Today I’d like to tell you about another Fort Wayne institution: Hyde Brothers Books.
When I was in the Navy (gosh, that seems like a whole other lifetime ago), I was stationed at the Fleet Training Group in San Diego. We were responsible for training all U.S. Navy Pacific Fleet ships and all Pacific Area U.S. Coast Guard cutters and boats. We traveled up and down the west coast. One of my favorite trips was when they would send us to Seattle to train the USCG cutters. Not only was there a coffee cart on every street corner, but when you were downtown, you couldn’t walk more than a block without crossing at least one used bookstore. These stores were all different, each with its own flavor.
When Nora and I moved to Fort Wayne, we found out about Hyde Brothers and on our first visit, all those memories of countless hours wandering through the Seattle bookstores came flooding back.
Hyde Brothers Books is a literary treasure here in Fort Wayne. Nestled in Fort Wayne’s Wells Corridor, it’s a short 1.2 mile (4 minute) drive from the Grand Wayne Convention Center and stands as a beacon for bibliophiles and casual readers alike. Since its founding, this independent bookstore has cultivated a reputation not only as one of the best bookstores in the Midwest but as a cornerstone of Fort Wayne’s cultural landscape.
With more 150,000 titles, on two levels, lining its shelves, Hyde Brothers offers an immersive experience that transcends the typical retail encounter, inviting visitors to lose themselves in the world of literature.
Hyde Brothers Books traces its roots to the passion and vision of its founders, Sam and Joel Hyde. Established in the early 1990s, the store was born out of a love for books and a desire to create a space where stories and ideas could be celebrated and shared. What began as a modest operation has steadily grown, both in terms of inventory and influence. The store’s current location, at 1428 Wells Street, is a testament to its enduring success, boasting a sprawling layout that rewards exploration with discovery.
Unlike chain bookstores, Hyde Brothers has always prioritized quality and uniqueness, curating an eclectic mix of used and rare books. Over the decades, the shop has adapted to the changing landscape of book retail, weathering the rise of digital media and the challenges posed by online giants. Despite these shifts, Hyde Brothers remains committed to the tangible, tactile joy of reading, a commitment evident in the lovingly maintained shelves and the knowledgeable staff who guide visitors through literary treasures both familiar and obscure.
Stepping into Hyde Brothers is an experience in itself. Stacks upon stacks of books create a labyrinthine of charm, with narrow aisles leading to hidden nooks and thematic sections that reflect the owners’ deep knowledge of literature. The store is renowned for its welcoming and peaceful ambiance, a place where time seems to slow down and the outside world fades away.
The decor exudes a cozy, old-world feel, complemented by wooden shelves, vintage posters, and the occasional store cat lounging atop a pile of novels. This atmosphere draws in a diverse clientele: students searching for affordable texts, collectors hunting for rare editions, and lifelong locals relishing the nostalgia of their favorite neighborhood bookstore.
One of the defining features of Hyde Brothers is its extraordinary selection. The store boasts more than 150,000 books spanning a wide range of genres—fiction, non-fiction, science fiction, fantasy, history, children’s literature, and more. Whether you’re searching for a first edition classic, a contemporary novel, or an out-of-print specialty book, Hyde Brothers is likely to have something for everyone.
The staff’s expertise further enriches the browsing experience. Employees are often avid readers themselves, ready to offer recommendations and share insights on everything from the latest bestsellers to hidden gems. The store also supports local authors, offering shelf space to regional writers and fostering a sense of community among Fort Wayne’s literary enthusiasts.
John Figueroa
IPMS/USA 2026 National Convention Chairperson