Los Angeles may be known for its movies, but the city is also a great bookstore town. From landmark downtown stores to cozy valley shops, LA is dotted with unique booksellers. Here is an incomplete list of some current favorites. (Which will continue to be updated with more favorites. You can never have too many favorite bookstores.)
Bart’s Books, Ojai
Some may say that Ojai isn’t exactly “LA area,” but Bart’s Books is too unique to leave off the list. Ojai is a small town located about an hour north of Los Angeles, nestled among the Topatopa Mountains near Lake Casitas. It’s known for its art galleries, funky shops, wine tasting, classic California architecture, and picturesque setting. Another famous draw is Bart’s Books.
The bookstore is known as the world’s largest outdoor bookstore. It is partially indoors, while most of its stock is shelved outside. As you approach the store, vine covered walls and holding classic books welcome you into the shop. The store holds a wide variety of genres, both new and used, at this house-turned-bookshop dotted with palm trees and shaded with canopies. It’s a lovely place to wander, get some California sun, and find your next read.
The Iliad Bookshop, North Hollywood
The Iliad Bookshop is a classic staple, brimming with used titles. The shop is one of the largest used bookstores in the area with thousands of books on its shelves. Outside the North Hollywood bookstore, a large mural featuring famous authors greets you. Inside, you’ll find the shop’s famous cats ready to greet you. So take your time browsing and finding new furry friends.
The Last Bookstore, Downtown Los Angeles
Another bookstore list about LA, another mention of The Last Bookstore. But could we even have an LA bookstore list without mentioning this downtown staple?
The Last Bookstore is a massive shop located on 5th and Spring in downtown Los Angeles. It is a celebration of art, inviting you to explore its labyrinth of books, records, and art exhibits. This may be LA’s most famous bookstore, and it’s certainly a must see for book lovers.
Lost Books, Montrose
Lost Books is a unique shop where you can find books, records, and plants. The shop is located along Honolulu Avenue in Montrose, which is lined with local shops and restaurants. Greenery covers the walls and ceiling, while winding shelves draw you in, creating a calm and inviting space to find the perfect book.
Once Upon A Time Bookstore, Montrose
Not far from Lost Books in Montrose, you’ll find Once Upon a Time Bookstore. The shop is known as the oldest children’s bookstore in the country, and is the perfect place to find great reads for little ones. In addition to books, the shop carries a selection of toys and store merchandise as well.
The Open Book, Woodland Hills (locations also in Canyon Country, Northridge, and Simi Valley)
This location of The Open Book in Woodland Hills is a spacious shop with used books, records, memorabilia, and more. It’s located on the second floor of the Topanga Village shopping area, which is home to a tall plant-themed climbing structure that kids love. It’s a great spot to peruse a variety of books and search for some treasures.
PS: If you’re not able to visit these bookshops in person, please consider ordering books, music, or merchandise directly from them online. Cheers!
