Reading has certainly evolved over the years, especially since we now have access to any book we could possibly want right at our fingertips. While reading on a computer, tablet, or smartphone is convenient, for some of us who grew up with books, it’s just not the same. Can anything compare to the smell of an old book or the slight creak a book makes when you open it? Next time you’ve got a free day or two, hit the road on this literary road trip in Pennsylvania, where you can rediscover the magic of reading all over again.

Here are the Google Maps directions for this road trip. The road trip to four bookstores and two libraries spans 223 miles with around four hours of drive time, not taking into consideration how much time you’ll spend at each destination. Add or remove stops, or customize to meet your interests and timeline. Whatever you do, though, have fun.

1. Cupboard Maker Books – Enola

Let’s start our literary road trip at perhaps the most colorful bookstore in Pennsylvania. You can’t miss Cupboard Maker Books in Enola. The exterior of the building is painted as book spines. Stroll through the front door where you might be greeted by one of the resident cats or the friendly fosters looking for a home. The 6,000-square-foot bookstore boasts an impressive collection of more than 5,000 new titles as well as used books. It also hosts events throughout the year.

2. Moyer’s Book Barn – Strasburg

Our next stop brings us to Moyer’s Book Barn in Strasburg, a family-owned bookstore that’s been a local favorite for nearly four decades. The shelves of this cozy shop are brimming with used books – more than 35,000 – including rare titles, first editions, and signed books. Bring cash or a check, especially if you plan to peruse the overstock room, where you’ll score some great reads for half off. Moyer’s Book Barn has extremely limited hours, so make sure they’re open before you set off.

3. Baldwin’s Book Barn – West Chester

We book lovers could probably spend hours, if not days, just browsing this massive five-story bookstore in West Chester. Tucked in a barn built in 1922, the bookstore has been a neighborhood staple since 1946. Baldwin’s Book Barn is far more than a bookstore; it’s a glimpse back in time. Carve out plenty of time to explore the collection of more than 300,000 rare, out-of-date, and used books, maps, and prints. If you stumble on a book you like, pull up a chair and read for a bit.  

4. Fisher Fine Arts Library – Philadelphia

Let’s head to one of the two libraries on our literary road trip. With its Victorian-style architecture, Fisher Fine Arts Library in Philadelphia is a National Historic Landmark. The historic library in Pennsylvania, which underwent a complete restoration in the late 20th century, is well worth exploring to view the ornate windows and unique architecture and to check out the collection of more than 150,000 books and two million digital images. Bring your ID, which will be photocopied by security before you’re allowed in.

5. Children’s Book World – Haverford

Remember how much fun it was going to bookstores as a kid? We can relive some of that childhood magic at our next stop. Children’s Book World, an independent bookstore in Haverford, has been a local favorite since 1989. The shelves are brimming with books for all ages, from toddlers to teens. Browse the shop that also sells such fun items as stuffed animals and jigsaw puzzles. Children’s Book World hosts events, too, so keep an eye on its calendar.

6. McCormick Riverfront Library – Harrisburg

Our final stop brings us to McCormick Riverfront Library in Harrisburg. The historic library dates back to 1889 but it’s been in its current location on Walnut Street since 1914. Spend some time exploring the 13,000-square-foot library that features approximately 36,000 books. It also hosts events and programs for readers of all ages.

Next time you’re in Western Pennsylvania, visit the Braddock Carnegie Library, a library in Pittsburgh that looks like it’s stepped straight from a fairy tale. Before you head out on this literary road trip, check out the OIYS road trip essentials packing list.