Celebrate World Book Day in the Twin Cities Gateway: Your Guide to Local Bookstores
Happy World Book Day! Every year on April 23rd, book lovers around the globe celebrate the joy of reading, authors, and the wonderful places that connect us with stories – our beloved bookstores. Here in Minnesota, the Twin Cities Gateway region, encompassing the vibrant northern metro communities of Anoka, Arden Hills, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Fridley, Ham Lake, Lino Lakes, Mounds View, New Brighton, Ramsey and Shoreview, has its own literary treasures waiting to be explored.
This World Book Day, why not venture out and discover a new favorite spot or revisit an old standby? Supporting local bookstores means supporting our communities, fostering connection, and ensuring these vital spaces continue to thrive. Ready to find your next great read? Let’s explore the bookstores within the Twin Cities Gateway!
Anoka's Literary Stop
The historic city of Anoka offers this charming spot for book enthusiasts:
- Avant Garden Bookstore (215 E Main St, Anoka): More than just books, Avant Garden combines the love of reading with the aroma of fresh coffee. It’s a local coffee house featuring books, baked goods, and a cozy atmosphere with brick walls and wood floors – perfect for settling in with a new purchase.
Arden Hills' Finds
Nestled among lakes and parks, Arden Hills hosts unique places for readers:
- Rabata Cultural Center & Bookshop (3533 Lexington Ave N, Arden Hills): Offering more than just books, this center provides a cultural hub alongside its bookshop selections.
- Campus Store (Arden Hills): Located near the University of Northwestern, this campus store likely caters to students and the academic community but is worth checking out.
Blaine's Book Havens
Blaine provides options for both broad selections and specialized interests:
- Barnes & Noble (710 County Hwy 10 NE, Blaine): The well-known national retailer offers a wide selection of new titles, bestsellers, magazines, and gifts for all ages.
- St. George Christian Books and Gifts (10904 Baltimore St NE, Blaine): For those seeking inspirational reads, Bibles, and faith-based literature and gifts, this specialty store is the place to go.
Coon Rapids' Chapter
A popular destination for bargain hunters and lovers of pre-owned gems:
- Half Price Books (8601 Springbrook Dr NW, Coon Rapids): A haven for finding used books, vinyl records, movies, and more at great prices. You never know what treasures you might uncover!
Why Your Local Bookstore Matters
In an increasingly digital world, physical bookstores offer something special:
- Community Hubs: They host author events, book clubs, and children’s story times.
- Discovery: Browse shelves often leads to discovering unexpected authors and genres.
- Expertise: Passionate booksellers offer personalized recommendations.
- Local Economy: Shopping local keeps money circulating within our communities.
Celebrate World Book Day (and Every Day)!
This April 23rd, make a point to visit one of these Twin Cities Gateway bookstores. Buy a book for yourself or a friend, browse the aisles, or simply soak in the atmosphere. Let’s keep the pages turning in our communities!
We’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite bookstore in the Twin Cities Gateway or nearby areas? What book are you currently reading? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
