Welcoming Kevin Bendle as Executive Director of the Seminary Co-op Bookstores

Dear Seminary Co-op Community,

The Seminary Co-op Board of Directors is thrilled to welcome Kevin Bendle as the new Executive Director of the Seminary Co-op Bookstores.

Kevin has 24 years of experience in bookselling and managing bookstores, primarily with a series of Barnes & Noble University bookstores. He was, among other things, manager of the University of Chicago B&N in Hyde Park and at the Gleacher Center for most of those 24 years. Kevin knows our stores well and we are certain of his commitment to maintaining their unique character and mission for both the University and the wider South Side Community.

Kevin shares, “I am excited to join the Seminary Co-op Bookstores team, and am humbled to steward these cultural institutions. I look forward to meeting you in the stacks!”

We look forward to his leadership ensuring that the Seminary Co-op and 57th Street Books will continue to serve our communities for another 65 years.

Katie Parsons
On behalf of the Seminary Co-op Bookstores Board of Directors

Katie Parsons is the Chair of the Seminary Co-op Board of Directors. She has held this position since 2021.