By Allison Peck
A North Platte bookstore is part of a new statewide program encouraging Nebraskans to hit the road this summer in search of independent bookstores, local attractions and small-town experiences.
Nichols & Dimes in North Platte is among more than 20 bookstores participating in the inaugural Nebraska Book Trail, a summer-long program running from June 1 through Sept. 30.
Modeled after the popular Nebraska Passport program, the Nebraska Book Trail invites readers to travel across Nebraska collecting punches at participating bookstores while exploring communities throughout the state.
Participants can pick up a passport card at any participating bookstore and collect punches at each stop they visit. Every store visited earns an entry into a statewide prize drawing scheduled for October.
Organizers say the program is designed to support independent bookstores while also promoting tourism and travel throughout Nebraska.
“Independent bookstores are the heartbeat of our communities,” bookstore owner Danielle Helzer said. “This trail isn't just about finding your next great read; it’s about discovering the unique character of Nebraska’s towns, from the historic streets of Seward to the literary legacy of Red Cloud.”
Nichols & Dimes is one of the western Nebraska stops featured on the trail alongside bookstores in Grand Island and Hastings.
The program encourages travelers to pair bookstore visits with local attractions, restaurants, coffee shops and museums as they explore different regions of the state.
To participate, travelers can pick up a passport card at their first stop, visit participating stores throughout the summer and submit completed passports either online or at participating locations.
The Nebraska Book Trail received support through a grant from Visit Nebraska and aims to increase tourism and economic activity for communities across the state.
Additional information about participating bookstores and trail details can be found on the Nebraska Book Trail’s Facebook and Instagram pages or by emailing nebraskabooktrail@gmail.com.