Los Angeles is a city that loves books. From small, independent shops to large corporate retailers, there are countless options for book lovers to explore.
With the rise of online shopping, bookstores have had to adapt and find new ways to attract customers. The best bookstores in Los Angeles have not only survived but thrived in this changing landscape.
What makes a great bookstore? Is it the size of the store or the selection of books? Is it the ambiance or the staff's knowledge? The best bookstores are a combination of all of these factors and more.
They offer a unique experience that cannot be replicated by online shopping. Walking through the aisles, browsing the shelves, and discovering new titles is a sensory experience that simply cannot be matched by clicking through a website.
Los Angeles is a diverse city, and its bookstores reflect that diversity. From stores that specialize in rare and collectible books to shops that focus on niche genres, there is something for every reader. And let's not forget the importance of community. The best bookstores in Los Angeles are more than just places to buy books.
They are gathering spots where people come together to discuss literature, attend book clubs, and hear from their favorite authors. These bookstores are cultural hubs that connect people and ideas. In this post, we will explore some of the best bookstores in Los Angeles and what makes them so special.
1. The Last Bookstore
The Last Bookstore is a unique and artsy bookstore that offers a vast collection of books and records. The multilevel space is adorned with local art and offers a fun and airy atmosphere to browse and shop.
Visitors can buy, sell, or trade books, and there is a gift shop with vintage items and fun art souvenirs.
The layout of the store is perfect for taking beautiful pictures, and there are many areas to sit and enjoy a book.
The Last Bookstore is a must-visit for anyone who loves books and records, and wants a unique and fun shopping experience.
2. Kinokuniya Los Angeles
Kinokuniya Los Angeles is a Japanese-based bookstore with a large selection of Asian books, magazines, DVDs, and stationery.
The store has a great variety of books available in English and Japanese, including art books and manga volumes. The staff is quick, professional, and kind.
The store is well-stocked and usually has whatever manga or art book one may be looking for. The rewards program is also a plus, with a $10 gift card given for every $300 spent.
The atmosphere is great, making it a wonderful place to visit regardless of whether one plans to make a purchase or not.
3. Reparations Club
Reparations Club is a must-visit for book lovers.
With a well-curated selection of African-American literature, both fiction and non-fiction, this bookstore is a haven for those seeking to expand their reading horizons.
The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere that invites customers to stay and browse for hours.
In addition to books, Reparations Club also offers unique gifts and products from local creatives. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this bookstore is worth a visit.
4. Libreria San Pablo
Libreria San Pablo is a fantastic bookstore for those seeking religious items, particularly those of the Catholic faith.
The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and always willing to help customers find what they need. The store has a wide selection of books and other religious items, all at reasonable prices.
The peaceful atmosphere inside the store adds to the overall experience, making it a great place to visit for those looking to grow in their spirituality.
If you're in the area, be sure to stop by Libreria San Pablo for all your Catholic supply needs.
5. Children's Book World
Children's Book World is a hidden gem of a bookstore, specializing in children's literature. The store boasts an impressive collection of books, movies, and audio books, with thousands of titles in stock.
The staff are knowledgeable and helpful, always willing to help customers find the perfect book for their child or classroom.
The store frequently invites authors to share their work, making it a great spot for book lovers of all ages. The cozy atmosphere of the store, complete with pleasant music, adds to the overall experience.
If you're looking for a great bookstore for kids, parents, or teachers, Children's Book World is definitely worth checking out.
6. Skylight Books
Skylight Books is an indie bookstore that offers a wide variety of titles. From culture and social issues to indie graphic novels, this bookstore has something for everyone.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, providing great recommendations and new discoveries. They also have a good selection of LA-centric titles, poetry, and children's books.
Skylight Books frequently hosts author appearances and launch events, making it a great spot for book lovers.
The adjacent comic book, zine, and magazine store is a bonus for those looking for something unique. If you're in the area, make sure to check out Skylight Books for a cozy and eclectic bookstore experience.
7. Sideshow Books
Sideshow Books is a hidden gem for book lovers. The store is filled to the brim with books, from floor to ceiling, creating a charming atmosphere.
The owner is friendly and knowledgeable, offering great customer service. The store has a great selection of old and new books, with a focus on Hollywood biographies and books that were turned into movies.
Prices are reasonable, making it a great spot to spend a few hours browsing and discovering new reads.
The store also has a great collection of collectibles and rare books. If you're in the area, be sure to check out Sideshow Books.
8. The Book Jewel
The Book Jewel is a beautiful and welcoming bookstore. Despite its small size, it boasts an impressive selection of books, including local talent.
The store is well-organized, making it easy to find what you're looking for.
The staff and owner are friendly and knowledgeable. The Book Jewel also hosts book signings and other events, creating a lively atmosphere.
Whether you're browsing for yourself or looking for a gift, The Book Jewel is definitely worth a visit.
9. Malik Books
Malik Books is a must-visit bookstore for those who love to read about the Black experience.
The store has a great selection of books that celebrate and reflect the Black culture. It's a small store but is bursting with a thoughtful curation of books that cater to all ages.
The store also offers mail-order services for those who cannot visit the physical location. The staff is friendly and provides excellent service to customers.
Malik Books is a great place to support a locally-owned, independent, and Black family-owned business. It's a gem that book lovers should not miss.
10. Hennessey + Ingalls
Hennessey + Ingalls is a beautiful bookstore that specializes in art, architecture, and design books.
The store has an incredible collection of monographs and books that will fascinate anyone interested in these subjects. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to guide and direct customers if needed.
The store is well-organized and easy to navigate, making it a pleasure to shop there.
With its great service and incredible selection, Hennessey + Ingalls is a must-visit for anyone looking for printed publications on art, architecture, and design.
11. Word of Life Christian Bookstore
Word of Life Christian Bookstore is a must-visit for anyone looking for Christian books, bibles, church supplies, and gifts.
The store is well-organized, making it easy to find what you need. The staff is friendly, courteous, and knowledgeable about their products.
They offer a wide variety of materials at competitive prices, making it an excellent place to shop for both personal and gift purposes.
Though the store could use some updating, it is clean and provides a pleasant environment to browse. If you're looking for a Christian bookstore, Word of Life Christian Bookstore is definitely worth checking out.
12. Now Serving
Now Serving is a charming bookstore that specializes in cookbooks and culinary literature. They offer a vast selection of new and used books, magazines, and journals that cater to food enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The owners are knowledgeable and friendly, always eager to recommend books and help customers find what they are looking for.
They also host author events and book sales, making it a go-to destination for book lovers and culinary enthusiasts.
Whether you are a seasoned chef or a home cook, Now Serving is a must-visit for all your culinary needs.
13. Des Pair Books
Des Pair Books is a small bookstore with a big heart. Despite its size, it boasts an impressive selection of books that will delight any book lover.
The store is well-organized, making it easy to find what you're looking for.
The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, always ready to offer recommendations or help you track down a hard-to-find title.
If you're looking for a cozy spot to curl up with a good book, Des Pair Books is the perfect place to do it.
