Kenyon College Bookstore

The Kenyon College Bookstore, established in 1825, is the nation's longest continuously-operating college bookstore and the third-oldest bookstore of any kind in America. The bookstore was the vision of Kenyon's founder and first president, Philander Chase, who recognized the need for a central location on campus where students could access a wide range of books and educational materials. Today, the Kenyon College Bookstore stands as a pillar of the college community, providing a diverse array of services and products to students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

Books and Beyond

While books remain at the heart of the Kenyon College Bookstore, the store offers much more than just textbooks and course materials. The trade book department boasts a wide selection of fiction and nonfiction titles, covering subjects from anthropology to zoology. If a book is not currently in stock, the store's knowledgeable staff is always ready to order it. Additionally, the store carries a variety of clothing, gifts, food, and drink, glassware, greeting cards, stationery, and sundries, making it a one-stop-shop for all the needs and wants of the Kenyon community.

A Social Hub

More than just a store, the Kenyon College Bookstore serves as a social hub on campus. With comfortable seating and a welcoming atmosphere, the bookstore invites customers to sit, read, and relax, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. As noted in the Wall Street Journal, the bookstore functions as "a second living room, " providing a space where students, faculty, and staff can come together to enjoy each other's company and engage in intellectual pursuits.

Supporting the College and Its Scholars

The Kenyon College Bookstore is committed to supporting the college and its students. All profits from bookstore operations benefit the College's general scholarship fund, helping to make a Kenyon education accessible to a diverse range of students. By shopping at the Kenyon College Bookstore, customers contribute to the ongoing success and growth of the college and its community.

Two Websites, One Unified Experience

The Kenyon College Bookstore maintains two websites to serve the needs of its customers. Shopkenyon.com features college apparel, gifts, and merchandise, as well as texts adopted for classes at Kenyon. Kenyon.edu/bookstore is part of the college's institutional website and provides general information about the store, including policies, service details, and historical documents. Both websites aim to provide customers with an informative, convenient, and engaging shopping experience.

Stay Connected

To stay up-to-date on the latest news, events, and offerings from the Kenyon College Bookstore, be sure to follow the store on Facebook. The Kenyon College Bookstore Gift Card makes the perfect gift for any occasion, offering flexibility and convenience for both the recipient and the giver.