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Best Children's Bookstores In Minnesota

Everyone loves a good book. Everyone loves a good bookstore too. With one of the highest literacy rates in the country, Minnesotans enjoy spending time browsing the shelves of their local bookstore. For some, this experience is made even better when they can bring their kids to the bookstore with them because they love it just as much. These community bookstores stock up on children's literature and make sure kids are the ones asking to go to the bookstore.

Bookstore
(credit: Thinkstock)

Cherry Street Books
503 Broadway St.
Alexandria, MN 56308
(320) 763-9400
www.facebook.com/Cherry-Street-Books-LLC

Cherry Street Books, in downtown Alexandria, is a local favorite for kids and adults alike. Aside from a large selection of children's literature, Cherry Street Books carries unique gifts, paper goods and journals. Shop for a gift and enjoy complimentary gift wrapping. Special events run throughout the year including author visits and featured Minnesota authors. Bring the whole family to shop or browse at this kid-friendly venue.

Sister Wolf Books
20471 Highway 226
Park Rapids, MN 56470
(218) 732-7565
www.sisterwolfbooks.com

Located in northern Minnesota, Sister Wolf Books is a seasonal bookstore owned and operated by members of the community. For kids of all ages, Sister Wolf Books was opened to inspire literature and reading in the area. What started as a small bookshop has turned into a community gem and neighborhood gathering place. Sister Wolf opens on Memorial Day and and closes on Labor Day for the season. In between, there are special events for kids, book clubs and author signings. Check out the coffee bar, The Wolf Den, while you're there and grab a treat while you browse.

Turtle Town Books
25491 Main St.
Nisswa, MN 56468
(218) 963-4891
www.turtletownnisswa.com

Previously known as Rainy Day Books, Turtle Town is a quaint independent bookstore located in downtown Nisswa. Children will love this bookstore, as half of it is primarily children's books and gifts dedicated to children. Doubling as a gift shop, Turtle Town carries games, toys and art activities that make great gifts for kids. Turtle Town offers story times on the weekends to encourage literacy for children as well as author events and book signings. The shop even allows you to download its books on your reading device. Bring your kids for a day of fun at Turtle Town.

Related: Most Community-Centered Bookstores In Minnesota

Explorations
2322 Mountain Shadow Dr.
Duluth, MN 55811
(218) 722-1651
www.explorationstoystore.com

Although it's more a toy store than a bookstore, Explorations is fabulously kid friendly. Toys are available for play and education while parents browse around the large store. Check out the selection of education books and materials to promote learning and curiosity in your children. The shop carries everyone's favorite brands along with the best quality, and can even order something if you don't see it in stock. Bring your kids up to Duluth for some fun and educational activities to enjoy.

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The Book Shelf
162 W. 2nd St.
Winona, MN 55987
(507) 474-1880
www.bookshelfwinona.com

In the quaint town of Winona lies an equally quaint bookstore that caters to the community. The Book Shelf is an independent bookstore across the street from Winona State University on West 2nd Street. With a large selection of children's books, this is a great destination to pick up a read for your child. Book clubs are supported by the Book Shelf and are always starting up. The Book Club also shares space with the Blue Heron Coffee Shop so sip on a cup of joe while you browse.

Related: 
Best Specialty Bookstores In Minnesota

Andrea Wodele is a freelance writer who has lived in the Twin Cities for eight years. She loves covering all things Minnesota and her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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