As the Internet and e-readers increasingly threaten the very existence of books in physical form, there are some bookstores that are still able to inspire people to enter their doors to browse their collections the old-fashioned way, and maybe even stay awhile and read.

Here are ten of the most visually captivating bookstores that can be found around the world.

Selexyz Bookstore
The Selexyz Bookstore in Maastricht, Holland, was converted from a 13th century Dominican church. Merkx + Girod
Livraria Lello
The Livraria Lello in Porto, Portugal, features ornate wooden panels and a unique staircase. Panoramio
Cook Book
Cook & Book in Brussels, Belgium has a whimsical display of floating books. Cook & Book
El Ateneo
El Ateneo in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was converted from an old stage theater. The Book Vineyard
Kids Republic
Kid's Republic is an ultra-modern children's bookstore in Beijing, China. Beijing Poplar
Shakespeare Company
Shakespeare & Company, located in Paris, France, brings a cozy, study room feel to its store. johnrrogers.com
American Book Center
The American Book Center in Amsterdam, Holland, feels like a spacious club house with tree trunk columns rising up through the floor. American Book Center
Livraria da Vila
The Livraria Da Vila in Sao Paulo, Brazil, has floor-to-ceiling books with a bold, modern staircase. Livraria da Vila
Bookworm
Bookworm in Beijing, China, has a magical atmosphere with "floating candles" and a draped ceiling. Bookworm
Cafebreria El Pendulo
Cafebreria El Pendulo in Mexico City, Mexico, brings a little bit of nature indoors with vines and trees. Cafebreria El Pendulo
China Portugal China Portugal