Los Angeles Bookstores

Barnes & Noble has three levels of books and music. Signings and workshops by entertainment industry folks are not uncommon.

1201 3rd St, Santa Monica, CA

Book Soup is a rebuke to anyone who says that L.A. has no culture. One of the best independent bookstores in the country, Book Soup is especially deep in works of literary fiction, local history, photography, movies, and music. An international newsstand, bargain book section, and impressive and eclectic series of author readings and signings are fringe benefits.

8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA

Borders is one of the busiest bookstores you're likely to encounter, perched as it is at the entrance to the Promenade.

1415 3rd St. Promenade, Santa Monica, CA

Children's Book World, just west of Century City, offers over 70,000 titles for children. The knowledgable staff can help you satisfy the pickiest readers.

10580 W. Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

Hennessey & Ingalls Bookstore makes a perfect end to a day at the Getty or an afternoon spent looking at Neutra houses. The largest bookstore of its kind in L.A., Hennessey & Ingalls specializes in books on graphic design, art, architecture, and photography.

1254 3rd St. Promenade, Santa Monica, CA

Midnight Special Bookstore may seem like a displaced Berkeley bookstore, wearing its liberal politics on its sleeve. However, strengths in cultural studies, science, European world history, philosophy, mystery, and science fiction appeal to readers of all stripes. Readings, workshops, and performances are held several nights a week.

1318 3rd St. Promenade, Santa Monica, CA

More than 20,000 used, rare, and out-of-print titles make this the area's best mystery, espionage, detective, and thriller bookshop. Author appearances and other special events are regularly scheduled.

1036-C Broxton Ave., Los Angeles, CA (just south of UCLA campus)

This store, one of the best travel bookshops in the West, stocks a huge selection of guidebooks and travel literature, as well as maps and travel accessories. A quarterly newsletter chronicles the travel adventures of the genial owners, who know firsthand the most helpful items to carry. Look for regular readings by well-known travel writers.

8375 West Third Street, Los Angeles, CA