I have been known to make the drive from Seattle to Portland just to go to Powell's. Sure, you can order from the website but for pure browsing enjoyment nothing beats the real thing. Powell's is such a huge entity that you need a map just to maneuver your way through its various color coded sections. Besides books,Powell's also sells book reading accessories, cards, and the occasional left wing map. Powell's has other satellite locations scattered throughout the Portland area for those with specialized interests in tech or travel. There is also a café on site at the main Powell's to rest your feet after you spend hours rambling from section to section. The one problem with Powell's is that the selection sometimes carries a paucity of academic books. This is especially a problem in the political science section. Overall, this is a great bookstore for used and new books for every subject.
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