In today’s world, everyone’s got a story to tell. This is why so many new books are being released left, right, and center. Even if you can’t write, you can find a ghostwriter to get your ideas into a book and get it published. And as long as there are books being released, there will be people who will be there to read them.
However, with the rise of online options, bookstores are a dying breed within the US, and it is no different in Los Angeles. Even though it is getting harder to find a local shop you can escape to and stumble upon a new book, luckily there are still a few stores thriving in this changing landscape. These bookstores have become destinations and are successful because they are independent and cool with a faithful, supportive clientele. There are things that can be done to appeal more to new readers or to fit in with the changing landscape like adding Vinyl Wall Lettering to the front of shops and on glass, they can fit it into their aesthetic and offer that appeal. It is all about how these shops feel about changing their outside look. If you find yourself in the Los Angeles area, do something unique and check out one of these incredible shops.
Booksoup
Booksoup is the largest general interest bookstore in Hollywood. Conveniently located in the middle of the famous Sunset Strip, it’s known for floor-to-ceiling bookshelves packed full of titles from popular to the unique. Founded in 1975, this store is a Hollywood hotspot, hosting a variety of readings and events. They have a magazine and newsstand out front, where it is not uncommon to spot a celebrity or two browsing the shelves.
Samuel French Theatre and Film Bookshop
One of two locations left within the world (the other being London), The Samuel French Bookshop in Hollywood is a store dedicated to film and theatre related books, journals, and magazines. It is one of the longest-running bookstores of its kind. For most aspiring actors and directors in Hollywood, The Samuel French Bookshop is often their second home as this is the oldest film and theatre bookstore in Los Angeles. It’s been in business for over 65 years, and is undeniably a Hollywood institution.
The Last Bookstore
The Last Bookstore is one of the most iconic bookstores in LA, known for its book archways and stunning interior. It is also California’s largest used and new book and record store. Relatively new on the book scene, The Last Bookstore all began in 2005 in a downtown Los Angeles loft. The ironic name was chosen to reflect the dying nature of bookstores-but luckily enough, the store has done increasingly well over the years. In addition to over 250,000 new and used books filling up two floors, they also sell thousands of vinyl records and comic books, so you can find out which states favorite marvel comic book belongs to this one and then buy that copy as a special memento. Be sure to visit with a camera as this will surely be one of the most visually interesting bookstores you’ll ever discover.
Let us know if you make it to one of these stores! And if you do, what book (or books) did you buy?