What a gem of a bookstore…read more Local hangout for Westsiders with tonssss of books, a café, lots of seating, and a children's section. They hold different events as well. I love that they have early hours even on weekends for those of us still up at 7am no matter what. Going in at 8am on a Sunday and seeing others already there? *My people* They have "bar" seating along the windows for working use with bar stools. Laptop/reading seating. They have tables and one BIG table for those enjoying café purchases and for those needing back support *cough cough* me. Village Well is just such a nice place to hangout in if you love books and/or need a place to work instead of home so you don't fall asleep. Anywhere that puts passion into books...is my favorite place.

As a local author, I want to share my experience with Village Well's consignment program so others…read morecan make informed decisions. I placed copies of my books there, including a recent title that had been in the store for less than six months. When I followed up, I was told there had been no recorded sales and that books are subject to removal after a period of time without activity. When I returned to the store, I noticed that much of the "local author" section appeared sparsely stocked, which raised concerns for me about how long books are kept on display and how actively they are supported. To be fair, the store did communicate that: Authors are responsible for following up on sales Shelf space is limited Books may be removed after a certain period However, I think it's important for other local authors to understand that: Placement does not guarantee visibility or promotion You may need to actively check in and market your book yourself Unsold books may be pulled without much notice If you're considering consignment, I recommend having a clear plan to promote your work and staying in regular contact with the store. Just sharing my experience so others go in with clear expectations.

I love a cozy independent bookstore, and this is one of the coziest I've seen yet. Lovely place…read morewith a robust collection of new and used books. Well-organized across a wide range of genres and interests, the inventory is a pleasure to browse. Lots of lovely gifts and toys, too, including local and California-themed items. Service is welcoming and friendly, with knowledgeable booksellers. Parking is ample and the surrounding area has lots of cute little shops to browse as well. A delightful place to visit and shop!

The Book Jewel instantly brought me back to the neighborhood bookstores of years past--warm,…read morewelcoming, and genuinely cozy. It has the kind of atmosphere that invites you to slow down, grab a book, and settle in for a while. Though small in scale, the shop is thoughtfully laid out and manages to offer a little bit of everything. The seating area, with its comfy chairs, rugs, and soft lighting, really adds to the charm and makes the space feel lived-in and inviting. There's even a sweet, sectioned-off area just for the littles, which is a lovely touch. We didn't manage to spot the store cat (must've been on a break), but we did find some great books, so no complaints there. Parking was easy thanks to the large shared lot, which made the visit even more stress-free. We'll definitely be back.

What a cool lil bookstore! A romantic bookstore to be exact! I had heard about this pink bookshop…read moreand needed to go in search of it! I am so glad I did! So many fun goodies in there! Cool merch from sweaters and tshirts, to baggus and book sleeves and stickers and bookmarks! But the book selection is where it's at! So many great authors and titles! So much fun to meander through and find a good one that's been on your list for a while. When I walked in I was greeted and was left to my devices to roam, which I appreciated. Once I was at the register everyone was super friendly asking if I found what I was looking for and chit chatting about my selections! I would highly recommend this lil gem of a bookshop! They even have a vending machine outside, which wasn't complete when I was there but how fun is that!

This is a fun stop if you are in Culver City, especially if you like reading romances. My friend is…read moredipping her toe in this genre, so it was a must visit. The store is feminine. Reflective of both the genre and its most female fanbase and female ownership. They have a good selection with a variety of genres. The staff person who helped my friend seemed really knowledgeable and made several good recommendations, in addition to books, they have some great tchotchkes like crazy stickers, bookmarks, cards, and candles. They also had a small stage for book signings. The space has a relaxed, friendly vibe. The Ripped Bodice is centrally located on a corner in a shopping, dining area. There is metered parking just outside and a parking garage about a block away. Go find a new read and stroll down the block to grab a drink or nosh while you delve in. Recommended.

We do go to this location more often than other Barnes locations because it is closer but once…read moreagain, we went in last night and Jasmine was visibly horrible to us. We walked in, she glared at us- I tried not to think much of it, but as she was finishing ringing me up I looked up to thank her and she was literally grimacing at me, and this was after she tried to hurriedly ring me up without even asking if I was a rewards member (I am) or anything else. I keep trying to give her the benefit of the doubt because I also work in retail, but girl just seems miserable. Literally I have NO other issues with any other employee there, everyone else has been so kind so I brought my review up to 4 stars from 3. But if you're going to give me a dirty look Jasmine, wait until I turn around. This is a smaller location but I'll continue to visit, I just really hope Jasmine isn't there- it's always uncomfortable when she is.

