looking through the windows, in a really cute area. Unfortunately, we were unable to go inside. Google & their website had different opening hours, neither of which must be their true opening hours because it remained closed. I’d recommend calling before going to make sure they’re open! Hoping I can come back a different time.

This is the best book store there is. Three stories of floor to ceiling books. You never know what you'll find and it changes every day. They give great rates on trade ins and the owners are very knowledgeable and friendly. They're a KC institution, heavily invested in their community. You're not likely to find book sellers like this anywhere else.

This place was amazing!! They had a huge variety of books spread across 3 floors. The gentleman at the counter were friendly, helpful, and informative. We were doing a roadtrip, when this came across my Instagram feed for Kansas City. Will have to come back if I'm ever in town again. I think they have small concerts upstairs too.

Super cool place to visit. 3 floors full of all kind of books, I love the basement floor, they have solace for you to sit and enjoy a book. Cool decorations that accent the place. Third floor have has a nice view. And also has a psychics that reads your hand if you are into those things. Overall super cool place.

Amazing vintage vibes used bookstore. Truly that bookstore you see people go into in movies that just makes you want to hang out all day, and absorb the atmosphere, enjoy the environment, the eclectic collection of awesome books and items, and an awesome afternoon hang with friends. I highly recommend this store.

Whimsical location with several floors to explore. There’s a lot of character here and bibliophiles will delight in the nooks and crannies to become a part of. They offer book buying/trading, which I was pleased with, and with the vast collection, i can only assume you’ll never be bored browsing this selection!

Lovely little bookstore. Found lots of interesting and out of print books. Ended up spending about 60 bucks and walked out with five books and a 9 dollar VHS. Pricing on the VHS was a bit extreme, but all in all a great visit. Downstairs was fantastic; I'll be back the next time I'm in the area to spend more!

Solid bookstore. Three levels, filled with books. I was looking for literature in German, so yeah weird I know, but things weren't as well organized as they could have been in that regard. (Ie, we found German language books in three different parts of the store). Other that that, it's pretty great

Prospero’s has character, and books. Lots of books. Three stories of books. To be clear, it is a used bookstore with creaking, wooden floors and a precarious looking sculpture, literally a tower of books. Give yourself time to browse. Parking can be a challenge, but Prospero’s is worth the effort.

I could happily spend a life time in this place. The owner was friendly and even had great suggestions for food. I live in Denver, but even so I plan on returning a couple of times a year... I see more road trips in my future. Thank you for making this amazing book haven available to us!

Prospero’s is great! It has a chill atmosphere, and the guy that runs it is super nice. There’s always new stuff on the shelves, and it’s a perfect spot to grab something new to read. There’s lots of cozy seating too! The fun architecture and decorations also make it a KC must-see

Very unique bookstore. It's exactly what a used bookstore should be. We spent 30 minutes looking around, but could habe stayed much longer. Picked up a great art book for my daughter and she got a CD made by a local artist which we've all enjoyed. Definitely will find time to go back.

Super cool corner shop book store. Great selections, great prices, very friendly owner. They have the rolling style bookcase ladders, wonderful free reign of graffiti in the basement shelves, and a chill spot upstairs to longue in. I hope to make this a regular haunt in the future.

An eclectic selection of used and new books. Quirky and fun. There are niches and comfy chairs hidden all around this 3-story living room/ library/hideaway. Come find the book you have been searching for or bend the ear of the knowledgeable staff and owner for a recommendation.

So beautiful. Actually carried a wide stock of newer novels!! I think you could walk in here looking for a super obscure book and walk out with it no problem. Phenomenal staff. I will be returning because it’s impossible to look over everything after one trip alone. :)

never seen a book store quite like this one. I love the "cave" at the bottom of the store. the quotes written everywhere make this place even more special to me. the stairs going to the top floor is decorated beautifully.. definitely the best book store in all of kcmo

Aesthetically pleasing to visit. A book lovers dream. It's like being around old friends you never want to stop getting to know. Amazing staff, a lot of very quirky perfect places to sit and read. I've been to a lot of bookstores in America this is one of my top five.

We did find some unique things there. There are, of course, a ton of books since there is 3 levels. We felt the books could have been cheaper though. I guess the clerk had to stay behind the desk because he would tell us where to go but wouldn't show us.

I love supporting local stores. This is a west 39th street gem. They have so many used books its amazing. You could get lost in there. But if you dont have time to browse just ask someone that works there abd they will tell you exactly where the book is.

