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    Bart's Books

    4.6 (486 reviews)
    Open 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Updated 3 months ago

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    Ana T.

    This is a really cool bookstore in Ojai. It's just books, books, and more books. Some books look old, and some are very, very new. It is a great place for book lovers to gather and look for a book to buy and read.

    Sandy B.

    This is a wonderland full of books! A really nice open, airy atmosphere with tables, chairs and benches to sit back, relax, kick up your feet and immerse yourself into another world. There are a lot of off shoots with labeled areas of specialties. Very helpful employees. Street parking as it's tucked on the corner in a residential area. Good pricing too. It was enjoyable to sit and enjoy.

    Street view
    Brenda L.

    You could get lost in a house full of BOOKS, this place will be your entry in!! One of the must visit if you're in Ojai galavanting. New and vintage selections are found here and there is a corner book you can hide in to immerse yourself for a bit. And if you're a pottery lover, the have a fix for your crave here as well. Books are cheap and At price value all found here. So you could be frugal or go all out. Good value here indeed. Don't forget to stop by to find this gem for all bookworms out there. Ojai is calling you.

    Michelle B.

    Okay so I was slightly underwhelmed by Bart's but I do think that's the fault of listening to people online rave about this place. Bart's is a used book store that's unique for its decor and exterior arrangement. I don't think the prices are especially good or competitive and I think people come here mainly for tourism as opposed to actual book purchasing. I did buy 2 books here (nonfiction historical and science fiction). They sell branded bookmarks if you're really into collecting such an item from what feels more like a tourist spot than a bookstore. Employees kept to themselves at the register and don't circulate so you need to read the slightly out of the way signage detailing what genre section you're in. Overall, cute to see once on vacation, but not something that I would return for.

    Used book
    Anna S.

    If you're heading to Ojai, Bart's should definitely be on your list of must-visit spots. Bart's is a bookstore that is entirely outdoors. The sheer size and volume of the place is enough of an attraction on it's own and then the fact that it's built into the natural landscape makes it even more interesting. I could've spent hours in here perusing. Although the place seems to feature a mixture of used and new books, it's actually pretty well organized. Genres are marked throughout the store but staff is also available to help point you in the right direction. There's also spots to sit down and read which is such a welcome sight since some bookstores don't always offer this. They had a huge selection across a variety of genres so you could probably find a bit of everything in here. I would say the prices were also pretty reasonable too, especially since some books looked like they could probably be collectors items. I'd definitely return!

    Children's book
    Jenny G.

    I could spend hours exploring this bookstore! Bart's is one of the most unique bookstores I've ever visited. Both open air and indoors, you'll find a variety of books from travel to sci-fi, California, plants, romance, literature, poetry, kids books, and more. They sell mostly used but there are some new books as well. Free street parking.

    "Interior" of the bookstore
    Patrick R.

    Gorgeous, very photogenic location. I'm usually not into visiting places solely for the Instagram-able nature of them, but as a reviewer I'd say that's most of what this is. That's not to say they don't have a robust book collection. But I did find it a bit hard to find something I must buy as the store lacked much curation. The staff did seem friendly, though when I asked for a "favorite," the clerk said "I pretty much read broadly these days. A bit of everything." I wish he took the cue to sell me on something, as I'm a sucker for adding an extra few titles to my collection whenever I can. Go here, take some pictures, don't expect to find your next "must read." For the store: maybe start selling some stickers, post cards, bookmarks, or merch, or make it more inviting for folks to sit around and hang. We want you to succeed!

    Hours
    RoseEllen S.

    Once upon a time, an incredible Yelp-worthy find! This is THE destination for book lovers and readers alike. This is a converted house with most of the book shelves outdoors and covered. There were wonderful book nooks throughout to get yourself cozy and lost in a book. The vibe here is lovely! Be prepared to spend some time. This is one of the best book stores I have ever haunted. The end.

    Gracela B.

