It’s a great day to book a bookworm, as The Squirrel & Acorn bookshop has opened its doors in downtown State College. The shop soft opened on Thursday, September 15, according to owner Andrew Aschwanden.

The shop is located at 103 S. Allen Street in the former location of The Animal Kingdom. The Animal Kingdom didn’t renew its lease when it expired in June and has since merged with its sister store, Growing Tree Toys.

According to its website, The Squirrel & Acorn is “an independent bookshop where stories are discovered and created, voices heard and celebrated, and where imagination and a bit of whimsy are constant companions during your visit.”

The bookshop is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

“The bookshop aims to provide unique stories and great books, carrying various types of new books and writing tools,” according to a release from Downtown State College. “Furthermore, several reading corners inside encourage cozying up to a good book! Children’s books are also on hand and displayed in a quaint reading corner specifically designed for them.”

The inspiration for the shop’s name, “The Squirrel & Acorn,” comes from Aschwanden’s time in college when he was a biologist studying tree squirrels. They have always been fascinating to study, according to the owner.

Upon entry, dozens of national bestsellers are on display. The display appeals to all ages and interests, featuring “Verity” by Colleen Hoover, “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens, and “Love on the Brain” by Ali Hazelwood, among many others.

Floor-length window panels line the exterior wall, providing tons of natural light and a cozy feel. All other walls feature wooden bookshelves.

A couch and two chairs sit in the interior of the store, serving as an area for guests to browse through books.

In the far right corner sits the children’s book section and a small table for the littlest readers. A large piece of paper sits on the table, encouraging the little folks to “write or draw a story.” Several Halloween-related children’s books are on display.

Two large, wooden desks are placed in the stationary section, which sells planners, notebooks, field notes, ink, and more.

You can check out the bookshop’s website to see which texts are available and which books are coming soon.

The Squirrel & Acorn bookshop joins Allen Street Pizza as the latest business to open in downtown State College.