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    Octavia's Bookshelf

    5.0 (66 reviews)
    Closed 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

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    Crystal K.

    A nice community bookstore nook with curated books and paraphernalia for adults and children and space to sit and chill with a small group

    Giselle B.

    My first time coming in here and it was life changing. I remember as a little girl never seeing representation in book stores. And if it did exist you had to search high and low to find books by Black authors/books that told Black stories. It hurt as a child never having that representation. But after today's stop at Octavia's Bookshelf, I can definitely say my inner child was healed. The employee working today was extremely helpful and kind. There's so many books to choose from here and the pricing is extremely fair! I purchased a few books, socks and also got a tote bag. I'll definitely come back. What an amazing experience to feel represented and seen. I've always loved books and reading but this store made the experience even better. Thank you!

    Brandi B.

    Nice little bookstore, staff was pleasant it was really cute. I wanted to give them 5 stars but the selection was lacking. She was out of a lot of books but did offer to order them. I would return.

    Alice W.

    Such a cute bookstore in a cute, hip little corner. The shop is quite small but it has little sections detailing the categories of books it has. There was also a section of books for recent fire victims. If you're in the area for a coffee or brunch, def check it out! We found parking easily in the neighborhood. (Outdoor bathroom near Lavender and Honey.)

    Tracy D.

    Love this bookstore. Small but carries a lot of books. I believe in supporting small businesses and this is one place that carries the aura of helping its community. It is hard to find parking in the area but don't give up! The employee was super kind and helpful in answering my questions. I look forward to coming back.

    Came across this bookstore @octavias_bookshelf. It had miminalistic look and feel for a bookstore, but there were so many selections for all the different genres. Milan was so friendly and shared so many recommendations. She knew what she knew and all we needed was a cup of coffee to sit by the window. She was wonderful. Definitely a "need to go" rating.

    It's Independent Bookstore Day!
    Pam S.

    What a lovely little book shop! In honor of Independent Bookstore day I decided to begin my crawl here. I loved the selection of minority authors they feature as well as the synopsis of the plots of the books... honestly it looked so inviting and bright inside. The stickers had me CTFU over in the corner. I think if you are looking for a specific book that isn't from a minority of POC author you may need to visit another bookstore if you want it right away. They also do not have a HUGE selection so be sure to call first. I found myself looking up the books they had in the store and adding them to my Goodreads list of TBR. In other words... I shall be back! Respectfully Reviewed.

    The first sign walking toward the entrance.
    Jemila P.

    Today I landed at Octavia' Bookshelf. It's a cozy indie book shop with gorgeous natural light and welcoming feel. I inched my way around the store with my mom to make sure that nothing was unattended. We saw newly designed covers, classic favorites, and a ton of new titles that I am sure could fit somewhere in my house. I loved the book categories, play area for kids by the window & children's corner, as well as seating next to the tarot display. (Bet I could sit down with tea & snacks, and begin writing my next great work!) All I needed was a cup of tea, snacks, and they probably would have had to drag me out. The Octavia section held her numerous titles, whose cover art was so captivating, I didn't get a picture to capture them all. I purchased two books and an enamel pin for $59, which felt fair - not everyone can price items like that jungle company and remain in business. Hopefully I'll visit again soon when my schedule aligns with their future programming.

    Book, notepad, totebag all from Octavia's

    A real gem on the east side. I've been a few times and there's always a great selection of books. You'd be hard pressed to find a similar catalogue at Barnes & Noble or other bookstores. Whoever is at the front will have tons of recommendations if you need. Most recently, I ordered Black Meme through them. With all the chaos of the Eaton fires, Octavia's focused their efforts on the community and understandably the book got lost before I was able to pick it up. Even after that, there was a bit of a wait to get the order. They actually delivered the book to me and included a bag and notepad to make it right. I really appreciate them going out of their way to me feel like a valued local customer.

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    4 months ago

    Lovely store. Never knew it was here. Can't wait to visit again with friends. They also ordered a few books for me as well

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    9 months ago

    Octavia's Bookshelf is a wonderfully curated, if small collection. Don't leave without a copy of Parable of the Sower!

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    1 year ago

    Lovely space, lovely collection, lovely owner. Octavia Butler is one of my favorite writers. Let's support Altadena!

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    Note: My boyfriend finds it a priority to buy books only written by BIPOC authors which is why we came.

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    Vroman's Bookstore - Their own winebar!

    Vroman's Bookstore

    4.5(978 reviews)
    1.8 mi
    $$

    I visited Vroman's Bookstore during a girls trip to Pasadena, and it turned out to be such a fun…read moresurprise. We initially expected a typical bookstore, but it's so much more than that. As one of the oldest independent bookstores in California, it has a really special charm. Inside, there's a wine bar, a coffee shop, and even a cute gift shop upstairs, which makes it easy to spend a lot of time browsing and relaxing. While I was there, I got to listen to an author present her book and answer questions, which added such a unique and memorable touch to the visit. The store was busy, and you could really feel how much people enjoyed being there. The layout is well organized, making it easy to find books by genre. Upstairs, there's a spacious children's section, which is great for families. I also loved the section featuring Orson Welles books and posters. It was a really cool and unexpected addition. Overall, Vroman's is more than just a bookstore as it's an experience. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area!

    Always a great night out to hear from authors. There's usually something interesting going on…read moreupstairs or in the wine bar! Let's do the numbers. PARKING There's a free lot out back. Plenty of spaces for everyone. SELECTION there's more than enough for me in my regular sections, but there are tons of sections I don't usually peruse. Like "wind chimes" and "backpack" sections . If you're looking, they even have snacks for your next read STAFF super helpful and friendly. If they don't know your book (they do), they'll ask a coworker who will know it and have all the extra details you didn't know to ask for. PRICE better than affordable: Supportive! (Readers and writers communities) SPACE There are a ton of accessible open aisles. Huge space outside (maybe for outdoor events?)

