If you're ever in Ojai, make sure to stop by Bart's Books, it's one of the town's many charming…read morespots and absolutely worth a visit. This unique bookstore is set in a former family home that's been thoughtfully converted into a literary haven. Each room has its own character: the kitchen is dedicated to cookbooks, while the formal dining room displays collectible titles that can only be viewed from outside. The living room features an inviting mix of bookshelves filled with a wide variety of reads. Outside, you'll find rows and rows of books lining shelves beneath awnings, creating an open-air browsing experience that's both unusual and delightful. I was curious how they manage the setup during rainy weather, and was told that because of the valley's conditions, rain tends to fall straight down and doesn't impact the books under the awnings. There are so many hidden gems here and you could easily spend hours exploring. They offer a combination of new and used books ranging from a dollar on up. Parking is convenient, with several public lots nearby as well as street parking available

Bart's Books is such a beautiful and unique stop, the world's largest outdoor bookstore, serving…read morethe area since 1964. The open-air setting feels peaceful and inspiring, with so many cozy corners to sit and read while surrounded by plants and shelves filled with both new and used books. A truly beautiful bookstore! The prices were great, and the staff, true book lovers, were incredibly helpful with recommendations. With a huge collection of over 130,000 books, it's easy to spend hours wandering and discovering. It's overwhelming for some. I immediately asked for help and was happily guided to two different areas with books I expressed interest in reading. Definitely worth a stop if you're in town, a serene, special place that feels timeless. They buy or trade books Mon-Fri (10-6), usually up to four boxes a week. You can get a same-day offer or next-day evaluation, and large/rare collections may need an appointment. A great way to pass books on for others to enjoy.

Beautiful and relaxing place to visit. I first learned about comparative religion here as a kid,…read moreand it blew my mind! I love the gardens, the library, and walking here from the Ojai Meadows Preserve. Be ready to be quiet and contemplative when you're here.

This review is based on my trip there in November 2011…read more Wonderful esoteric and spiritual bookshop! It sits within the compound and grounds of the Theosophical Research Society, surrounded by gardens and fountains. I went in expecting nothing by Theosophical related books from Charles Leadbeater, Helena Blavatsky and Alice Bailey. Boy, was I wrong. They had tons of books and titles represent all faiths and traditions, from hokey New Age books on gems and angels to serious tomes on Tibetan Buddhism and Sufiism and everything in between, including some hard-to-find and out of print titles. I was very impressed and will definitely come back if I'm in the area again.

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.

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!

The Book Den is an awesome indie bookstore located on State Street. To get here, there is a nearby…read moreparking structure or street parking all around the area. The shop is on the smaller side but definitely very cozy and packed with tons of good finds. The owner of the shop is friendly and helpful. There is a good selection of different book genres and books in both new and used condition. The books are also definitely reasonably priced. Come stop by and support a local business and pick up a good read!

I always make a stop by a local bookshop while visiting a new city, and this one didn't disappoint…read more The employees were very nice and knowledgeable about their products, and their selection was very unique. They didn't have everything that's difficult to find that I looked for but they definitely had some gems. And we appreciated the AC on such a hot day! I'm not sure why this is listed at $$ instead of $ for pricing, because I bought two used books and one was $8.50 (and difficult to find- a European edition) and $5 (another difficult cover to find). I've seen them going online for more, so I would definitely say that this shop had them priced reasonably. I loved this little shop and will come back if visiting SB.

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!

Wow! The scent of paper and print hang heavy in the air. It has been a long time since I have…read morebeen in a book store that is as densely packed with such an array of reading material. If they don't have it, it probably wasn't worth reading anyway.

Great little bookstore with a vast selection of books. I was really impressed. Prices are…read morereasonable and the customer service is amazing super friendly employees!

Wish I had the capacity to read a book a day. I could load a truck with books that drew me to them…read more Spent hours just exploring.

I have been visiting the Krotona Library and Bookshop for many years, and I hope to be able to…read morecontinue enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds them and the peace there that feels like natural meditation. To dig into ancient wisdom and relevant modern studies, explore the library and the bookshop and let the books call to you. They come alive when you read and study them, but they seem to me to have a magical power of calling my attention to them. When I am ready and sensitive to my inner needs, the library and bookstore generously feast my heart, mind, soul, and body, and I am deeply grateful.

**February 2024: Saturday Afternoon Visit**…read more This Goodwill is tiny, but the items they put out are really good quality and the prices are fair. I don't think I would go out of my way to visit this thrift shop, but if I'm in Ojai I would definitely take a peek to see what treasure it may hold. On my recent trip I bought a white puffer vest that fit me perfectly and it didn't even look like it's been used. I suppose consider the size of the store they only put out the best items so it's worth a look if you're in the area.

This location considers itself a 'boutique" Goodwill. Two employees have told me they price things…read moreaccording to current market value because it is a boutique Goodwill. The prices are prices higher than other Goodwill locations. They upsell used, discarded, unwashed, FREE donated items for higher prices than the other GW's, or Target or Ross.

This store has everything. The staff is very helpful, but make sure you come in there with plenty…read moreof time to browse. They also take special orders so when we have a book club meeting I order my books from here... Every neighborhood should have a good bookstore... And this is ours

This is my favorite bookstore to purchase my books. I also have brought books in to get credit to…read morebe able to buy more books. I was in there last Friday and purchased about 25 books. I figured that would keep me busy until I could get back to this area. After I purchased the books I got back to my home here and realized that I have already read 12 of the books I just got. I am hoping that they will let me do a close to even exchange for ones I haven't read. Keeping my fingers crossed that they will and this bookstore will be a 6 star shop in my book. lol! I was told I have to wait until Monday