CAPITOL HILL. The ambience, not to mention the coffee, is terrific at this much-loved bookstore / coffeehouse. Pull a book from the shelf, order a cappuccino (perhaps even a scone), and relax in the cool, bohemian environment. If you can grab a table outside, there are great views and great people watching to be had. Occasionally, Bauhaus sponsors live musical entertainment as well.

PIONEER SQUARE. More than a generation old, this venerable bookstore is a Seattle tradition. Exposed brick walls and wooden floors lend a note of permanence to the establishment, which offers thousands of books and texts. You'll find new volumes (especially fiction), along with rare and out-of-print books and a selection of used books as well. The shop also offers author events where the public may meet prominent writers or hear them read from their books. A downstairs coffee shop makes a great place to browse or simply rest your eyes for a moment.

UNIVERSITY DISTRICT. Recognized as one of the country's largest collegiate bookstores, this establishment makes available an astounding selection of books, magazines, office supplies, and art-related merchandise. You're guaranteed to find an elusive academic text, the perfect watercolor brush, or a hard-to-locate periodical. They will special order items not in stock ­ be it book, album, cassette, CD, or even computer software. They even offer free out-of-print book searches. Gift wrapping and shipping are also available.