You can take the librarian out of the library… or can you? Wherever we go, I’m always on the lookout for libraries and indie bookstores. I was so excited when I saw this week’s TTT theme! Here’s 10 nifty bookish places I’ve been:
1. Hay-on-Wye, UK
Famous for being the world’s first book town, this absolute gem features 30 or so specialized bookstores, 2,000 or so residents and a local library to boot!
2. THE BRITISH LIBRARY, LONDON
One of the largest libraries in the world, the British Library is home to some 170 million materials. The Treasures Gallery contains the most beautiful manuscripts and books, including the Magna Carta.
3. 221B BAKER STREET, LONDON
A trip to London wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Sherlock Holmes museum…
4. Shakespeare’s Globe, London
…nor would it be complete without a visit to The Globe! I hope to return and see a performance someday, not just take a tour.
5. THE RABBIT HOLE, KANSAS CITY
This immersive museum celebrates children’s literature through the ages. I was lucky enough to get a behind-the-scenes preview before they opened when I attended the ALSC Institute in 2022!
6. KANSAS CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY
That picture of a big beautiful bookshelf everyone thinks is a library? That’s just the parking garage! The Library itself is just as amazing and cool on the inside. Formerly a bank, the underground vault now serves as the library’s movie theater!
7. THE STANLEY HOTEL, ESTES PARK
Famous for being the inspiration behind Stephen King’s The Shining, this historic hotel is considered one of America’s most haunted places. Alas, I witnessed not a single supernatural phenomenon when we stayed on the fourth floor.
8. COOPERATIVE CHILDREN’S BOOK CENTER, MADISON
The CCBC is a unique examination, study, and research library at UW-Madison recognized internationally for their work documenting diversity in children’s literature. I loved exploring the Gallery, which features artwork from beloved children’s book authors such as Maurice Sendak and Lois Ehlert.
9. A ROOM OF ONE’S OWN BOOKSTORE, MADISON
My favorite indie bookstore! Trans-owned, liberation-focused, feminist-founded in 1975.
10. CHAPTERS BOOKSTORE, NEWBERG
Shout-out to my local indie bookstore/coffee shop/ice creamery!
So many bookish places yet to explore! I have yet to visit Beverly Cleary’s childhood homes in Yamhill and Portland. I STILL haven’t been to Powell’s, despite having lived in Oregon for going on three years. 🫠I can’t wait to check out the new Anythink Nature Library the next time I head home to Colorado!
Where else should I go? Let me know in the comments below!
Storytime in the Stacks 