Economy Shop — Local services in Oak Park

My friend from Brazil who would be considered black, was discriminated against by a volunteer who approached him and asked him if he was going to check out what he had in his hands. He only had his phone and keys in his hands. When he asked her if she was checking everybody or just him because he was black, she replied that she was Hispanic, and that he was not black but “cafe on leche” (coffee with milk), which like it or not is still a racist remark. Being Hispanic doesn’t eliminate or makes it ok to be racist. He was with another white friend who told the volunteer that nobody had approached the white friend, and that friend had items in her bag. They both reported her to the manager, but nobody did anything. No apology. My friend left afterwards. I feel that the behavior of this volunteer and manager doesn’t represent the mission of Economy Shop but it does feel like it doesn’t make one welcome. If they are suspicious of anybody, this should be address in a different manner, and it should be address by security, not by a racist volunteer. I’m very sad that this took place especially because my friend was told not to make scene when identifier Ing the racist volunteer. They were more concerned about the racist volunteer, than concerned for him, and how embarrassed he was by the scene the racist volunteer put him through. I hope this volunteer is retrained on cultural competency to address cultural situations in a less...

A great resale shop. It isn't handicap friendly, zero wheelchair accessibility. Best to leave the kids at home. Tight spaces and hard to see spots. Reminds me of an Antique Mall feel. At some points you might have to dig in boxes. I came for the games. Big disappointment to find out most of the games I wanted, were missing pieces, but you have that problem with other resale shops. The best part, they discounted the games that did have missing pieces. 3 floors with kind volunteers working them. Next time, I will bring my own bag. No handicap parking. Only street parking. Come early and take your time digging for your treasure. I'd go back with my own bag and leave my coat in the car. Yes, the ventilation needs improvement. 3 hour limit parking 8am to 8pm. Bring cash, but they do take credit cards. Each room you pay for your purchase. There is coat check room available. Sign up for their emails to see...

I love the Economy Shop for books, craft supplies, jewelry and women’s clothes and shoes. As with any used or vintage shop, you have to be ready to hunt for what you like or what you’re looking for. Several of the rooms usually have 50% off deals which is always exciting. I recommend going first thing when they open and heading straight to whatever room is your favorite, as the good deals move fast. For an example of what you might find, just today I scored an All Saints top in my size for $20 and two $1 hair scrunches with scarf bows which I had been thinking about ordering from Etsy for $25. I also needed a new white belt and I found one for $1. I almost don’t want to write this review so this place stays a secret, it’s too good! Please note for those with mobility issues or small children, you may want to pass. It can be crowded and you must navigate up and down narrow stairs...