The Last Bookstore
A popular refuge in Downtown Los Angeles, The Last Bookstore is an authentic cultural destination and book-lovers utopia.
Gravity-defying arches cleverly integrate with comfortable reading nooks to create an inspiring community space. The stunning design is part of The Last Bookstore’s magnetic appeal.
Browse original art, rare books, a remarkable vinyl collection, the $1 section, and more. Among the largest indie bookstores in the world, The Last Bookstore is impressively organized and easy to navigate.
For the behind-the-scenes story of The Last Bookstore, watch this 11-minute award-winning documentary: Welcome to The Last Bookstore.
Iliad Bookshop
Sink into a couch, take in the magical scent of old books, and nourish the soul with an epic story.
A North Hollywood haven, travel to the Iliad Bookshop to explore a quietly inviting space, complete with literary-themed murals, helpful staff, and lounging cats.
Named because the original location was next to Odessy Video, the Iliad Bookshop carries a vast inventory of over 150,000 used books, specializing in arts and literature; discover sci-fi journeys, graphic novels, rare titles, and other gems.
Skylight Books
A cozy neighborhood favorite in Los Feliz, Skylight Books is a hub for literary events and a place to find some of L.A.’s best book clubs and reading groups.
Attracting authors for readings and signings, as well as celebrity shoppers like Chris Pine, Skylight Books is about being on the cutting edge of culture in L.A.
This bright, open, and neatly organized little space (with a large tree centerpiece) invites browsing for both popular and unique local finds.
Supporting Mom & Pops
Bookstore spaces like these provide a welcome escape from a sweltering summer afternoon (or that rare rainy day in L.A.), each with a distinctly different vibe. They’ve created a home away from home where we can joyfully discover hidden treasures that we wouldn’t find on Amazon.
These three destinations are a small facet of the vibrant L.A. indie bookstore scene. There’s something for everyone; which vibe interests you the most?
I love a great book store! Particularly an independent. But it’s been quite awhile since I stepped foot into one, mostly due to Covid. There’s something charming about being around books…it’s a cerebral thing I guess. In New York, we’ve got the world famous Strand, center of bookstore row. However, I did hear disappointing news that they will be closing their doors if they can’t increase customer traffic. A tough reality for them, and all businesses for that matter. Thanks for bringing some focus to the independents. They deserve it.
The Strand! I’ve never been there, but I just watched a Netflix holiday series that features the Strand (Dash & Lily). I hope the show’s success will bring more attention to indie bookstores like the Strand as well. Anyway, thanks for your thoughtful comment, David. Have you been reading any good books during these Covid times?
I have been to The Last Bookstore and I love the vibe over there. I will definitely visit the bookstore you recommend:)
Wow! I love these, especially The Last Bookstore. I’ve been living in LA for the past 4 years now and had never discovered these spots. I’d like to add to the list A Good Used Book. They’re not a bookstore, but they set up shop (or used to before the pandemic) in Grand Central Market and various cafes on certain days of the week. It’s a lovely organization run by a couple that tries to find a new home for these used books. They sell through Instagram now. https://agoodusedbook.com/