The Little Book — Local services in Des Moines

They have an excellent selection of children's, middle grade, and YA books, with both familiar titles and quirky options that I haven't seen elsewhere. Also a small selection of thoughtfully chosen toys and bookish merchandise. You can tell from the moment you walk in how much the store has proudly focused on diversity, inclusion, and social justice. They recently expanded the adult section, and though the space is small, the books are just as carefully selected - not just a collection of recent best sellers, but specifically chosen books that show they know their audience well.

But most importantly, the owners and employees clearly care about creating a space for everyone in the community. I have always felt welcomed and invited, even with small children. Our book budget is unfortunately limited, but when our family is able to invest in books, it will be at The Little Book and other small local bookstores in an effort to keep these spaces around in times when they are...

I was excited to learn a new children's bookstore was opening in the DSM area. I don't have any small kiddos at home anymore, but I love children's books and bookstores. My college age daughter I stopped in while we were out yesterday as a friend is expecting, and we wanted to get books for their two children and the new baby. We ended up spending almost an hour browsing. I bought a book from their "grown-up" section for a friend, and we found 3 adorable books to give to our friend's growing family. I also loved the rest of the items they carry - notebooks, shirts, stickers, games, stuffed animals, and so much more. The saleswoman was friendly and helpful. I am not familiar with the Highland Park area of Des Moines, so I am just hopeful it is a good location and the bookstore is successful, as it is a great addition...

The Little Book is such a gem in our Highland Park neighborhood! Their book selection is outstanding, covering all the age ranges and so many incredible genres/topics. I love and appreciate that they have sections of books labeled (ocean life, mythology, tough topics, friends/family, animals, etc). and that they have a few toys, stuffed animals, stickers, etc to chose from too. Our boys love to ask for gift cards to The Little Book for Christmas and birthdays (gift cards are available online too!). They have the most welcoming staff and the comfiest couches and chairs to cozy up on to read a couple books or enjoy their story/music times! (They also have a small selection of drinks and snacks…it’s almost like they really understand the way to a...