Rainy Day Books is kind of the best of both worlds - a book lover's paradise staffed by book worms. It's a cozy space, but it's jampacked with books from all subjects. If you can't find what you're looking for - which for some reason happens me a lot - the staff is happy to order a copy for you. They're book club friendly. They also host a ton of fun book-related and author events. If you're interested, please follow their social media accounts. They'll keep you up to date. read more

Rainy Day Books - Bookstores Near Me - Fairway, Kansas

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Indie bookstores are the best. This one being the oldest in KC, just celebrating 50 years is absolutely amazing. They have amazing author events either in their shop or the Unity Temple on the Plaza. There is a great kids section with a ton of options. Employees are super helpful and will help you look up books as well. I needed to make sure a book was appropriate for kids and they looked up the details for me! Great bookstore all around! read more

If you haven't been to Rainy Day Books, and you've passed by at any point, you're really missing out! Every time I go into the shop, even if I think I know exactly what I want, every staff member is so knowledgeable and helpful that I always leave with more ideas on my TBR! The little shop is located in the tiny shopping center off Brush Creek Parkway, which means it can be hard to find parking if the center is petty busy--but it's worth it! They have great sections for adult reads, but they also have great sections for kids and teens--you'll find what you're looking for even if you're not sure what that is. Over the holidays, I even asked for kids and teens recommendations from the staff which they were happy to give! As noted earlier, their shop isn't huge, but full of possibilities. And if at the end of your visit, you really still want that book they don't have in stock, they'll order it for you for pick up or shipping--it's a simple process and they're more than happy to help people find their perfect next read. They may not be a book superstore, but they create value in their suggestions, recommendations, and their tiny book reviews and recs on the shelves (even in the teens and kids sections, written by kids and teens!). So glad to have found this place early on in my time in KC, and so happy that they're still doing their thing in their amazing bookshop! read more

Fairway, Kansas, is a cute town that's part of Kansas City. And in Fairway, you will find Rainy Day Books. Neil Gaiman once said, "A town isn't a town without a bookstore." And Rainy Day Books makes Fairway, Fairway. Hospitable and knowledgeable staff, their recommendations on the shelves, wide aisles, big windows, townspeople shopping here with their kids--it's basically a community center! The book selection is eclectic: classics and new releases, every genre available. I'm not a local, but I could have joined their customer list for rewards. They also give discounts to educators. I enjoyed my visit here for the value so much that I got coffee gift cards from the cafe next door for the Rainy Day staff. read more

Rainy Day Books - Passing the front. - Bookstores Near Me - Fairway, Kansas

Rainy day Books has lots of books (obviously) but what makes it stand out are the people who work there! They are the best & they will help you find the best book for yourself or a friend. their author visits are outstanding. Don't miss out on this local gem! read more

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BOOK DEALER! Great selection of books, good service, and if you make a purchase you can use your receipt as a coupon to the front range drink shop next door! read more

Rainy Day Books - Bookstores Near Me - Fairway, Kansas

They have a great selection of current titles, some old favorites and a nice kids+YA area. There are several gift items sprinkled around too. Prices are to be expected with a small business. The staff was pleasant. read more

I'll never forget the first time I walked into Rainy Day Books. I was looking for a book that was going to be emotional and three different booksellers jumped at the chance to recommend a book to me. You can tell they all enjoy being there and they're all so helpful. The atmosphere is impeccable and their book selection almost always has what I'm looking for. If it doesn't, they can order a book and it would be waiting at the store for me. I will actively go out of my way to go to Rainy Day instead of going somewhere that might have the same book at a cheaper price. In short, I love Rainy Day Books and I'm sure you'll love it too read more

I'm not embarrassed to say that I kind of live here. I LOVE this place, like love, love. The book selection is great (I usually head straight to the history section) and special ordering books that they don't have is really easy. I usually do this instead of ordering on Amazon, as I'd prefer to support an independent business. I even have the Rainy Day books bag. Ha. One of the things I love about this place is that it's under newer ownership, but the woman who owned it before still works there. She has an encyclopedic knowledge of books. Ask her for a recommendation, especially fantasy and science fiction. Rainy Day Books is one of my cozy, happy KC places. read more

