About Our Inventory
Our collection
Redbud Books offers a thoughtfully curated, ever‑evolving collection that reflects both local sensibilities and broader intellectual conversations. Drawing on the passion and expertise of Bloomington’s readers, scholars, and makers, we stock an eclectic mix—new and used—of fiction, poetry, literary criticism, philosophy, and critical theory, alongside titles in radical magazines and regional essays.
Our selections are intentionally non-commercial and community‑driven; rather than chasing bestseller shelves, Redbud emphasizes works that provoke dialogue, expand perspectives, and connect readers with emergent or underrepresented voices. From university press releases to independent small‑press gems, each acquisition reflects our collective curiosity and commitment to social, political, and aesthetic inquiry.
As demand and community interests shift, our shelves shift too. We replenish titles from presses like Duke University Press, carry issues of new radical publications such as Heatwave, and regularly update our collection to include timely contributions in social theory and cultural commentary.
In essence, Redbud’s inventory is not just a bookstore—it’s a living archive of conversation, curated through sustained engagement with local readers, community partners, and the shifting currents of public thought.
Curation
At Redbud Books, curation is a community-driven, thoughtful, and locally engaged endeavor. Our selections emerge from the collective intelligence and curiosity of volunteers, scholars, artists, and readers across Bloomington. Rather than chasing trends, we focus on works that spark reflection, conversation, and deeper understanding—with an emphasis on new and used titles in fiction, poetry, literary criticism, philosophy, and cultural theory.
Our inventory is intentionally eclectic and idiosyncratic—guided not by bestseller lists but by the interests and insights of local experts and passionate readers. We regularly feature titles from university presses, small independent publishers, radical magazines, and emerging voices in social thought, all selected to provoke inquiry and nurture possibility.
Books are grouped into evolving thematic categories—curated by those with deep familiarity in pivotal areas of inquiry. This ensures the store’s offerings remain responsive to community needs and ongoing public conversations, and reflect both the regional context and broader cultural dialogues. In this way, our collections will shift and expand as our community and world change around us.
Can find what you’re looking for?
Visit our special orders & affiliate store page for more information about requesting or ordering titles we don’t carry or that aren’t currently in stock.