One of the most interesting stores I’ve ever visited. The store owner, Tom, is a joy to talk to and the store is 3 floors of nothing but books. It’s very cool and the vibes are super chill. Love it there! I’ve collected several books from here.

We spent a quiet afternoon in this quaint bookshop browsing the stacks and finding lots of treasures. There is something for everyone here. I found a book about haunted lighthouses and an old Nancy Drew's Secret of the Old Clock, as well as

Uniquely chaotic atmosphere crowded with a diverse selection of books. The books seem to be very loosely arranged in any kind of order. This is a good place if you're looking for antique books or anything else you can't ordinarily find in a

One of the coolest book stores in KC!! My family and friends and I have stopped in on more than one visit and it's just as good every time! 3 floors of hunting for that perfect used book and an owner who is always knowledgeable and helpful!

Loved finding this gem! I love the smell of a good bookstore. It’s clean, well organized and super charming! Three levels, and they had a lovely live band on the top floor! Definitely recommend that you go and allow yourself time to peruse!

Quirky used bookstore with floor to ceiling books, books, books! A bit overwhelming and disorganized but overall probably could find anything if you took the time to look. Staff didn't engage which is odd for your typical used book store.

Beautiful book store in a historic building. Three floors of books. Not wheel chair accessible but the owners operate the store and they are very personable. You need help with anything just ask. Reasonably priced. Love their rare finds.

Amazing used book store that takes you back in time the minute you walk through the door. One could spend hours perusing their selection and reveling in the classical book shop atmosphere that can only be cultivated with genuine decades.

Prospero's is really the last bastion of downtown's truly great independent used book stores. Also the contribution to the Kansas City poetry scene that these gentlemen have discovered, published & birthed should be noted more. Probably

An independent book shop, the kind you visit without an end goal! This store is fantastic. In my opinion, it's the old school version of a bookstore that we readers and thinkers crave. Hints of musty book smell (read musty, not moldy or

Oh.my.gosh!! If you are a lover of books & you've not visited this amazing jewel of a bookstore, why not?? 3 full floors+ of "organized by genre" books, music and more. Added bonus...the staff is knowledgeable and fun to chat with!

Very interesting experience, definitely not just a bookstore. The most important piece is definitely the ability to leave comments all over the bookshelves, most notably on the ones downstairs. It's an analogue message board!

This bookstore is awesome. Part of the West 39th St neighborhood, it is full of character and charm. There are a wide assortment of books. Make sure to visit all three floors, and pay attention to the art and other items.

This is my type of book store! They have a very good selection of books in many different genres! This is not your mainstream media bookstore with agendas of pushing fabricated stories and lies within their publications.

A beautiful old Kansas City building and business with a wonderful selection of books. Even if you don't find what you're looking for you're bound to walk out with a few books anyway. Great place to visit while on 39th.

Really neat establishment with heaps of character. Awesome big (not little) book store with a little bit of something for everyone. Owner was positive and friendly - really looking forward to spending more time here

This place feels like you're walking in to an old time book store you'd see in the movies. There are multiple levels and tons of old books to browse through and comfy chairs to kick back in and read a good book.

Great bookstore with walls and walls lined with books for your viewing pleasure! The third floor has a nice spot to sit around and peruse a book or two. Don't forget to head downstairs and get lost in books.

Incredible place, incredible people. To say Prosperos has saved my life twice would be exactly accurate. Go there, buy books, then buy more books, then buy the rest of the books. Love. Looooooove this place.

The perfect example of what has become a dying breed: local bookstores. Chock full of hidden gems, this is the ideal place to spend a weekend afternoon. 3 floors of books, with every genre well represented!

This is definitely a great bookstore. I loved the vibe of the place. It has a large variety of books of all genre at reasonable prices. If I ever get back to Kansas City, I would definitely go there again.

I have visited many times for decades! This is definitely one of those "little bookstores" any book hound will love. Three floors of curated books, some newer and many older. Prospero's is a must-visit.

This is the kind of business that makes the heart of the KC Westport area so important. There are so many different types of books for people who love to read to find. I hope this place lasts forever!

Outstanding, authentic bookstore. You will not be disappointed. I picked up a new portrait book about Frank Sinatra. Will and Tom are great guys as well and can assist in any way. Highly recommend.

My favorite bookstore... Locally owned and operated. They publish and support local/regional writers (mostly poetry). Great selection of used books (three floors) of all genres. Buy & trade.