This is a local bookstore. I have been ordering my books local when I can because it supports the local economy, and there is just something about walking into a bookstore and the smell of new books. I met a new person today, Sarah, who took care of me today. She looked at the books I had ordered and struck up a conversation with me and then showed me a section of books that was on topic with the books I ordered. Wonderful conversation and great selection. You can order online for in store pick up or you can your books shipped to you. It is so much more fun to pick up in store. There is a small selection of greeting cards (I bought 4), some lovey journals, and note cards. They also offer a discount at the coffee shop down the strert when you show your receipt at the coffee shop. In addition, they sponsor great author events. What a great bookstore, worth the drive. read more

Rainy Day Books - Think Local Buy Local - Bookstores Near Me - Fairway, Kansas

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How poetic that I chose a "rainy day" to stop in this quaint book shop! I have a couple books I need to finish reading before I invest in some more but I wanted to support this small, locally owned business so I walked away with my next journal that I'm so excited to fill. The location is just perfect in the Fairway Shops. I stopped by on my way back from the Plaza. It's got a cute selection of books, cards, stationary, puzzles and journals (of course). Whether you live here or are just passing through, this is one book store worth stopping by! Fun thing to note: If you sign up in their system when you make a purchase, they will log what you buy. So, they can use your past purchases of books to make future recommendations to you, if you need, or if someone is wanting to gift you something, the book store can pull up what you've been getting into and make a suggestion to that person as to what you might like next! It's the little things that count and thought this was a thoughtful/nice added touch. read more

Rainy Day Books - My newest journal from Rainy Day Books, where self "growth" happens and ideas will "bloom"...yeah? - Bookstores Near Me - Fairway, Kansas

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Rainy Day Books is amongst the best known local booksellers in Kansas City. They do an incredible job of sourcing visits from incredible authors and I've attended a few author events they've put on over the years. Surprisingly though, I'd never made it to their actual shop, despite driving by it on countless occasions. Flashback to a few weeks ago when I needed to pick up a physical book. Since having my daughter I've been pretty glued to my Audible subscription but I was excited about the need to visit a real brick and mortar shop, and to support a local one to boot! I walked in and honestly I was a little surprised at how small it is. Given the hype I was imagining something a little different in my head, but it was a well stocked store with really friendly staff working that day. After scouring the shop for the book I needed I ended up asking for help and after a really thorough search of the store it was decided that they must be out of stock. They were still very helpful though and placed an order for me that came in later that week! Overall I do think the space could use a bit of a facelift (just to feel more modern - it's an impeccably kept shop), but it is a charming, well run, delightful little locally owned shop that I'm so lucky to have here in our metro. I know the Made In KC folks are taking it over soon so I hope they are able to only enhance it and not take away from some of the charm that makes it what customers have come to expect. If you're looking for a local bookshop to support this is a solid choice! read more

Rainy Day Books - Bookstores Near Me - Fairway, Kansas

Rainy Day Books is the local bookstore to go to in Kansas City. The staff is super friendly and they go out of their way to support you in getting you the book that you want. They have a vendor they can go through for you to go whatever book you want. Local bookstores are being hard to find but if you are local Kansas City and a book lover this has to be a place for you to visit. read more

I've been here a handful of times now. The book selection is pretty good, and most of the staff is friendly. Will probably continue to shop here, because I believe in supporting small business. However, the most recent time, an older lady working made me feel absolutely terrible. I was buying a book as a gift for my nephew and was looking for a recommendation. I mentioned his age and recent books he was reading, and was immediately scolded for allowing him to read such a book (his mother was very aware of book), and this lady just kept telling me how inappropriate the book was for him in front of the entire store. Needless to say, she lost a sale from me that day. read more

Fantastic locally owned book shop. Great selection and friendly staff, and they're always willing to order something if they don't have it in stock. Good stuff! read more

My friend and I stopped here on our road trip. The two ladies working were super friendly and helpful when I asked a few questions on particular books. I thought the bookstore was well laid out, and it was easy to find certain books based on genre. They had a large selection of children's books as well. read more

