A clean, well-lighted bookstore

New books, both hardcover and paperback, are located on white shelves, while used ones are on brown shelves. Photo by Erika Siebring.

There’s a certain aura about a used book store that's relaxing: the tall wooden bookshelves, the antique chairs, the quotes from Benjamin Franklin and "Poor Richard's Almanack" hidden around the room.

In the case of Poor Richard’s Book Shoppe, the thick smell of old books mingles with that of new ones, offering a wide selection behind a grey windowpane and long, white shades. It’s a calm, inviting place; the only sounds are that of the air-conditioning and a bell above the door, dinging every time someone comes in. Visitors are greeted by an old man nonchalantly looking up from his own book, and an older woman sitting on a stool as she returns loose parcels to their respective sections.

Aside from two comic book and collectible stores, this quaint nook is the only bookstore in Parker, as Barnes & Noble and 2nd & Charles, a second-hand book and game store, are about 15 minutes away. Used paperbacks are listed as half off and this store’s inventory contains authors of all genres, from Stephen King to children’s books. For any fan of reading, Richard’s selections are guaranteed to be more affordable without sacrificing quality.

Located mere steps from Fika Coffee House, an ideal afternoon would be spent picking up one of these paperbacks and reading it over coffee.