Where ever you grew up sounds like a wonderful place. In my mind I'm constructing a sort of Twin Peaks[1] type town where I can take my newly acquired book to the good quality dinner.

I have a similar sort of relationship with bike shops. You can tell a good one straight away and it's nothing like a chain store.

My local one is in an ancient 4 story building with lots of back stairs and rooms. In the very top floor the owner keeps his own private collection, which if he's in the mood and you ask nicely he'll show you.

When you're a kid independent shops like that, book shops, computer shops, bike shops, are magic (and they're still pretty good as an adult).

1. Without the murders and other worldly shenanigans obviously.