The owner was supper nice, very helpful. He showed me around the place in detail, and I noticed he happen to know all those who came in by first name very impressive. read more

Cutest little neighborhood book shop. Great spot to get a good recommendation and they have started some fun neighborhood book clubs in the shop for different genres. read more

first time using them ordered a book online at 5:50 pm wanted a keanu reeves signed edition they closed at 7 pm, i was at event. paid for both they had 200 copies crossed my fingers. recieved an email 10;40 am order was canceled they were out. This tells me they ignore online orders and this is why i will never shop there again as they cant take care of online orders. If i recieved emal after my order day before i would say ok tough luck but you showed me how you dont care. last purchase or now non purchase i will make hello amazon. shane troncin read more

A local business in Mission! they have a good variety of books, and the bookstore is bright and welcoming and laid out to let you meander and discover new books. The staff were extremely friendly and helpful, eager to answer my questions and give suggestions and recommendations. read more

I believe that local bookstores will always have a strong place in the community, no matter what digital technology takes place. That's my hope, at least, as I love talking with the people and poking around the big selection at shops like Rainy Day Books. I've been going here since I was a kid growing up down the street and it's a great bookstore. They bring in authors and do large community events throughout the year, and the store itself has everything you'd want at a great price. There's a certain smell and essence of a bookstore that to me is worth going a tad out of your way for versus, say, buying it online and having it shipped to you. You can peruse the selection, find something you might not have thought of, and learn better book recommendations than a digital algorithm. Bookmark this Fairway staple and pop in next time you're nearby! read more

I feel a little disingenuous writing a review for this store when I've not actually visited...yet! But wait - I do still have a valid reason to laud Rainy Day books, based on the author signing I went to last night, hosted by this bookstore. My advice to everyone is: go on the Rainy Day Books website, find out what amazing authors are coming to town, and get tickets! I don't often do the fan-girl thing but when I do, I go whole hog. I've been avidly following Deb Perelman and her Smitten Kitchen blog long before she decided to get famous for cooking delicious stuff out of her tiny kitchen in the heart of NYC. Here's what made me fall in love with Deb - she brought us into her life while showing us how to cook better. When I first started reading the blog she was married with no kids but I've since had the fun of watching her become mama to the most adorable little boy and girl. The pictures and vignettes of her family and life in NYC are every bit as enjoyable as all the great recipes she shares. When I heard she'd added Kansas City to her newest book tour, I knew I was going to be there. The event was held at Trinity Unity Church, near the Plaza but it was put on by Rainy Day Books. What a class event! The owner of the bookstore was on hand to make sure all went smoothly with the logistics of how the evening would go. You could tell this was NOT her first rodeo, in terms of these author events and when I looked at the very, very impressive list of authors who have come this year, I could see she has something great going for our town. The stranger turned to friend who sat next to me while we waited for the show to begin could only extol the bookstore, the owner, and every event they put on. In a world where Amazon and other online bookstores are taking over the world, it makes me ridiculously happy to see a local bookstore thrive. Now that I know of Rainy Day Books you can bet I'll be visiting the store. Soon. read more

Rainy Day Books - Drawing for prizes with Deb in the center and the owner of Rainy Day Books on the left. - Bookstores Near Me - Fairway, Kansas

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It all starts with the name. You walk in the door and hello, you kind of wish it were a rainy day so you can spend it in one of the nooks and cranies that this bookstore offers. Truth be told, I was on a wild goose chase one day looking for Rainy Day Books. My friend, a certain authoress who is a tardy yelper who shall remain nameless, was in town and wanted to visit the local book stores that carried her book so that she could go in and sign a few. Of course Barnes and Noble was easy to find on Plaza. I'm not a fan of B&N, and I'll leave it at that. She signed her copies and we moved on. Next up was Rainy Day Books and this promised to be a relief because it was indie and I love indie! But it was hard to find. Don't trust Mapquest (duh, right?). We arrived stressed but left practically glowing, thanks to the lovely staff, and perfect environment chock full of interesting titles on display, not to mention cards, magnets, bookmarks, and the like. Trust me, it's impossible to spend time in here and NOT leave with some little treasure. Rainy Day Books is everything you want in an indie book store. They get a lot of authors in, too and being that this isn't Barnes & Noble, you can get up close and personal with your favorites. read more

