FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions

How do I place an order?
You can place an order in any of the following ways: in person at either one of our showrooms, over the phone (847.492.8780 or 312.867.1669), or by e-mail orders@57thstreetbookcases.com.

How do I get a quote on a custom or built-in project?
Send us an e-mail at estimates@57thstreetbookcases.com with the dimensions, desired wood type and finish, a picture of the space (for built-ins), and a short description of what you're looking for. We'll e-mail you back with an estimate, or some additional questions / comments.

Where is your work made?
All our work is made at our workshop in Chicago's Lower West Side neighborhood.

What's your lead time?
Lead times are dependent on a variety of factors: time of year, current order volume, size of order, nature of order, particular wood species, and finish, to name a few. Get in touch with us and we can provide you with the estimated lead time on a particular order or project.

I need a bookcase right away. What do I do?
Check out our AT OUR SHOWROOM page for bookcases that we keep in stock.

Do you deliver? How much is delivery? Where do you deliver?
Yes! We definitely deliver. We deliver exclusively in the Chicagoland area. Delivery and installation is an additional fee; this fee is determined by location, size of the order, and the amount of installation / work required onsite in your home. Get in touch with us and we can tell you how much the delivery and installation for a proposed order will cost. And, yes, we're insured.

Do I need to have my piece delivered?
No! You can choose to pick your order up at either one of our showrooms. (We're happy to help you load it into your car.) It will also save you a few dollars!

Do I have to assemble anything?
No! All our work comes fully assembled.

Do you ship outside of Chicago?
While we can and do ship our work to other parts of the USA, it tends to be inordinately expensive. Generally, we encourage interested parties living outside of Chicago to explore their local options. Usually, you'll be able to find a capable woodworker or craftsman in your neighborhood. (It's both sustainable and supportive of local economies!) If you really want our work, though, and can't find something of comparable quality where you live, get in touch with us and we can work something out.

How do I care for my piece?
For natural oil and wax finishes, we recommend Old English brand lemon oil. You can find it at most hardware stores, including Home Depot, Lowe's, and Ace Hardware. Apply a few drops to a dry cloth rag and vigorously rub it into the wood. Do this once every two years or whenever the wood begins to look "dry."