I think it’s pretty funny that I found the pamphlet for this bookstore at a rest stop in Virginia on the way home from a trip down south.  For some reason, I had managed to never hear about an awesome bookstore in Harrisburg, PA…a short distance from where I grew up.  For someone who loves books, this concept is preposterous.

I’m not sure how long it has been in operation, but this place is fantastic and I highly recommend this place to other book lovers out there.  The pamphlet itself is a beautiful advertisement boasting neat photos and facts.

The facility is 10,000 square feet and houses the largest used book collection between New York City and Chicago.  The rare book collection is amazing, with some pieces dating back to the 1500s!  You can have your own little piece of history, but just remember that the old/rare books can easily set you back $700 – $1,200 a pop.

As if the impressive book selection wasn’t enough to keep patrons around for hours, there is a coffee/tea bar and a pastry area upon arrival, a stage for live events and signings in the main room, a bakery that also serves sandwiches near the children’s area, a room to play chess, balcony seating overlooking the main hall and an outdoor patio with a few tables attached to the gallery, perched on the third floor with a view of the Broad Street Market.

Throughout the store, there is artwork for sale, delicious aromas and people doing research or pleasure reading without the distraction of electronics.

If you happen to find yourself in the central PA area and need a few things to do, this bookstore should be on your list of stops.  (Be sure to include a trip to the Capitol building in downtown Harrisburg, along with the state museum, and a day to explore Hershey Park/Chocolate World a short distance away…it is the sweetest place on earth after all!  These three locations would make the perfect weekend getaway).