Finding a great bookstore has the same effect on me as seeing a puppy or knowing where to find the perfect cup of coffee. It’s a mixture of anticipation and excitement blended with satisfaction. I always imagine a bookstore to have that “hot of the press” smell, with its latest editions, highly anticipated sequels, classics, and coffee table books.

I was surprised to find out that not everyone knows that there are bookstores in Lake Placid and Saranac Lake. What? Don’t worry. I’m assuming no one got lost at the trailhead when I directed the family to Lake Placid’s The Bookstore Plus and Saranac Lake’s The Book Nook. Even if you are a patron or potential customer, now is the chance to walk through the aisles of a local business because… drum roll, please … April 28 is Independent Bookstore Day! Yes!

The celebration varies from location to location, but both shops have their own unique vibe. I also understand the philosophy that anything can be bought online. The reason I keep walking into a bookstore rather than buying online is for the customer service. The book prices are not that different and I still have to wait for the free shipping. If the book I want isn’t at the bookstore, I can have it shipped there. The shipping issue just covers one aspect of what these bookstores offer. There are also story times/crafts for the young ones and Book Club Skype sessions with award-winning authors. Each time I enter through the door there is someone there that provides a connection whether it’s through a love of reading, writing, or drawing.

If you can’t make the official Independent Bookstore Day celebration, just pretend every day is Independent Bookstore Day. There is usually something going on such a stack of new releases, adult coloring book nights, or author autograph sessions.

Since 1973, The Bookstore Plus, 2491 Main Street St., Lake Placid has offered a variety of materials and activities to visitors and the community. In addition to a wide range of new releases and Adirondack literature, the store has an extensive supply of stationary/cards, notebooks and writing implements, picture framing, and fine art supplies. There is also a puppy, but Fern isn’t for sale.

The Book Nook, LLC, 7A Broadway, Saranac Lake will soon be celebrating its first anniversary this July. The smaller space is cozy with hand-hewn log shelves and a perfect Adirondack setting for browsing new books. Story times, author visits, and monthly book clubs are just a few of the events added to this downtown shop’s busy schedule.

I hope you are able to find the perfect book or gift during Independent Bookstore Day. At the very least, you will meet a human who will generously help you complete your errands. At the most, you will come to love the convenience of these indie bookstores. Enjoy!

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Diane Chase is the author of the Adirondack Family Activities guidebook series, Adirondack Family Time: Your Four-Season Guide to Over 300 Activities.” For more

family-friendly activities go to www.AdirondackFamily

Time.com.