Rainy Day Books has the name going for it - (when I went there today, it was very rainy) - it makes you want to read in bed all day. I needed a gift for a friend, a book apparently out of stock by Pearl S. Buck. I assumed of all the bookstores in the area, RDB's would know what to do - and they did. While Barnes and Noble told me they would order the book and call me when it came (basically meaning, they would order it later only to find out it was out of stock by the publisher and that more needed to be printed.) Rainy Day, however, called the publisher while I was there and saved me the false hope of waiting around for Barnes and Noble to finally figure out that they couldn't help me! The guy behind the counter informed me the publisher would let them know when more had been printed so that RDB's could go ahead and purchase some for their store. Looking around, I noticed nearly everything looked readable to me. The staff smartly displays certain books that attract the eye, enticing you to pick up books you would otherwise never look twice at. Kudos for this. But the overall organization of the bookstore was disappointing. When I asked the man where the books on WWI were, he looked at me like I was crazy (a pet-peeve of mine in the service industry, I detest being looked at like a alien after I ask a damn question!) He pointed me to the general 'history' section and told me they would be somewhere spread out. I never found a WWI book...it was too scattered! RDBooks is perfect for the following: 1. You don't have a book in mind, but you want to find a good one to read. 2. You DO have a book in mind and if they do not have it in stock, you'll order it through them. 3. You have children you want to find those classic children's books for, the ones you read as a kid. 4. You want to meet authors.... I love Rainy Day Books because it has connections to a greater literary world beyond KC. They sell tickets to these special book signing events - one of which I think I might surprise my mom with tickets to (the Ina Garten package, $35 for a ticket and her cookbook - not a bad deal!) They also have book clubs and you can tell the people who work there LOVE books, almost in that snobbish sort of way, like they want to say, "We KNOW we're better read than you, yes," when they're showing you a book. After spending a few hours at The Strand in New York (the largest used book store in the US - it also employs the most notoriously rude, hyper-intellectuals on the East Coast) I'm a little sensitive to curt bookworms who would rather finish blogging than help you find a book they assume you wouldn't understand anyways. But that's my irritation from The Strand carrying over - RDBook's really isn't that bad, I just tasted a little hint of that same spice. read more

Rainy Day Books - It was a rainy day - Bookstores Near Me - Fairway, Kansas

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Staff is very helpful and welcoming. Consequently I went in for one book and walked out with more!

Quaint little bookstore. The staff was knowledgable and very helpful. Tracked down exactly what I was looking for and was very kind to offer to hold the only copy they had in. When I went in the store the pick it up it was organized and they were very polite. It was quick and easy and had the book that I couldn't find anywhere else. They do charge a little bit more than the big box stores but when tasked with helping a small business, rather than the big box stores, I rather help a small business. They also were the only ones to have it in stock. read more

Rainy Day Books - Chelsea market cookbook - Bookstores Near Me - Fairway, Kansas

Convenient location in Fairway, especially for the surrounding neighborhoods. However, I wouldn't shop here again due to the fact we were asked 3 times whether we paid for our books prior to leaving. When there was even a person at the door monitoring entrance/exits. Which feels like we were being accused of shoplifting. Not the best feeling when you are shopping as a family, for Christmas books for your toddler (spending nearly $50+) and even more so, trying to support local businesses. read more

We need to support our independent home bookstores. Rainy Day has always brought in great authors and exciting book readings and talks all these years! I would hate to think of visiting KC and not seeing that great little bookstore on the corner in Fairway. I have visited bookstores in other cities - this surpasses all of them. It is clean, filled with every book imaginable, and the owners will give you suggestions if you need it. Need books for your children? What a wonderful gift!! I shop there every time I am in Kansas City. Cherish your bookstores! read more

I have shopped here many times and always found a great selection. The recommendations really help. Oftentimes, they will host authors- my favorite part. Thank you for being a cute little shop with wonderful books! read more

