For a bookstore that's been around the block a few times, Myopic certainly has maintained a loyal following. In August 2003, this Wicker Park staple shuffled back to its original spot on Milwaukee (after stints on Damen Avenue and Division Street) to peddle its vast collection of mostly used books in custom-made, labyrinthine stacks.

Regulars and meticulous first-timers love Myopic's sizeable fiction section, so thorough that it carries titles unheard of in mainstreams like Borders and Barnes & Noble. Not far behind are Myopic’s deep history and biography collections. Yet its claim to fame might be the fact that it's open until 1 a.m. nightly (except Sundays). Other loveable quirks include live experimental music Monday nights, monthly art installations, a lithe store cat, and a "geek" section featuring comics, graphic novels, occult and Star Trek-worthy reads.

Centerstage Reviewer: M. Cecilia Wong