Idle Hours Bookshop

Great little bookstore in the heart of South Bend. Full of hidden gems. My only complaint is that they aren't open late, but I don't hold that against them. Small stock, almost cramped quarters, but it is filled with that lovely old bookstore smell (from the glue and paper of the old books), and is always a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

This little hole in the wall is the perfect place to disappear into while checking out downtown South Bend. Just when you think you've reached the back of the shop, there's another turn and a new sections to discover! I am never disappointed. I always walk away with a smile and a book (or four!) in my hands.

Really charming book store filled to the brim from floor to ceiling. The first thing I noticed when I walked in was the scent of old books. The lady behind the counter was so nice and helpful. They were playing this really beautiful music and I just wanted to spend all day here. If you miss the small local book store then you'll love this place.

Josie is a good woman and runs a great shop. I appreciate she's willing to work with local authors.

Update: I'm sorry to hear the storefront is closing, but I wish all the best to Josie and the family in the transition to online sales. I'll miss setting up in front of the store, and chatting with random people about my books (Terrifying Tales: 13 Scary Stories for Children.)

My daughter and I love this store. We always find interesting, older books that you can't get at other stores.

Fantastic cozy indie bookstore in downtown South Bend. Friendly and very helpful owners.. I could spend hours in here just browsing.

Private gookstore in downtown South Bend. Fantastic atmosphere, with great history and culture. One of my favorite stops in the city.

Great little bookshop. You can find some really neat old books if you poke around enough.

I love this shop. It has a wonderful selection and is run by very friendly and intelligent people. It is a real asset to our city.

Small, cramped, jam-packed with an eclectic selection of used books....it's exactly what I'm looking for in a used bookstore.

Great place to find interesting books of all genres

Good selection and friendly staff. Sad they are closing :(

I really enjoyed looking around! What a gem!

Great !!!! 📙📘📗📚📚📚📚

Don't know what you're looking for? Love the smell of old books? This is the place for you. They didn't have what I wanted but that didn't stop me from finding a book or two. Good staff. Will be back again.