Itching for a closer look at Powell's City of Books? Perhaps Powell's is on your school's list of downtown destinations for an upcoming field trip? Whether you're on your own or visiting with a large group, we offer guided tours to suit your needs.

Large Group Tours are conducted by reservation only. We're happy to accommodate large groups, but please remember: if you plan to bring a large group (10 people or more), or if you are a teacher planning to bring your students, please call the master of tours, Bruce A. Burkhardt at 503-228-4651 x436 or email bruce.burkhardt@powells.com to reserve a tour time. We appreciate the opportunity to discuss our guidelines and expectations in order to ensure a great visit.

Please reserve a tour time at least two weeks in advance of the date you wish to visit. We'll need the following information when you call:

• A contact's name and phone number
• The school or group's name and address
• The date and time you wish to reserve
• Age or grade level of the participants
• The number of people in your group

Note that Powell's requires one adult for every ten participants under eighteen years of age.

Large group tours can cater to general interests, but alternately, we're happy to accommodate your particular areas of curiosity. Examples of more focused tours include a behind the scenes tour highlighting store functions or an in-depth tour of a particular Powell's section or room. The Rare Book Room is not part of our regularly scheduled tours. Also, World Cup Coffee and Tea cannot accommodate especially large groups.

For the safest/easiest loading and unloading of large groups (i.e. buses), we suggest using the 11th and Couch entry. The 10th and Burnside entry is also an option if you are walking from the downtown area. Our walking map will offer a detailed street map of the area. Your group leader should enter the store first and ask any employee for the "Manager-on-Duty," who will connect you with your tour guide. The general tour lasts about 45 minutes and takes you through all 9 rooms! You will not only learn how to shop our unique new and used bookstore but also learn some of the history and special attractions found throughout the store.

We look forward to seeing you in the City of Books!