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Cozy retreats for little readers Keb, 3, of New Paltz, plays in the charming children's nook at Inquiring Minds in New Paltz. The best kid-friendly bookstores in the Hudson Valley By SARAH COPPOLA A fter years of nightly story times, frequent library visits, and carefully chosen books to encourage interest, the effort has paid off. I am happy to say that I have two enthusiastic little book lovers in my home. Seeing my daughters' faces glow with excitement when walking into a bookshop makes my heart melt every time. In their eyes, all the books lining the shelves are countless adventures waiting to be discovered. During our visits together, we explore, we read and we get inspired. If you haven't checked out a bookstore with your kids in a while, it's time to add it to your must-do list. There are a number of child-friendly bookstores in the Hudson Valley that provide great adult book selections in addition to their children's offerings, so everyone in the family can enjoy their visit. Here's a rundown of some of our local bookstores along with what they provide for their youngest patrons: If you haven't checked out a bookstore with your kids in a while, it's time to add it to your must-do list. Oblong Books and Music 6422 Montgomery St., Rhinebeck 26 Main St., Millerton oblongbooks.com Each of the two Oblong locations boasts a bright and cheery children's section dubbed "Oblong, Junior." In addition to a wide selection of children's books, they also sell a variety of unique and educational toys and gifts that you won't find in mainstream stores. Regarding the selection of kids' products, owner Dick Hermans is proud of his motto: "If you saw it advertised on TV, you won't find it here." Oblong also hosts a number of chil- dren's events as well as the successful Hudson Valley YA Society, a monthly author event series for young adults. The Golden Notebook 29 Tinker St., Woodstock goldennotebook.com This charming bookshop offers a welcoming children's nook and friendly, helpful staff who clearly have a soft spot in their heart for kids. (Continued on Page 28) Oblong Books and Music has two locations in the Hudson Valley, both of which boast a bright and cheery children's section dubbed "Oblong, Junior." hvparent.com n Hudson Valley Parent 27