5 Independent Bookstores To Visit In SoCal | The Odyssey Online
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5 Independent Bookstores To Visit In SoCal

For all the book lovers out there.

Natriya Chun
Jun 06, 2016
California Lutheran University
358
5 Independent Bookstores To Visit In SoCal
The Last Bookstore LA

With new technology, human beings have found it more convenient to read books from their e-readers. But that just cannot compare to having a physical book in your hand, turning the page and having the real thing with you. Independent bookstores have been through many struggles because of e-books, but if you’re an old soul like me, independent bookstores provide more than just a place to find a new read. Here are some places I recommend you going to in SoCal if you have some time on your hands.

1. The Last Bookstore

Location: 453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Number: (213) 488-0599

Highlights: Insta-worthy photo areas and magical vibes.

This place claims to be the largest independent bookstore left in Southern California, and it’s quite a beauty. A very popular place on the weekends, though, I’d recommend coming on a weekday afternoon.

2. Stories Books and Cafe

Location: 1716 West Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026-3225

Parking: Street parking + parking in the plaza (should be around $2)

Number: (213) 413-3733

Highlights: A little 'hidden' cafe in the back of bookstore to work, really nice area to just browse and drink coffee. Cozy place.

They have really good mint mojito coffee - and it's pretty strong. Stories Books and Cafe is really cozy in itself, and a nice place to work at. It's not always overwhelming busy, just crowded at times, so be mindful of when you decide to go visit.

3. Mystery & Imagination / Bookfellows

Location: 238 N Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91203

Number: (818) 545-0206

Highlights: Mystery/thriller/fantasy/sci-fi books sold here!!

If you’re a mystery/crime book lover like I am, you’ll love this place. The staff gives good recommendations, and it’s wonderful to find a place such as this that that devote their store to this genre.

Fun fact: The late Ray Bradbury was a fan of Bookfellows/Mystery & Imagination - he even said it was his favorite bookshop. Before his passing, he used to sign books here all the time.

4. Hennessey + Ingalls Bookstore

Location: 300 S Santa Fe Ave, Ste M, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Number: (213) 437-2130

Highlights: Focuses on arts, graphic and design, architecture.

Hennessey + Ingalls has such a wide variety of books-- imports, rare finds and more. The store is still family-owned by the founder's son, Mark Hennessey. It used to be booming in Santa Monica's 3rd Street Promenade, but it has just moved to Wilshire Blvd in Downtown LA.

5. Skylight Books

Location: 1818 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Number: (323) 660-1175

Highlights: There's a really cute cat that walks around. Amazing area to just walk around and enjoy the evening.

I personally love the area around this bookstore - there’s some other boutiques, food places and more to just leisurely walk around. Service isn’t super incredibly there for you, but the store itself offers a lot for a book lover.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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