We’re continuing our break from regular posts to highlight attractions in our area that we have enjoyed with our families.

If you have a location you would like to highlight or share for our mini-series, we’d love to hear from you! Please reach out at unexpected.ever.afters@gmail.com to inquire into including your recommendation on the Unexpected Ever Afters blog.

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We are on our final two posts of our “Destination Shoutout” mini-series. I couldn’t end the series without highlighting one of my favorite places: The library.

In a previous post, For the Love of Libraries, I wrote about a personal goal: to visit the local library wherever I travel. I have enjoyed making this goal a reality and have had the opportunity to visit amazing, varied libraries across the United States (Several in large cities like Chicago and Boston. And, some in smaller towns, like a personal favorite, Easton, MA ). I love sitting in a reading room or writing at a table tucked between shelves packed with books.  I think about all the creative people who have contributed to our libraries and the ideas that have taken form while sitting in the same places. The library often ends up being one of my favorite vacation destinations whenever I travel. So, in my final destination shoutout post, I wanted to encourage you to also explore the local libraries on your travels and give you a feel for what to expect if you visit the library in Fargo, North Dakota.

The Fargo Public Library system offers three locations and this post will feature the main location, which is located in vibrant downtown Fargo, blocks away from boutique shopping, local restaurants, and art attractions. 

There are two free parking options, a small parking lot on the west side of the library and a larger parking lot on the east side. There is also a nearby parking garage which charges $3 an hour (up to $8 a day). 

This particular library is full of spaces designed for readers of all ages. The main floor houses a large children’s section, with books for infants through pre-teens. A reading child statue invites young readers into a small room with comfortable, flexible seating. And, for the youngest library visitors, a wiggle room provides toys and a welcoming space to play.

The upstairs floor is filled with shelves of books as well as magazine and newspaper sections and two rooms filled with computers and printers. A large help desk is situated in the center, where  librarians connect readers with books, troubleshoot computer issues, and support visitors with needed resources.  Sprinkled throughout are reading nooks situated by beautiful, large windows overlooking the downtown. And, hidden in a far corner, there is a cozy lounge space complete with a fireplace, plants, and comfortable chairs. 

Throughout the library are hidden gems; artwork is displayed throughout and Harry Potter has a nook under the stairs where the featured quote on a main wall that always brings a smile to my face, “When in doubt, go to the library.” I couldn’t have said it better myself. 

If you aren’t local to the Fargo area, but you would still like to leave with a book or a souvenir, there’s a “Friends of the Fargo Public Library” bookstore located near the check out desk on the main floor. Friendly volunteers help ensure you find something you enjoy and all proceeds support the library. 

Whether you are exploring Fargo or visiting another vacation destination, I encourage you to check out the local library. Bring a journal or a book and spend a few minutes connecting to a place where so many other learners, explorers, readers, and writers have been. 

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In addition to visiting the library, independent bookstores are another favorite destination! I could not end a post about my love of books without giving a shout out to some of my favorite, local, independent bookstores:

• Of course, the previously mentioned Friends of the Fargo Public Library
• More than Words
• Fergie’s Bookshops
• Words to Live By

Jessica is a wife, mom, social worker, and writer.  She is co-author of the blog The Unexpected Ever Afters.