    This place was recommended and didn't disappoint. Read its history on its website. It is like a maze and contained so many books at a discount. I ended up buying a classic yoga book (brand new) for a great price. Is it worth a visit when in Ojai- if you have the time this place is unique and obviously can only be found in Ojai so if you like unique experiences, history, and a bibliophile, can't miss this place when visiting Ojai, it is walking distance from the center of town so you can just park in one spot and walk everywhere.

    Children's books in the corner of the living room
    Lisa V.

    What a fun bookstore! The main house has the new books and the mostly covered yard has the (mostly) used books. I found a few books in the labyrinth of shelves, there is something for everyone! Since it is outdoors, I suggest going on a day that's not too hot, it can get a little stifling. The staff was nice and I appreciated when they asked a person with a dog to leave. (Signage at the entry says no pet dogs) . A fun experience that I would love to experience again!

    Vladyslav V.

    The largest outdoor bookstore in the world, Bart's Books, is an incredible and very authentic place. Huge open space filled with books, wood, and calm energy. It smells like old pages and fresh air. Easy to get lost here for hours just browsing and enjoying the vibe

    Maruko X.

    The Bart's Books is a popular tourist attraction, a must-see for visitors to Ojai, and the world's biggest outdoor bookstore. I like the massive collections and variety of books here, you can always find something fun and interesting, and their used books are in very reasonable prices.

    Christine L.

    Such a fun and unique activity. There's tables to hang out and read. Or you can just walk through the outdoor books. On a beautiful California day, this place is a must visit in Ojai.

    The vibe...

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    I bought "Songs My Mother Taught Me" by Marlon Brando with Robert Linsey Hardcover from the outside racks for a dollar! Great bookstore!

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    Page 1 of 13

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    Review Highlights - Bart's Books

    An outdoor bookstore jam packed with used books, old books, unusual books on every topic and even new books.

    Mentioned in 45 reviews

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    The Calico Cat Bookshop - Inside.  Very small but some great stuff here.

    The Calico Cat Bookshop

    4.1(33 reviews)
    11.8 mi
    $

    I am so happy to repost this review with a 5 star review. Years ago I tried to patron the Calico…read morewith my children and the cashier was anti-child. I recently visited Ventura and stepped into the Calico and started chatting with the owner. I told them about my experience and they knew who I was talking about and said that she had been let go years ago and they work most of the time now. so Yay!! Their collection is large, obscur, and some fun rare finds. It's a great space, kids are welcomed again, and he even has a cool kids collection.

    I love all bookstores, no matter what, all of them…read more This one was slightly harder to love. First the positive: it has a great name. But alas, no cats. Second, I did find about four or five books here (used) that I have not been able to find elsewhere, so that is a big positive. The organization of the books here leaves something to be desired. Some of the books are in alphabetical order. But many are not. That is a bit maddening. There is also no obvious organization of the books by subject matter. But it is a small shop so it is not that difficult to snoop around. If you are looking for the latest pop novels, this probably won't be your happy place. But if you are looking for classics or hard to find books, this just could be your happy place. If you are willing to overlook the somewhat chaotic organization of the books, you could spend some time here and find some real nuggets. The prices seemed fair to me.

    Photos
    The Calico Cat Bookshop - Storefront

    Storefront

    The Calico Cat Bookshop - Exterior

    Exterior

    The Calico Cat Bookshop - Outside.  Oh, how I wish there were cats inside.

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    Outside. Oh, how I wish there were cats inside.

    Smitten - The inside of the bookstore.

    Smitten

    4.9(23 reviews)
    11.9 mi

    This little bookstore makes a big impression! The environment is so welcoming and inclusive and has…read moreservice that exceeded my expectations. The team is so approachable and welcoming, so looking for niche romance novels is never intimidating. I'm a sucker for a good and cheesy romance novel and this spot meets my needs and more. In addition they carry beautiful local made trinkets and have the best selection of book related stickers!! Everything is reasonably priced and you have the added benefit of supporting a lovely Ventura business. Smitten holds release parties and while I didn't get to attend the one I purchased they held my book for me and even kept a pin for me that they gave out at the party! I hear rhag it was a black light event with games and snackies, what a treat! I hope you can visit sometime soon! Okay thanks bye!

