Although finding time to read while in college and surrounded by roommates may seem like an impossible task, you’d be surprised at how quickly you can finish a book cover to cover just by reading on the subway and taking a novel wherever you go. There really isn’t anything better than some quality reading material to brighten your day, and with The New York Public Library main branch featured in iconic works like Sex and the City, you can imagine yourself as any character you wish for just a fleeting moment as you walk up the grand steps. So make like a true New Yorker and get yourself a NYPL card – you’ll get to explore hidden gems around the city and feel like the fabulous girl-about-town in a movie scene. For inspiration, I’ve gathered my favorite stories and finds that are sure to please -all of which have been borrowed.
Everyday by David Levithan
When I first picked this up, I didn’t know I’d get so involved with the wise and fascinating story of what could happen when everyday is spent in a different life but all along in love with the same person. If you’re so inclined, there are four works in the series, which I couldn’t help but notice everywhere in the city’s bookstores.
Just One by Gayle Forman
The writing is so satisfying and sophisticated in this three-part trilogy made of Just One Day, Just One Year, and Just One Night that I was whisked away from the city that never sleeps to the city of love. In a volume made to not be put down, the timeline takes you from a day of happy accidents and fate in the streets of Paris intertwined with a relatable first year of college.
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han
Followed by P.S. I Still Love You, and Always and Forever, Lara Jean, I’m obviously not the only one that couldn’t get enough of Laura Jean and her family in this quirky and sweet tale. I checked out one after another and after spending so much time in the Covey household, I obviously had to revisit the Netflix film.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Catty dialogue excerpts, dynamic but seemingly perfect characters, and crime scene flashbacks build suspense all the way through this compelling novel about a quaint little beach town with secrets waiting to be spilled. A novel sure to be devoured; I looked forward to it in the quiet moments at the beginning and end of the day.
Paris for One and Other Stories by Jojo Moyes
Libraries are what started my wonderful relationship with JoJo Moyes and her works – reading Me Before You, After You, and Still Me during winter breaks. Now that I’ve said goodbye to Louisa Clark, I turn to this charming collection of short stories for an escape during my busy days to make the ordinary moments extraordinary.
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
With a gold-detailed cover for the 150th anniversary, this is my latest and greatest treasure. I
stumbled upon it just in time to prepare for the well-anticipated Greta Gerwig film this Christmas. Having never read it, I’m already enticed by the language and sense of longing for adventure within this historically significant story.
Magazines!
No subscription? No problem. To my delight, I happened to find the latest issue of InStyle waiting for me at the front desk the last time I walked into the library. I scooped up pretty covers and titles I wouldn’t otherwise flip through just for something fun and different to take with me before catching the train to school.
Besides making a nightstand look pretty and a little more like home, collecting books and taking time to read just might be the little piece of inspiration and relaxation you’ve been missing. From fashion spreads to stories that are soon-to-be films, reading connects you to the world around you and simultaneously world’s apart in ways nothing else can. And because books are lovely to have on rotation for quick trips home or commuting to your internship in the city, whether you prefer to search for surprises, or love the satisfaction of getting every title on your list, make having a library card as essential as your MetroCard. Did I mention that it’ll cost you nothing? Yeah, I love New York too.