As I’ve been settling into my new home in central Jersey, near the beach, many family memories have been floating into my mind. One fond one I have is an image of my mom cozied up in a beach chair, with a towel as a blanket. She is happily devouring a paperback novel, with her toes wiggling in the sand.
To this day, when I pick up an old paperback book, the smell of the pages reminds me of those summers at the beach with my family. So, it’s no wonder that, when I recently came across Paper Exchange in Belmar, NJ, I was instantly taken back to my childhood. This adorable shop—tucked into a little plaza in this shore community—not only sells used books at a healthy discount, but it also allows customers to trade in their used books for store credit.
If you’re a book worm like me, then just walking into this place will bring a smile to your face. The owner, Sharon, is ready with an inviting face and a helping hand. She knows the store like the back of her hand and can easily help you find a book if she has it. From YA novels and children’s books, to classics, thrillers and chick lit, this floor-to-ceiling collection has it all!
So, if you’re planning on hitting the Jersey Shore this summer, then make sure you add a visit to this spot to your list of things to bring to the beach:
- Sunscreen (check!)
- Chair & umbrella (check!)
- Snacks (check!)
- An fun read from Paperback Exchange…(check!)
Take my word for it: leave the iPad at home and take it back to the old school with an actual book 🙂 Plus, it can’t hurt to support a local store that has been in the community since the ’80s!
Happy summer reading!
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