Honestly so disappointed in the customer service of this location now…read more This is a long one. I used to go to the previous location and customer service was always on point. Sales associates were friendly, helpful, and always down to talk about books. Now... I feel like I'm a bother for just wanting to buy my books and leave. This experience was the one that kinda left me wondering why do I bother with this location... (It's the closest location to me soo I guess there's that) First waiting 5 mins when multiples registers are open and only one other patron making a purchase for an associate to finally walk back to their register to help us. Young lady ended up being super friendly and all was fine - she's why this gets a redemption of 3 stars - Stardew pin gal you're cool. My family and I walk out I see a bookmark I wanted and u turn back in line. I get helped by a different woman - blond curls (really pretty hair, also I know both your names but don want you in trouble just disappointed) - who seemed completely bothered by helping me. Ok whatever we all have our days. She lets me know my membership is expired...something stardew lady missed. I ask damn ok I wasn't informed can I bring back my books return and repurchase and re up my membership. Now she seemed doubly annoyed and bothered. Come back in a few days she says. I let her know: no no we just walked out with the books they're here. She responds I know just come back in two days..... I look back at the line - empty. Umm so you want me to come back?? Yeah and just talk to whoever is here and explain what you want. Confused I walked out and hear her sigh and when I looked back the three sales associates went back to being huddled and chatting. Double checked policy.... Nope not a policy thing returning books.... TO REPURCHASE WITH MY REUPPED SUB is not against policy. Called a different store they said yeah they should've just done it in the moment. Checked stores hours not close to closing so that's not it. There have been other instances of weird stand off behavior that has left me wondering WTF is going on... Look y'all I'm not gonna tell you how to live your lives or where you should be working, just remember both sides of the counter are human and in a world where being a BIPOC is getting more and more dangerous, a friendlier attitude can go a long way.

New location!! Don't park in the 7/11 lot. Really nice space that feels darker than the previous…read morespot but also cleaner. They have a bathroom which is key since I'm usually driving from Thousand Oaks or San Diego. They still have the BEST DEALS ANYWHERE!! Discounts on all new trades and graphic novels, dollar bin books, heavily discounted used trades, and a massive selection. It's heaven for a comic book nerd. They buy collections and are female run which is awesome. This place holds the crown as my favorite comic book shop which is saying something because I go to A LOT of shops. Im a comic book shopaholic.

Whenever I come here I pretty much follow the same self guided path throughout. Aka, my search…read moreroutine based on my interests. Immediately to the left side of entering you have the discounted graphic novels. Both paperback and hardcover. I find at least one gem everytime. I then move through the back issues, followed by a short trip through the graphic novel shelves. And finally to the current issues. Which would be the whole right side wall of the store. They have a solid selection. Both new, old, and in-between. Everything's well organized and prices are definitely reasonable. Which means it's rare that I ever walk out empty handed. If youre a comic fan in the area, then definitely worth a visit.

Interesting find attending their nearby Sunshine Makers Market event in Culver City, Los Angeles,…read moreCA., event that was held within the same Helms Bakery District Plaza on Saturday, Dec/21/2024. Arcana: Books On the Arts store was within walking distance from the Helms Bakery District Plaza, not far from Pasta Sisters which I have to return for next visit. Staff was super friendly and efficient. I was in a rush going back to another vendor from the Sunshine Makers Market event next door, so I was mainly here browsing all their post cards section. I did bring a post card home from this bookstore but will return for future visits when not in a rush.

Friendly staff. Excellent inventory. Probably my favorite bookstore worldwide. Prices are always on…read morepoint.

Sideshow Books is a mess, but I love it. The selection is amazing. They have old books and new…read morebooks. Their prices are fair and the service is just amazing. If you can't find it, they will help you. they likely have it. We so need more real book stores. Sometimes I have to drive pretty far to get to one. You never know what you will find here. We love owner and the entire staff is just super knowledgeable. You will love this place. Don't trip over some of the books. The place is not huge and those books have to go somewhere. I think it is important to support any bookstores still standing. As I have said before soon they will be gone. What a shame.

Beautiful and special bookstore, great selection, very kind owner, great prices - definitely check…read moreit out!

I love this store, located inside the Mitsuwa market. It offers a great selection of books, pens,…read morestickers, traveler's Notebooks, and many gift items. You can also find Japanese manga and other unique Japanese goods. Their always excellent selection includes blank books, journals, plushies, and cute tote bags. Also, some T-shirts, mugs, mood rings, and coffee mugs. I came in for adult coloring books. Immediately next door, you'll find a market specializing in all Japanese foods and sundry items. This includes fresh sushi to go and shops featuring all kinds of Japanese fast food. After shopping, you can enjoy a meal there--shop, then eat: it's a great plan. Friendly service. Easy to park!

So this is the 3rd kinokuniya branch I visited and this is the smallest branch. The good thing…read moreabout this location is that it's by mitsuwa supermarket. The location also has a small food court area with a selection of various Japanese stalls. Since it's a smaller branch the selection is less. But if you want to go to a Japanese bookstore, grocery and eat some Japanese food - this location has all 3.

I love this bookstore in Venice Beach. Something about the zines in the section by the front door…read moreand the fact that one of my favorite healing authors books was being displayed prominently when i walked around a corner (so i bought it) made it feel comforting and homey. The people who work there are really knowledgeable. If you're in Venice Beach and get a chance to stop by, check it out. It's the kind of bookstore that makes you want to slow down, wander, and maybe leave with something you didn't know you were looking for.

Who reviews a book store? Well me and 99 other people (at the time of review there was 99 haha)…read more I came here on a terrible date several years ago, but because I love this book store so much, I make the trek here every now and again despite my initial encounter. If you're seriously allergic to cats, enter cautiously. They keep to themselves, but I know some people do have fierce cat allergies. Otherwise it's a lovely independent bookstore with recommendations guaranteed to get you out of a read slump. Definitely a fun way to escape the chaos of Venice beach for a few minutes while you stroll through the packed aisles teeming with books of all kinds. One of my favorite things to do and places to be in Venice!