The MORE that you READ, the more THINGS you will KNOW.

The MORE you LEARN, the more PLACES you’ll GO!

– Dr. Seuss

Ready to sink into your next story, but need a little inspiration on where to start? Here are my top reading nooks in Kansas City.

Head to a Bookstore

  • Prospero’s Books: Prospero’s is the perfect place to explore before or after dining on W. 39th St. And, they get extra points for stocking The Urban Libraries found around KC (think Free Little Library’s, but with an urban spin).
  • Rainy Day Books: One of the best independent book stores in the U.S. Plus, they boast a calendar with over 300 Author Events each year.
  • Steel’s Used Books: I stumbled in here one Snake Saturday and didn’t want to stumble back out. This is the quintessential ‘get lost in the stacks’ book store.
  • Half Price Books: While not an independent book store, HBP helps us reduce our footprint as we buy used instead of new.

Visit KC’s Great Libraries

  • Kansas City Public Library: With the stunning flagship Central Library on 10th Street and the popular Plaza Branch, our libraries are a great place to visit, whether you’re looking for a bestseller, an old favorite, or a quiet place to read.
  • Mid-Continent Public Library: Mid-Continent Public Library is the largest library system in the metropolitan area with locations throughout the area and a focus on giving back.

Enjoy KC’s Outdoor Spaces

  • Richard Berkley Riverfront Park: Snag a picnic table and watch the sunset behind the Missouri river.
  • Loose Park: Bring a blanket and take turns between reading and people watching.
  • Delaware Street (between 3rd and 5th): My favorite street in KC and a great place to relax.
  • The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art lawn: KC’s most iconic lawn, and for good reason.
  • Kauffman Memorial Garden: A beautiful, quiet place to settle into a good story.

Help Others Read

  • Literacy KC: Help adults in KC improve their literacy skills like reading, math, and computer skills.
  • Reach Out and Read: Provide books to children in low-income neighborhoods.
  • Lead to Read: Explore the world by reading books with kids in grades 1 through 4 from every walk of life.

What’s missing from my list? Leave a comment with your favorite place to get lost in a good book.