    This bookstore is on Main Street and has a definite fun, chic, creative vibe. They sell expressive,…read moreinspired books, along with stickers, bookmarks, and tarot cards. I also saw tarot cards for dogs being sold, which made me smile. For a small to medium space, they make the most of fun and original books and other inspired art. In the back, there's a small meeting space. On the website, they have a lot of events - everything from book club meetings, tarot card readings, a journaling club, a writing club, book swaps, and more. I attended one of the book clubs, where everyone expressively and passionately explained the moments they liked and didn't like from the book. I would never have read such an entertaining and creative book if not for Smitten's book club. The book discussion made me like the book even more through everyone's inspiring analysis. Take a look at this fun, community-inspired bookstore!

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    Smitten
    Smitten
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    Timbre Books - Main room, near the door

    Timbre Books

    4.9(39 reviews)
    11.8 mi

    Timbre Books is a thoughtfully curated independent bookstore in the heart of Midtown Ventura. It's…read morecalm, inviting, and easy to browse at your own pace. The book selection feels intentional, with a good mix of familiar titles, indie presses, and unexpected finds. I've picked up several great reads here for my Caracol Book Club and always feel good about what I bring home. Pricing feels reasonable and consistent for a shop this well curated. The staff pick recommendation cards are genuinely helpful, and the loyalty rewards program is a nice bonus. I also love the seating in the back. It's the kind of spot where you can actually slow down. Journal, read, and sip a coffee from the neighboring coffee shop, Singing Sun, without feeling rushed. In addition to books, there's a solid selection of stationery, greeting cards, and small gifts, plus gift cards that are easy and practical. They also host author events and community gatherings that feel thoughtful and well done. Whether I'm browsing for myself or picking up a gift, Timbre is consistently a good experience. Ventura is lucky to have an independent shop like this.

    ~ A BOOKLOVER'S HAVEN ~…read more Timbre Books is everything I've ever wanted in a bookstore. When you walk in, you're greeted by a bright, airy, modern, and warm space. There are a couple of two person tables near the front, next to big, dreamy windows, perfect for working or reading. To the right, there's a wonderful selection of children's books and cozy reading nooks. It was heartwarming to see kids sprawled out, reading and lost in their own worlds. There's also a table towards the back with charming cards for purchase. Their book selection is impressively diverse and thoughtfully curated, with many titles featuring staff recommendations and reviews. I especially enjoy horror/psychological thrillers and nonfiction memoirs, and there's plenty of those, as well as the newest, hottest books from social media (booktok). They have a rewards program and a monthly newsletter that's thoughtfully crafted giving us the scoop on new arrivals, events, and book recommendations. Their book club meets monthly and has a laid-back, low maintenance vibe making it perfect for busy people who just want to casually discuss a book. I happened to visit during one of these meetings, and it was so wholesome to see people sharing baked goods, laughter being heard, and enjoying each other's company. The atmosphere here feels like a true community, and it gives you those warm, fuzzy feelings. When I mentioned it was my first visit, Mirna quickly made me feel welcomed by sharing details about the store, answering my questions, and suggesting some of her favorite books based on my interests. It's great that the staff have diverse tastes and can offer varied recommendations! Overall, Timbre Books is a unique gem in Ventura, and I'm excited to come back and join the next book club! *HOT TIP: There's plenty of parking available in the lot behind the store and on the street. *HOTTER TIP: Before heading in to browse/read, don't forget to grab a coffee from the charming coffee shop two doors down!

    Photos
    Timbre Books - Kids books area

    Kids books area

    Timbre Books - Sitting area

    Sitting area

    Timbre Books - Cashier section that should be a bar ;)

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    Cashier section that should be a bar ;)

    Bart's Books - bookstores - Updated May 2026

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