This Montana Literary Road Trip Leads To 6 Incredible Bookstores And Libraries

I love the feel of paper in my hands and actually turning the page when I read a book. In an era when there is almost nothing we can’t receive instantly on a screen, I find that opening a book is like a little luxury and a way to back out of the digital world and slow down. Are you a fellow book lover? Let’s take a little road trip to discover a few of Montana’s wonderful treasure troves of the written word. To give you time to wander and browse (as all true book lovers must do,) I have laid this out as a two-day road trip, perfect for a quick weekend getaway.

The trip covers about 375 miles and requires just over six hours of actual driving. I’ve included a comfy place to stay the night and a couple of great places to grab a bite along the way but click on the map to customize your trip, add or remove stops, etc.

Book destination number one is the Missoula Public Library in downtown Missoula. In 2022, it was named Public Library of the Year in a worldwide competition by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions. Even before you enter, this building’s stunning contemporary architecture makes it stand out. Inside, four floors contain a massive collection of books and media, as well as comfy seating areas and beautiful views through the large windows. It even has a luxurious rooftop lounge!

Our second stop is just up the street, a local bookshop with an ornate facade and a loyal local following, Fact & Fiction. With a wide selection and a focus on specialty and out-of-print literature, this two-story shop offers the space and resources of bigger chain stores but with the character of small independents.

After a morning of browsing bookshelves, grab a coffee, lunch, or maybe a few road trip snacks at Market on Front before heading out on the road to our next stop. We’re off to Helena!

Aunt Bonnie’s Books is Helena’s oldest bookstore. Its charming brick storefront draws you in, and its huge collection of new and used books invites you to stay and browse. You’ll find books on nearly any subject you’re interested in, including a specific Native American section. The shop has frequent half-off sales, so you are very likely to find some great bargains (find out what the latest deal is on the shop’s Facebook page!) Aunt Bonnie’s is also a gift shop with a wide selection of cards, trinkets, imported items, and more. You can easily spend the rest of the day perusing.

Relax for the evening with a delicious dinner at The Union, located in a historic pub downtown, then check into a cozy room at Helena’s incredibly charming bed and breakfast, The Sanders. A gourmet breakfast is included in the morning to fuel you up for another day of bookshop adventures. When you’re ready, grab the keys and make your way to Bozeman.

Established in 1957, the women-led Country Bookshelf has developed a reputation as one of the best bookstores, not only in Bozeman but in the entire state. Founded in 1957, this is the largest Indie bookstore in Montana. It is known for its hand-picked collection of volumes, including a wonderfully eclectic selection of specialty and out-of-print books you may not find elsewhere. Whether you’re looking for something specific or hoping to stumble on something unexpected that you simply must have, the friendly, knowledgeable staff is ready and able to help. 

Next, we are headed to the town of Livingston, a charming haven for bibliophiles, to visit its largest bookstore, Elk River Books. This antiquarian bookstore specializes in “rare and collectible outdoor literature, including Native American and Western history, adventure and exploration, sporting books, natural history, works by the Montana Gang, poetry, and literary archives.” You’ll also discover children’s literature, regional authors, arts and science, etc., at Elk River Books.

Before taking a drive to our next — and last — stop, head to Gil’s Goods (about three blocks from Elk River Books) for a grass-fed burger, a wood-fired pizza, or any of their other delicious offerings.

Our last destination is the stately Carnegie Library in Lewistown. This beautiful building combines history, stunning architecture, and learning. Opened to the public in 1908, the structure itself was built with local sandstone by Lewistown’s renowned Croatian stonemasons. The library offers computer access to everyone and over 40,000 catalog items, including newspapers, magazines, and historical photos of the area from the 1880s through the 1920s. Bringing together the old and the new, this library is both a civic monument and a wonderful community resource.

And that's it — a two-day tour full of books! Have you been to any of these delightful bookstores and libraries in Montana? If you know someone who loves books as much as we do, share this article with them! And, for more road trip inspiration, check out this list of some of our favorite Montana road trip ideas.