Although the internet and apps like Spotify can bring an unlimited amount of music to college students everywhere, collecting vinyl records has increasingly become a hobby for many. For Elizabethtown College students searching for their next hidden gem, there are several record stores in the area with vast collections of vinyl records, both old and new.
In recent weeks, a new record store has begun moving into Elizabethtown itself, near the popular thrift store, Frugal Finds. New signs advertising the Elizabethtown Record Lounge have been posted in front of the building, although the business is not officially open to the public yet. Hopes are high, however, for a local record store within walking distance of the College which students will be able to investigate soon. However, in the meantime, there are still plenty of other options within driving distance for students eager to get their next record haul.
K.T. Media in Middletown, Pa. is my go-to option for a local record store. It has the perfect ambiance—it’s packed with old and new vinyl records, CDs, sound systems and merchandise. There’s always great music playing, staff are friendly and fellow collectors can be found hunting the stacks for their own next find. In terms of pricing, newer albums tend to be more expensive, but secondhand albums can be much cheaper—it all depends on age, record quality and popularity of the album. While the small shop is packed with music of all types, it’s well organized by artist and genre.
One of the best things about record shopping is that even if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for, it’s likely you’ll find something to get your attention. In my experience, this holds true for K.T. Media. I’ve always been able to find albums which catch my eye, from favorite artists to unfamiliar ones. There’s always plenty to discover—I normally have to set a budget for myself, even though it’s tempting to buy everything I find interesting. K.T Media is well worth the short drive, both for its atmosphere and inventory, and could be a great weekend activity.
Another record store worth a shout out is Mr. Suit Records in Lancaster, Pa. Admittedly, this author hasn’t visited in person yet but is planning to soon after seeing many positive reviews. Unfortunately, however, this record store is closing soon; after 15 years, Mr. Suit Records will be closed for good at the end of the year. So, if you’re interested in visiting, now is the time! With glowing reviews detailing fair prices and a wide range of genres, it’s likely any collector will be able to find something to suit their tastes. However, since the owner plans to sell existing inventory before shutting down for good, planning a trip sooner rather than later will improve your chances at finding a hidden gem or favorite album.
With several options only a short drive—or soon, a walk—away, students looking to explore new genres are sure to find something among the stacks at these local record stores. As the semester reaches its last few weeks and classes get increasingly stressful, a visit to one of these businesses may be a great way to relax, have fun and find some new study music.
