:: the bookstore

there's an incredible used/rare bookstore in detroit.
the expansive building houses four stories of books--
packed onto shelves.
towered into toppling stacks on the floor.
or resting displayed in glass cases.

your first time there can be a little overwhelming.
they even hand you a map when you walk in.

but i love this place.
the ancient building sags.
the floorboards creak.
and the musty smell of old books lingers in the air.

the aisles are lit by single light bulbs that hang from wires.
and the tattered wooden windows open wide to the city.

there is always a gem to be uncovered there.
whether it be a gorgeous old tome from early 1900's paris.
or a slender volume about the art of writing.
rest assured there is something magical waiting for you.

i've even had some of my best old photo
and vinyl record
finds here.

i wish every bibliophile could spend a day enraptured in this place.


++


on my latest visit.
i looked out one of the open windows.
across the freeway.
and saw a sign that read:

"time to engage".

i smiled.


well said, detroit.

well said.