Anyone old enough to appreciate a wonderful story will love a visit to the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, located just over an hour's drive from Harvard in the beautiful Pioneer Valley. Classic children's stories from around the world come to life in image, book, music, and performance in the museum's many venues, which include three dedicated picture galleries, a light-filled art studio, a reading library, and an auditorium.

125 West Bay Road Amherst, MA Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday 12 to 5 p.m. www.carlemuseum.org

Favorite images from childhood come to life at the museum, said marketing manager Sandy Soderberg, whether in quiet contemplation in the galleries or a performance of puppets on stage. The best children's literature in the world comes home to the Carle in one of the most accessible collections of picture books in the world, Soderberg added. "We want children to feel 'All my friends are here.'"

Opened in 2002 on the campus of Hampshire College, the museum is the creative vision of beloved children's book author Eric Carle and his wife, Barbara. The author and illustrator of more than 70 books, including the iconic The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Carle wanted to create a space to celebrate illustration as a higher art, as well as help visitors of all ages connect with the joy of creativity. In a single day, a museum visitor can view original illustrations at a child-friendly height, create a picture book in the art studio, take in a dance performance, and picnic in the shade of the apple orchard.

Inside the museum, staff members are warm, friendly, and dedicated to helping visitors discover the magic within the 40,000 square feet of spacious and light-filled rooms. Three different galleries offer an intimate look at an international collection of illustrations, including a gallery dedicated to changing exhibits of Carle's work. "The Art of Eric Carle: Family and Friends" is currently on exhibit in the West Gallery through September. At the time of this reporter's visit, the other two galleries offered a show of work by Swiss artist Etienne Delessert ("What a Circus!") and the beautiful, haunting illustrations of Caldecott award-winning artist Jane Yolen.

A schedule of future exhibitions at the museum represents the finest authors and illustrators of children's literature, with many winners of the Caldecott medal and the Hans Christian Anderson award among them. While geared toward a younger audience, the Carle's sophisticated architecture and the high quality of work on display will be appreciated by adults, along with the chance to reconnect with a favorite childhood story.

After time in the galleries, visitors will be inspired to create their own picture books in the art studio. Open tables supplied with paper, glue, and other art materials allow artists of all ages to create much like Carle himself, perhaps even learning the now-famous technique of tissue-paper collage. This technique, which renders simple, yet vivid shapes, is featured in such Carle classics as The Grouchy Ladybug and The Tiny Seed. Those who want to take their skills a step further can also enroll in specialized workshops the museum offers to people with a range of ages and interests, including courses in painting, drawing, printmaking, and sculpture.

The reading experience is an important part of a visit to the Carle, of course, and opportunities abound to slip away for some quiet time and a picture book. From the "caterpillar cubby" nestled in the lobby to the cozy reading library, there are any number of opportunities to fit in a tale or two. Those who would like to take a story home will enjoy a tour of the gift shop, which includes a well-curated selection of picture books and small gift items, like stuffed animals and party favors. All items are high quality, but fairly priced, making the shop a great place to find a souvenir or a children's party gift. When the time comes for a snack, the cheerful Carle Café offers visitors a choice of fresh sandwiches, fruit, and assorted beverages. Alternatively, visitors can find picnic fare nearby at the Atkins Farms Country Market, and enjoy lunch outside in the orchard.

For directions, opening hours and admission to the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, visit carlemuseum.org. Additional information on programs, events, and courses of study at the museum is also available there.