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11/1/2008 - 10 Best Places to read a book in Redlands10 Best Places to read a book in Redlands by Karen Bergman The Smiley Brothers must have loved a good book and an inviting place to read because they made establishing a beautiful public library one of their first priorities for the new city of Redlands. There are many other places in our town that also beg the reader to sit and enjoy a few pages or chapters as well. Here are some favorite haunts of today’s book reading residents. 1. BROOKSIDE PARK A lush lawn invites book lovers to spread a blanket under one of the scattered shade trees for a lazy afternoon. 2. SYLVAN PARK Enjoy your newest adventure story or biography in Redlands’ grand park amid tall trees and lots of community activity. 3. UNIVERSITY OF REDLANDS QUAD It’s a quick walk for students and a delight for those who love wide-open spaces with mature shade trees. 4. REDLANDS’ FINE COFFEE SHOPS Coffee and reading are a natural pairing. Discover some of Redlands’ most stimulating locations with a cup of steaming brew in one hand and a book in the other, and perhaps some friends to share in a discussion. 5. ONE OF OUR OWN BOOKSTORES Many people like to read between the stacks as they make their choice to add to their home libraries. Have you checked out the Frugal Frigate? Their staircase loft and other interesting nooks make for a cozy read before your purchase. 6. SMILEY LIBRARY The open Scott Conservatory is a favorite for the magazine and newspaper devotee, or you might choose to join the kids sitting cross-legged on the rug in the Children’s Room. Check with the Library for opportunities to share in reading-out-loud sessions. 7. SMILEY LIBRARY GARDENS Enjoy the topiary greenery and fruit trees as you peruse a few pages on one of the benches in either section of this peaceful environment. 8. LINCOLN SHRINE Soak in the tranquil setting and the inspiring quotes near the fountains in front of the Lincoln Shrine as you delve into a historical novel or, perhaps, Sandburg’s biography on the President. 9. YOUR OWN HOME There is no place like home for many Redlands residents. Snuggled in their favorite chair is the only place they would consider for an afternoon of reading, rain or shine. 10. PROSPECT PARK Amid the wide-ranging options and soft sounds of this natural setting may be the best place to enjoy a book in Redlands. Some enjoy the lawn or benches near the Carriage House with the surrounding roses, berry bushes, and glossy Lily of the Nile. Others seek the quiet coolness of the arbor that connects the Carriage House area to the Prospect Park Theater. Travel a little farther down the road to discover benches offering two different viewpoints, one shaded and one open to the sun and breezes. From these vantage points, the reader has a magnificent view of our valley, the surrounding mountains, the stately Victorian era homes of Highland Avenue, and a healthy grove of orange trees.
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