    Photos
    Vroman's Bookstore - Heartstopper

    Heartstopper

    Vroman's Bookstore - Vroman's features artist Bill Crite

    Vroman's features artist Bill Crite

    Vroman's Bookstore - This is so me!

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    This is so me!

    Century Books

    Century Books

    4.9(130 reviews)
    1.8 mi
    $

    Walking into this place feels like stepping into another universe -- one made entirely of stories,…read morehistory, and quiet magic. The moment you walk through the door, you're surrounded by towering shelves and beautiful, chaotic stacks of books that feel lovingly curated rather than cluttered. It's the kind of space where time slows down and you forget about your phone because you're too busy discovering something unexpected. Every corner feels alive. The warm lighting, the golden walls, the endless spines of books -- it's cozy, nostalgic, and deeply comforting. You don't just shop here; you explore. And the owner? Truly an angel. Kind, welcoming, and incredibly knowledgeable. You can feel how much heart and soul they've poured into this space. They don't just sell books -- they share stories, recommendations, and genuine warmth. The customer service alone makes you want to come back again and again. If you love books, hidden gems, or places with real character, this is one of those rare magical spots that reminds you why independent shops matter. I'll be thinking about this place for a long time.

    There is no other bookstore quite like Century Books, the owners Judith and Steve are some of the…read moremost wholesome people I have been fortunate to meet. Me and my partner love to visit & chat with them about books, plays, and other things while looking around and they are so accommodating, it almost feels like we are their guests in their home. More than reasonable prices and have plenty to choose from.

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    Century Books
    Century Books - Mastiff at  century books

    Mastiff at century books

    Century Books

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    The Last Bookstore - Have a seat, it's quite warm. #heater

    The Last Bookstore

    4.5(2.7k reviews)
    11.1 miDowntown
    $$

    Walking into The Last Bookstore feels less like entering a shop and more like stepping into a…read moredifferent world. Housed inside a former bank, the space already carries this grand, historic energy that sets the tone before you even start browsing. What makes this place unforgettable is how it's designed to be explored, not rushed. There are cozy spots scattered throughout where you can sit and get lost in a book, but the real magic is upstairs. It opens into a maze of rooms, each with its own personality, filled with carefully arranged books that feel more like art than inventory. At times, it genuinely feels like you've wandered into a dream. One of the highlights is the famous tunnel of books, which adds to that surreal, almost cinematic experience. Everywhere you turn, books are used as decor in the most creative ways, and it creates this quiet moment where everything else fades out. Upstairs also holds one of my favorite parts, a row of art studios featuring work from local artists. Every piece feels intentional, unique, and thoughtfully placed. Right nearby, there's a small coffee shop surrounded by beautiful artwork, making it an easy place to pause and take it all in. This isn't a quick stop kind of place. Plan to spend a few hours here, wandering, discovering, and just enjoying the atmosphere. It's one of the most iconic bookstores I've ever been to, and it absolutely lives up to the reputation.

    If you like books this is the place for you. It is awesome to walk through and look at all the…read morebooks. There were so many amazing old books to look at. The book tunnel was an impressive construction

    Photos
    The Last Bookstore - 2nd floor

    2nd floor

    The Last Bookstore - Book Photo Op

    Book Photo Op

    The Last Bookstore - Welcome to The Last Bookstore.

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    Welcome to The Last Bookstore.

    Once Upon A Time - Caldecott Honoree Cherry Mo signing Home in a Lunchbox.

    Once Upon A Time

    4.6(115 reviews)
    6.4 mi
    $$

    What a gem!!! At first it looked like just a kids book store but it isn't. There is a section for…read moreadults with different genres, Classics, YA with different genres, and then lots of children's choices. They also have plenty of stickers, note books, pens, pencils, and all kinds of goodies. This store is curated to perfection. It may be small but it is mighty. I wanted half the stuff I looked at! Wonderful wonderful selections. Props to whoever does the curating. I left with a notebook, two books, and a bookmark. Very Queer friendly as well! Staff were so amazing! Amazing store.

    Oh my goodness... how have I not left a review this place? (Forgive me!)…read more This is hands down the best bookstore ever! The store and its staff are all amazing. Pippi the cat is the friendliest and softest cat you'll ever meet--literally the most perfect bookshop kitty! The selection of children's book is wonderful. The store is incredibly inviting to children and adults alike. There are a ton of events for kids as well as book clubs for adults. (I've gone to an adult book club meeting and had the pleasure of meeting wonderful people!) the store also carries a ton of signed editions which makes book buying even more special! They also have jellycat stuffed animals which are so cute and soft! It's a great place to buy books and gifts. There is plenty of free parking in the lot behind the store in the public parking area, as well as metered parking right out front.

    Photos
    Once Upon A Time - Really cute book store. I can't find these anymore.

    Really cute book store. I can't find these anymore.

    Once Upon A Time - Pippi Longstocking, bookstore cat, sitting at the register.

    Pippi Longstocking, bookstore cat, sitting at the register.

    Once Upon A Time - Illustrator Leo Espinosa and author Jennifer E. Smith sharing The Creature of Habit Tries His Best.

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    Illustrator Leo Espinosa and author Jennifer E. Smith sharing The Creature of Habit Tries His Best.

    Octavia's Bookshelf - bookstores - Updated May 2026

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