Musty Books

We visited the Benson Arizona Visitor Center today. What a way to learn about the area! The volunteers are always so nice and helpful and the brochures are plentiful. Doug was interested in places to get more information about his rockhounding. And I was finding everything I wanted to know about the tourist traps. (I love 'em!)

After leaving the visitor center, we headed for a rock shop in town. It was just a small place and 90% of their rocks and minerals were from Mexico. We enjoyed looking at the various displays, but Doug was looking for books to help identify the rocks that he has collected and the lady had none available.

Doug remembered seeing a rock shop in St David which is only about six miles away. So, off we went. But before we could barely get out of Benson, we passed another small shop. Pulling a u-turn, we went back to check it out. This one was much larger and well stocked. The owner, Lars, was quite knowledgeable and friendly. He had lots of advice and hints, but no books. However, he recommended a used book store in Benson where he quite often picked up books on geology and rock collecting.

Back we went to Benson where we found the Musty Books store. I thought I had died and gone to heaven. It's not a large shop, but there were books everywhere! Some were on shelves, in boxes, stacked in piles here and there and you never knew what you might find. The owner directed Doug to the back where most of the reference and geology books were and I just wandered and browsed to my heart's content. Doug found several books that he wanted and a map that shows areas to find gems, minerals and gold. Score!!!

We returned to the coach to finish some chores and enjoy the sunshine. We both spent the evening with our noses in books. Doug, dreaming of finding riches and me just dreaming. Rough life!