I've tried to like Rainy Day Books. And I really wanted to, because I go out of my way to support local business. But....it's just tough to keep trying when the response is what I've had from RDB. I've been in and out a few times, and I've purchased the occasional book here. I was disappointed that they didn't have Brene Brown's newest book when it first came out; the lady working the day I stopped in hadn't even heard of it, but told me that unless a book is 'really, really popular' they wait until it comes out in paperback to stock. That was a disappointment. What really sticks out for me, however, is that I wanted to take my daughter to an author event (Curtis Stone, later this week) but in order to comply with the RDB "policies" I'd have to buy two books. Let me explain. I'm a single mom with two kids at home. One is 12, the other 9. I called to ask if my son could tag along with us while I stood in line to have my daughter meet the author. I was told absolutely not; if I wanted to bring both kids, I'd have to buy two tickets because each 'ticket' includes one book, one autograph 'pass' and one 'extra' ticket. The phone conversation wasn't even what I'd call friendly--it was passably cordial-- but she did suggest that I find a friend who might only need one ticket and use their 'extra' for my son. So I did just that--I found a friend who also wanted to buy the cookbook and meet Curtis Stone. She called to make sure bringing her three year old son would be ok. They said sure, he could come. But he needs a ticket. A THREE YEAR OLD NEEDS A TICKET. So my only choice, to support my local book store, was to buy a second book in order to attend their event. I wouldn't take issue with that except that we're talking kids, one of whom will simply sit there and play games on his phone while his sister meets her chef idol. Crown me meanest mommy on the planet now, because I'm just not going to fork over $70 because of a 'store policy' that isn't customer friendly (in my opinion, anyway). I realize not everyone has the same situation that I do, and maybe when my kids are grown or no longer want to attend an event with me, my opinion will change. But for now, I'll have to pass. read more

Upon first setting foot in the store, any equivocation is struck down with a mere glance upon the walls. Lining the perimeter of the little shop in Fairway are dozens upon dozens of jumbo-sized foamcore-mounted images of book covers, all signed by their esteemed authors. If there was any doubt to begin with, none remains: its clear that Rainy Day Books is the Literary Mecca of the Metro. Author events aside, the spot offers a cozy place to explore the shelves (as opposed to the cavernous maze of your Barnes, your Nobles or your Borders), and a friendly staff to answer your queries. Spending time here after a recent trip to a local Borders, I was struck by the difference that a sense of scale makes. While I always feel a bit overwhelmed at the larger stores, Rainy Day Books feels so manageable in comparison. In fact, I might say that the place makes me feel *compelled* to shop. On a recent outing with The Wife™, neither of us had any intention of actually buying anything. But after a while spent wandering and reading, we both ended up finding something we couldn't part with. It's just that good, folks! For a truly perfect experience, begin with a stop at Hi-Hat Coffee around the way, order a Black & White Mocha, and enjoy your browsing with a tasty beverage. read more

Um. Ok, so, I've heard about Rainy Day books since I was a little kid. I built it up in my head to be something it's really not. Not at all even. I read all these accolades now, here on Yelp, and... I'm confused. I thought it would be a dark cozy affair, with lots of hidden passageways, maybe some roaring fires, and rain through the window at all times. Someplace you're not even going to see another soul for hours, let alone an employee. Maybe multiple stories with secret rooms and a hint of danger where the rare first editions are kept. Maybe even locked off areas where the really truly rare stuff is. It's in a strip mall. Ok, so some good stuff is in strip malls. That's what we get out here in the Midwest suburbs I suppose, I should learn to deal, right? But it felt like I was walking into just... anywhere. Remember Waldenbooks? Yeah, the one in the malls. I walked into Rainy Day Books the other weekend, for the first time, after sitting in the parking lot thinking "this can't be it" and thought I'd returned to my angsty teenage years of loitering in my local Waldenbooks. Is there a secret basement? Is there some sort of hidden attic? Where's the magic in this place? The phrase "never meet your heroes" kept running through my mind as I went from front to back looking for something special, even stopping to chat with the friendly book clerk. I did like the decorations lining the walls. I didn't hate the place, not at all. I just didn't really like it. There weren't really very many places to sit. None of them looked comfortable. There weren't any real alcoves that were off and tucked away. Not really. Only a little bit. I dunno. I wanted to get it. I wanted to love it. I mean, I live just minutes from it. I can't. Yelp's star system for two stars says "I've experienced better." And as much as I adore books, and book stores, and book store clerks, and all things that surround that which is a bookstore, that unfortunately is so so true. I should temper my review a bit. I wrote this and was about to hit "Post" but decided to add some weasel: my first Rainy Day Books visit came in the same year I discovered The Strand and the original B&N in NYC, as well as the gems that are independent booksellers of New England (especially New Hampshire and Vermont). I'm up for debate on the subject though, as obviously there's a loyalty and a following. Please tell me: what makes this place special? read more

