Today is National Read Across America Day. The day was established by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1998 to help get kids excited about reading.
The objective of National Read Across America Day is to have students, teachers, parents, and community members around the nation come together to read books and celebrate the joy of reading.
In these strange times, however, the most simple and significant of activities seems to bring its own difficulties.
We thought it was important for us to remember that just as everyone else, most bookstores are going through a hard time, but yes they are hanging in there as they always have.
So why not celebrate our local bookstores in such a significant day for our kids. Today is a good day to get your kids out of the house and show them the importance of reading, or order a book and stay in. They just might have the time of their lives.
(some might have strict hours and some might only be accepting online orders, please make sure to check ahead of time)
Without further ado these are our favorite local bookstores in the DMV Area:
Hooray for Books
This Old Town Alexandria shop specializes in kids books but also offers a full section for grown-ups. Littles will love the twice-a-week story times, frequent children's author visits, and fun special events throughout the month. The store also sells toys and gifts.
@hoorayforbooks
1555 King St. Alexandria, VA
Kensington Row Bookshop
Two floors of quality used, new, and unusual books. They also carry posters, cards, ephemera, journals, and a variety of vintage and new items. Definitely a great spot to find rare and novel books. Don’t take our word for it, check out all their amazing reviews on google.
@kensingtonrowbookshop
3786 Howard Ave, Kensington Md
Kramers
Kramers is an independent bookstore, restaurant, bar, and event space in the heart of Dupont Circle. The store offers a superb collection of books for children, including board books, picture books and one of the best selections for kids.
@kramerbooks
1517 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
Politics and Prose Bookstore
Typically a hangout for Washington’s intellectual crowd, they also have an amazing kids' book section. The staff publishes a roundup of favorite books on their website with a list of current books that should be on your family’s radar.
@politicsprose
5015 Connecticut Avenue NW. Washington, D.C. 20008
The Maryland Book Bank
Though not a store per se, we think the book bank needs to be mentioned and recognized for their amazing work. All the titles at the Maryland Book Bank are free! It is a nonprofit organization that distributes more than 150,000 books to children, teachers, schools and organizations throughout the year. Of course, donations (of books or money) are always appreciated.
@mdbookbank
1794 Union Avenue, Baltimore MD 21211
Loyalty Bookstore
Located in the Petworth and Silver Springs neighborhoods. The children’s collection includes quirky picture books, baby proof board books and young adult fiction.
@loyaltybooks
843 Upshur Street NW, Washington, DC 20011
823 Ellsworth Dr, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Kinder Haus Toys
Nicknamed “Wonderland” by its customers, this family-owned store in Arlington sells kids’ clothing, gear and toys, but also showcases a wide selection of books.
@kinderhaustoys
1220 N Fillmore St Arlington, VA 22201
Honorable Mention
Noyes Library
Though not quite a bookstore, if we are talking reading and children in Maryland we have to mention Noyes and their amazing work. Noyes is the oldest public library in the Washington, DC area, and one of only a few public libraries in the U.S. dedicated to children.
(temporarily closed , check out their website for more info)
10237 Carroll Pl, Kensington, MD 20895
That's it folks, hope everyone has a great week and remember, if you or someone you know need any help buying or selling a home, feel fee to get in touch. Ah! And don't forget to follow us on instagram: