On a crisp Saturday morning in early October, a group of students from MCLA embarked on a literary adventure, organized by the Freel Library staff.
This unique event offered participants the chance to visit a selection of independent bookstores across the Pioneer Valley, an area known for its rich literary culture and beautiful landscapes. The trip, taking place on October 5th and lasting from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., provided a full day of adventure and discovery. Every student present was even allowed to choose one book for the library to purchase—up to $50 in value.
More exciting than that, each student who chose a book would be the first person to borrow it, creating a personal connection to the library’s growing collection.
The day began early, with students meeting at the Freel Library parking lot at 10 a.m. After everyone settled in the van, the journey eastward began.
The first stop on the itinerary was Raven Used Books, nestled in the picturesque town of Shelburne Falls. Having recently relocated from Harvard Square, Raven Used Books offered a carefully curated selection of scholarly and literary works. Students found themselves surrounded by books on philosophy, social theory, art and architecture, music, history, classical studies, science, religion, and more. It was the kind of place where one could stumble upon a rare academic gem or discover a classic text that sparks inspiration.
The store’s cozy interior, combined with the crisp mountain air of Shelburne Falls, set the tone for the intellectual journey ahead.
After spending 45 minutes at Raven Used Books, the group hopped back into the van and made their way to the vibrant downtown area of Greenfield. From noon until 1:30 p.m., students had free time to explore this eclectic part of the Pioneer Valley.
Greenfield’s downtown boasted a variety of unique attractions, including two must-visit bookstores. The first one was the Imaginary Bookshop, a genre-specific bookshop that championed works from small presses and authors from marginalized communities, women, and other underrepresented groups. For those interested in exploring diverse voices and narratives, this store was a treasure trove.
After, Federal Street Books offered a wide range of both used and new books, providing plenty of options for students to explore different literary tastes.
Beyond the bookstores, Greenfield offered plenty to explore in the form of local cafes, restaurants, and other shops. Whether students were hunting for vinyl at the local record store, browsing through treasures at consignment shops, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere, Greenfield provided an hour and a half of open-ended discovery.
As for meals, students could either bring their own box lunches, provided by the Freel Library team, or venture into town to grab a meal on their own, like sampling something from the local food co-op or trying a new dish from an Eastern European grocery store.
Following the leisurely afternoon in Greenfield, the group headed to Turners Falls, where they visited Unnamable Books. This bookstore, though compact, offered an impressive selection of new and used books across all major genres. Particularly strong in poetry, philosophy, and fiction, Unnameable Books was a quiet haven for those who loved to browse and think.
Turners Falls itself was a charming town with a scenic walking and bike path that ran along the Connecticut River.
After spending an hour wandering the aisles of Unnameable Books or taking a moment to explore the riverfront, students regrouped for the final leg of the journey.
The last stop of the day was the Montague Bookmill, a hidden gem located in the town of Montague. True to its slogan, “Books you don’t need in a place you can’t find,” the Bookmill was set in a historic mill, overlooking a river.
This store was not just about the books —though its wide selection of both academic and popular titles was impressive— but also about the atmosphere. The beautiful setting, the sense of history, and the quiet serenity of the space made it a unique and memorable destination.
Students spent time browsing through the store’s vast collection and stepping outside to enjoy the view of the river from the mill’s outdoor seating area. There was also a nearby café, where visitors could grab a quick snack or drink while reflecting on the day’s literary finds
By 5 p.m., the group returned to MCLA, tired but enriched by a day spent among books, ideas, and beautiful New England scenery.
For students who cherish the joy of discovery —whether it’s finding a long-sought-after title or stumbling upon a new author— this trip was a dream come true. Not only did they have the chance to explore some of the region’s most unique independent bookstores, but they also left with a deeper connection to the Freel Library, having personally selected a book that will become part of its collection.
In a world increasingly dominated by digital media, this trip offered a reminder of the enduring magic of books and the communities that celebrate them.