Seeing current reviews for Rainy Day books got me all sentimental and I had to chime in. I went to the now-torn-down Olathe location COUNTLESS times during my childhood. It's no wonder I was an English major, considering the tons of times my mom took me to find new books. I discovered lifelong favorite "The Egypt Game" here, which has stuck with me. The current location has some really cool events (I missed David Sedaris recently. DAMMAT.) and makes me want to support local bookstores as much as possible. What a fitting name too. I la-la-lahve Rainy Day books! read more

A beautiful bookstore filled with your heart's desire. If you are not sure what you desire, the knowledgeable staff can help you find a treasure. Don't wait for a rainy day to make a visit. read more

An incredibly lovely bookstore. They do amazing author events and bring in big names. Make sure it get your ticket fast as many times, this is your place in line for the book signing! I am a big library fan but I do shop here when I know I want to buy a book. I also know someone who really enjoys their book club and have contemplated joining myself. read more

As RDB is the only locally owned seller of new books that I know of in Kansas City, it's the only place I go. And I still do PRINTED books-I just can't imagine curling up in bed with an iPad. Sure, Amazon is cheaper, and they have reviews to help you. But for me, atmosphere and people are just as important in shopping as they are in dining out. Everyone here is helpful and well informed without being overbearing. The store is attractive and well-organized, and while the inventory doesn't compare to Amazon or Barnes & Noble, they'll order anything you want. And you'll never get to meet an author at Barnes & Noble! read more

There is something that a local bookstore can provide that the large chains, like Barnes and Noble or Borders cannot. The friendly atmosphere at Rainy Day Books offers an intimacy that you will not find at a larger chain store. The friendly staff greets visitors with a hello and an offer to help one find what he or she is looking to read. The store is set up as little alcoves of shelves, divided by genre and well organized. Rainy Day Books is a charming shop to browse, but you're sure to get a hand in finding what you need. The staff has recommendations and assistance to offer, if asked, or your could spend a pleasant bit of time simply wandering among the books. Rainy Day Books is perhaps best known for organizing speakers and authors around town. A schedule of events and locations is available. read more

Ever since the show Ellen, I wanted to run my own bookstore. Then I discovered that due to Barnes and noble, Borders etc, a greater business risk there is not. Rainy Day books has an established following and is a great little local bookstore. I first heard about RDB when they were sponsoring a talk by my favorite author John Irving. Ever since then I have made an effort to support their great commitment to Kansas City's literary community and progress. You can purchase packages to these author events that include tickets to the event and the writer's book. I receive a newsletter update via email, and was thrilled to see that Nicholas Sparks will be here on October 8th. The hallowed author of the romantic favorite the Notebook, Sparks has a new movie coming out and his stop in KC is a tribute to Rainy Day Books legitimacy and importance in our community. read more

I drive by this place all the time. The allure of the fantastic, simple name and their window display finally brought me in. Boy, am I glad to have found this safe haven for books. It was so simple. Basic. Good books by good authors. What more of a review do you need? Well, they also have had some amazing people stop by, including Al Gore, Annie Leibovitz, T. Boone Pickens (that crazy energy guy). Of course, they don't hang out at the tiny store, but at the Unity Temple at the Plaza. This place feels like a reliable professor who always has the answers to those pressing questions in life...well, at least literature wise... read more

The walk-in experience is not part of this review. It is concerning the online purchasing experience. Poor customer service communication with no order confirmation or shipping updates. Also a ridiculous ALL USA state tax policy. We would not recommend purchasing from this bookseller from their online store. read more