Travel—Not Only in the “Travel Section”

Normally if we are looking for travel guides, we go to the Dewey numbers 910-919, the home of Fodor’s, Michelin, Lonely Planet, etc.  There is where we would also find narratives on a particular place, or the journey there, like works from Bill Bryson and Paul Theroux.  But that is not the only place in the library to find inspiration to travel, armchair or actual.  

For example, in 796.51 you will find hiking guides, such as Outdoor Adventures’ Acadia National Park and Walking on the Amalfi Coast.  How about taking in some architecture or a museum?  They are in the early 700s, places like Louis I. Kahn's Trenton Jewish Community Center and The Metropolitan Museum of Art Guide. 

The History section (930+) has plenty to investigate.  Perusing books on ancient Egypt (932) might lead you to book a trip (if so, then do not forget the guidebooks in 916.2).  Peter Genovese’s New Jersey Curiosities (974.9 NEW) can send you to the four corners of the great Garden State.    

Science (the 500s) leads us to travel, too.  On your next drive, bring along a book from the “Roadside Geology” series.  If that is too dry for you, then check out 200 Waterfalls in Central & Western New York: A Finder’s Guide by Rich & Sue Freeman.  While you are out enjoying nature, do not forget a field guide or two, such as The Sibley Field Guide to Birds, or Peterson’s on Eastern Forests. 

But travel is not just about sights, there are tastes and smells, too.  How better to explore that than cooking?  Try The Food of Taiwan (also on hoopla) or Peru:  The Cookbook by Gastón Acurio, and fill your space with the smells and flavors of far-off places.  The grocery bill will be much less than any plane tickets!

Planning a frequent rite of passage, aspiring college students and their families can use the various college guides such as the latest from Fiske and The Princeton Review to create a road trip or tour of potential campuses. 

The Mercer County Library System also owns DVDs of travel programs (check your local branch for shelf locations).  Journey along with well-known hosts like Rick Steves and Rudy Maxa.  Enjoy a well-rounded but less personality-driven experience with shows like Questar’s Discovering Italy.  Coming full circle (as most travels do) with those guidebook needs, do not forget to check the Library System’s electronic offerings on hoopla and eLibraryNJ. 

- Dennis B., West Windsor Branch

Photos:

Hiker - courtesy of Krivec Ales

Food - courtesy of Dana Tentis