Prologue Bookshop — Local services in Columbus

There’s nothing like a warm and friendly bookstore—but unfortunately, Prologue Bookstore was anything but. During my first visit, I noticed that the person behind the counter didn’t acknowledge me or my partner, yet greeted the two people who walked in after us. I made a mental note and continued browsing before leaving.

Hoping it was just an oversight, we visited again today—only to have the exact same experience. We walked in without so much as a nod of acknowledgment, while white patrons received a warm welcome.

I wanted to support a local business, especially one that carried the books I was looking for, but I left wishing I had just ordered online. With so many independent bookstores struggling to stay open, I can only hope Prologue does better—providing consistent, authentic service to all patrons, free from personal bias, regardless of what they look like.

A simple acknowledgment when someone walks in...

My first time visiting Prologue was an overall enjoyable experience. It's a small, cozy, well-curated indie shop with a lot to offer for book lovers.

Though the space is on the smaller side compared to other places I’ve visited, the selection is broad—from new releases and classics to unique finds like movie scripts for Get Out and A24 films.

I especially appreciated the handwritten staff notes on various titles throughout the store—it's low-key one of my favorite things about bookstores these days.

The only small critique would be the lack of greeting or interaction when my wife and I walked in. It's a bit of a contrast to the warm, welcoming vibe you usually get at indie bookstores.

Still, the overall experience was pleasurable, and I’d definitely recommend stopping by if you’re book-hunting down...

A small bookshop with absolutely amazing curation and a great aesthetic. Have you ever read a short story and thought, “This was written very intentionally with no wasted words?” This bookshop is like the writer of that story. Everything is intentional. There is no wasted space. The books on the shelves are chosen so well, the genres easy to find. Want to know why they were chosen? There are “shelf talker” cards throughout to explain why they’re there. There are so many staff picks, you know you’re in a space created by readers, for readers. I mean, it’s a bookstore, so yeah, but it’s a really good one. You will find something new, unexpected, and fantastic to read...