It's not called a "city of books" for nothing. The main store (there are five or more at present, most of them satellite stores) is located on Burnside, housed in an old warehouse. Three solid floors, taking up a -full- city block, with nothing but shelf after shelf of new and used books positioned side-by-side. Prices are great, and they do take trade-ins for cash, if you're looking to unload.

The literature for the store says, only partly tongue in cheek, that if you're stopping in for the first time, it's advisable to pack a lunch. It's easy to get lost in the stacks and not realize that you've missed the meals for the day -- and it's true. Hours pass like minutes while your arms start to ache with the loads of books you didn't really intend to buy, for much less money than you thought you'd have to spend.

There is an online version of the store at http://www.powells.com, though it has none of the charm of the actual location.

Powell's is definitely one not to miss. Your inner bibliophile will thank you.

Browse through the large selection of reading material and marvel at the largest bookstore in the entire country. You're trip can be cheap too. Not only do they sell the brand-spankin' new latest copies of your favorite authors, but they sell used books too at about half the price. That means, we who are on a budget can save some cash.

Powell's is a good place to meet people too. Quietly browse in your favorite section and chat with those who have the same interests. Order a mocha-cappuccino at their coffee bar and settle into a conversation with a local or a traveler like yourself.

I found plenty of postcards to send to friends. While I was away from home, I felt right at home while filling them out in their cafe. There's something about band posters and scruffy looking college kids to bring you back to the real world.