Best Bookstores & Libraries in Los Angeles, United States
1. Book Soup
A legendary bookstore on the Sunset Strip, offering a vast collection of new and used books across all genres.
- Unique Selection: Features both rare and bestselling titles
- Location: Conveniently located in the heart of West Hollywood's entertainment district
- Events: Regular author readings and book signings
2. The Last Bookstore
A unique bookshop located in downtown Los Angeles, with a labyrinthine layout and an extensive collection.
- Architecture: Incorporates an old bank's vault into its design
- Events: Offers workshops, storytelling sessions, and art installations
- Selection: Specializes in both new and used books, including an impressive collection of vinyl records
3. Skylight Books
Independent bookstore with a warm, welcoming atmosphere in Los Feliz, featuring an excellent selection of literature and events.
- Community Events: Regular author readings, discussions, and literary-themed parties
- Café: On-site café offering coffee, snacks, and light meals
- Curated Selection: Expertly chosen selection of books across various genres
4. Library Foundation of Los Angeles
A public library system serving the residents of LA County with over 80 branch libraries.
- Accessibility: Largest urban public library system in the United States
- Resources: Offers books, movies, music, and various digital resources
- Programs: Provides educational programs, workshops, and community events for all ages
5. Los Angeles Public Library - Central Library
Iconic main library in downtown LA with a stunning architecture, offering various resources and events.
- Architecture: Designed by Bertram Goodhue in the Beaux-Arts style
- Resources: Holds over one million books and various digital resources
- Events: Hosts author readings, exhibitions, and educational programs
6. Hampton's Bookstore
A cozy independent bookstore in Atwater Village with a focus on fiction and literature.
- Curated Selection: Specializes in new releases, bestsellers, and staff recommendations
- Community: Supports local authors and artists through events and collaborations
- Café: Adjoined café serving coffee, tea, and light fare
7. Vroman's Bookstore
A historic bookstore in Pasadena with an extensive selection of books, events, and a café.
- History: Established in 1894, making it one of the oldest independent bookstores in the United States
- Selection: Features an impressive collection of books across various genres
- Events: Regular author readings, signings, and book clubs
8. Diehard Books
A comic book and gaming store in Silver Lake with a vast collection of graphic novels and collectibles.
- Comics & Games: Sells comics, graphic novels, trading cards, and games
- Community: Hosts gaming nights, cosplay events, and artist signings
- Knowledgeable Staff: Staff members are well-versed in comic book history and culture
9. Bookstar
A used bookstore in Hollywood with a vast collection of books, records, and movies.
- Selection: Features an extensive selection of affordable used books
- Atmosphere: Offers a vintage, nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of old-school bookstores
- Location: Located on Hollywood Boulevard in the heart of Tinseltown
10. The Grammar Club Bookstore
A quaint bookstore in the Echo Park neighborhood with a focus on independent publishers and local authors.
- Independent Publishers: Sells books from small, independent presses
- Community: Supports local authors and artists through events and collaborations
- Café: Adjoined café serving coffee, tea, and light fare
11. Time Traveler's Bookstore
A used bookstore in Echo Park with a vast collection of books, records, and vintage items.
- Selection: Features an extensive selection of affordable used books
- Atmosphere: Offers a vintage, nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of old-school bookstores
- Vintage Items: Sells vinyl records, vintage clothing, and other collectibles
12. The Booksmith LA
A bookstore in Los Feliz with a focus on literature, art books, and rare finds.
- Rare Finds: Sells hard-to-find titles, out-of-print books, and collectible editions
- Art Books: Specializes in art, photography, and design books
- Community: Supports local artists and writers through events and collaborations
13. Books & Cookies
A charming bookstore in Burbank with an on-site bakery selling homemade cookies and coffee.
- Cookies & Coffee: On-site bakery offering delicious homemade cookies and coffee
- Selection: Features an extensive selection of books across various genres
- Location: Conveniently located near the Warner Bros. Studios and the Media District
14. Burbank Book & Exchange
A used bookstore in Burbank with a vast collection of books, records, and movies.
- Selection: Features an extensive selection of affordable used books
- Atmosphere: Offers a friendly, welcoming atmosphere perfect for browsing
- Location: Located near the Media District and close to major studios
15. Knowledge Bookstore & Café
A cozy bookstore in Los Feliz with a focus on literature, philosophy, and spirituality, as well as an on-site café.
- Literature & Philosophy: Specializes in books related to literature, philosophy, and spirituality
- Café: On-site café serving coffee, tea, and light fare
- Community: Supports local artists and writers through events and collaborations