Fabulous used book store with a huge selection that spans 3 stories. The owner was helpful, the atmosphere was funky, the prices were reasonable, and it was very well organized and labeled.

Awesome book shop with a vintage flair. Owner is super friendly. Wife traded a whole bunch of her already read books and picked up some new ones. Nice to see places like this still exist.

Really cheap prices, they sell & trade, also have $1 paperbacks outside the place, not bad. Good place to come and chill/read as well. Three floors of used books, comics, CDS, and movies!

We love a good used book store and Prospero's did not disappoint. We spent an hour there and could have stayed longer. The selection is vast and it is just a cool place to spend time!

Amazing 3-story boom store! I was overwhelmed with so many books! I loved all the messages written and the creaks made from ppl walking on the main floor. Good priced books.

We went to a concert upstairs, it was fabulous. A mix of Jambaroque and Steampunk. Prosperous is so unique and always a warm atmosphere. Lot's of books are wonderful.also!

Awesome book store. Probably best indy I've ever been in. A favorite of my college age granddaughter. She had me meet her there. Very interesting and priced reasonable.

As a self-proclaimed book store connoisseur, this is my all-time favorite book store. The atmosphere is priceless :) Everytime I visit Prospero's I find a treasure.

An absolutely adorable bookstore. I've gone multiple times and the staff is friendly and helpful. They have a wide selection of books, I definitely recommend going.

I took my book loving wife and she ADORED it. Lovely decorating, plenty of places to sit and relax of you wanted to read while there. Friendly staff. A must visit!

What a fantastic owner and an historic site with incredible character Just wow!!! My new favorite spot to chill The pollar opposite of Oak Park Mall

Great local book store, I love the vibe of this place. The prices are reasonable. It's a great store to browse and the upstairs is a relaxing place to hang out.

I LOVE this shop!! My tween and I go here often and he's as enamored with it a I am. There always something fun to discover. Truly speaks the imagination!!

This place is so cute and fun to look around. The book are well priced a nicely organized. Looking around the basement is probably my favorite part.❤️❤️❤️

Cool place, LOTS of books. They don't seem to have a digital catalog of the books they have so it's more of a, let the book choose you, type if place

Iconic spot in KC. This new and used book store, loaded with nostalgia and avant garde decor, has been a favorite destination of mind for years.

I love going here! Plenty of little nooks to sit and check out their books. If you can't find something, just ask! The staff is super friendly.

Best little three floor book store in the Kansas City area. Great prices. Helpful staff. Good music. A place you can get lost and spend a day.

A must visit in Kansas City. Three floors of books, records and history. Bring your Sharpie leave your mark. Should be 6 stars for this place.

Great selection, atmosphere, prices and programing. Highly recommend this bookshop for anyone in the area. They have a wide variety of books!

Not only the best used bookstore in Kansas City, but a cultural hub for creative minds. Lovely building, cool staff, and lots of neat books!

I LOVE this place. Love the layout. The basement is the coolest part of the store other than the fact that it's a book store. :)

Let the bookstore guide you to what it knows you need. 3 stories of books, books and records. Delightful date night location.

Best bookstore in kc. Hosts events. Has record store upstairs . Weird s info downstairs. Local writers hub for United States.

This is an amazing local gem of a bookstore. The peaceful vibes were immaculate and the aesthetic was lovely. There's three

First visit. Suitably impressed. I shall return. Maybe reading books not on an LED screen will help me get on an even keel?

Fantastic bookstore. Love going here when I'm in town. 3 floors of books! If you like bookstores you will love this place!

Very cute book store! Had lots of variety, some artworks and notebooks, reading nooks, and just a great vibe in general.

I have gone to every used bookstore within an hour of KC in KS & MO. This is the best used bookstore around, hands down.

Fantastic locally owned & operated Kansas City, Missouri bookstore just east of Stateline Road at 39th Street & Bell.

Seriously wonderful 3 story book store. Unique old building with so much character and charm. A book lovers paradise

Love love LOVE this bookstore and it's entire atmosphere!!! The gentleman who works there (owner?) is always great!

Wonderful experience! Great selection, community connected, makes me want to read more. Don't miss out on this gem.

Definitely a really cool experience. If you're a lover of books, or other media, this is worth a stop while in KC.

Very quirky bookstore with a good selection of well sorted books. Also worth a visit just to enjoy the atmosphere