Ever since I was a little girl I’ve loved to read. While I always enjoyed playing with toys, I loved to pop in the bookstore with my mom whenever she needed to go to the mall, and after a little convincing, she’d buy me at least one book from the huge tower I had pulled together. I was obsessed with the Baby Sitter’s Club and Sweet Valley High series (where you more Jessica or Elizabeth?), and to this day, there is nothing more relaxing than enjoying a nice cup tea and a big book. As a blogger I have to consume so much information via my computer so when I do have free moments, I like to go to some of the local bookstores. A kindle will never replace the feel and smell of books for me, so spending time at book stores are my way of detaching and going analog, if only for a moment. One of my favorites to go to is Burke’s Book Store (936 S. Cooper Street). Although it’s had many incarnations since it opened in 1875, I’ve only known it in the Cooper-Young area, and IMO, it’s a perfect fit. It boasts a large inventory of new, used, and rare books, but the layout is still quaint and not overwhelming. There are chairs and couches sprinkled throughout in nooks, so if you want, you can just find a little corner and browse away. My favorite sections to go to (obviously) are fashion, beauty, art, interior design and architecture. I also love checking out some of the bios. I’ve been able to find some really great deals on popular books, but most importantly, taking a break to flip through the books gives me sooo much inspiration. In order to stay creative, you have to seek out visual and mental stimulation from other places. They also have a kids corner, which is pretty cool. In another life, I was a coffee shop/bookstore owner. I’m positive of this. I picked up these two books for myself for less than $14: If you have the time, definitely take a moment to visit. It’s surrounded by restaurants, shopping, and a little coffee shop, so you won’t be disappointed! Burke’s Book Store 936 South Cooper Street Memphis, TN 38104 Phone 901-278-7484 E-Mail info@burkesbooks.com HOURS Monday – Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Do you have any favorite bookstores near you? What makes you love them? Comment below! Tribal Prints at Aldo's Shoes Inspiration Board | Simple Floral Arrangements