Supporting Local Bookstores

Visiting bookstores is more than just buying books; it's an experience that brings joy, discovery, and connection. In a bookstore, you can browse through shelves filled with different genres, finding new authors and topics that might not come up in online searches. Bookstores also create a sense of community, where people can share book suggestions, attend readings, and join discussions that deepen their love for stories. Holding a book, flipping through its pages, and choosing the right one offers a personal experience that digital shopping can’t match. Plus, when you shop at local bookstores, you support businesses that keep culture, learning, and the local economy thriving.

Los Angeles

We still get to see here Barnes and Nobles that still exists until this present time. I’m glad that this company has withstand over the years of digital reading and online buying. One of the few remaining nowadays, and thanks to lovers of books who supported the local bookstores, but many have been obliterated. I like bookstores and here in LA, I found one that I really like visiting at least once a month. I like the ambience and indeed, it is like a tour. You get to see used books and even new from 1 dollar to 8 dollars. I prefer coming here on Sundays to avoid heavy traffic, and also, I get to hear Sunday’s mass, then walk down to the Last Book Store and on the way, I get to pass the stands of produce products.

The Last Bookstore in Los Angeles is a celebrated haven for book lovers, known for its unique atmosphere and eclectic selection of new and used books, rare finds, and vinyl records. Located in a historic bank building in downtown LA, the store offers a whimsical, immersive experience with its labyrinthine layout, including a "book tunnel," towering shelves, and art installations made from books. It’s not just a bookstore; it’s also a cultural hub that hosts art galleries, events, and spaces for local artists and writers. Visitors come not only to browse its vast collection but also to experience the creative, inviting space that captures the spirit of LA’s diverse literary and arts community.

Los Angeles boasts a wide range of unique bookstores that reflect the city's eclectic culture and literary community. The Last Bookstore in downtown LA is perhaps the most famous, known for its creative interior, including book tunnels, towering shelves, and a vault that now houses rare books. It’s as much an art installation as it is a bookstore, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Another gem is Skylight Books in the Los Feliz neighborhood, a cozy, community-focused bookstore known for its curated selection of new books, including titles by local authors and small presses. Skylight Books also hosts frequent author events, creating a welcoming space for literary discussions and gatherings.

For rare books, Mystery Pier Books on the Sunset Strip is a treasure trove, specializing in first editions and rare collectibles in a range of genres, especially literature and mystery. With its vintage feel and charming garden entrance, it’s a favorite spot for collectors and bibliophiles.

Book Soup, located on the Sunset Strip as well, has been a landmark since 1975. Known for its impressive selection of art, film, and music books, it’s a beloved haunt for artists, writers, and those interested in creative fields. Book Soup also regularly hosts readings and signings with authors from around the world.

Finally, Stories Books & Café in Echo Park combines a relaxed bookstore experience with a café, offering a small but thoughtfully chosen collection of books along with coffee and pastries. It’s a welcoming spot to read, relax, and soak in the creative atmosphere of LA. Each of these bookstores captures a different facet of LA’s literary and cultural landscape.

Paris

Whenever I’m in Paris, I always want to go to Shakespeare and Company. After passing by Notre Dame, still closed at this time, I stopped by Shakespeare and Company.

Paris is home to several iconic bookstores, each with its own unique charm and history. One of the most famous is Shakespeare and Company, an English-language bookstore located near the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Founded in 1951 by George Whitman, it’s a haven for writers and book lovers, known for its cozy, quirky layout and inviting reading nooks. Shakespeare and Company also has a fascinating history of hosting famous writers, such as Allen Ginsberg and James Baldwin, and it continues to support young, aspiring writers by allowing them to stay in the shop in exchange for work.

Another noteworthy bookstore is Librairie Galignani, the oldest English-language bookstore in Europe, founded in 1801. Located on Rue de Rivoli, it has a sophisticated atmosphere and offers a beautiful selection of English and French books, especially strong in art, fashion, and literature.

For a more contemporary touch, La Mouette Rieuse in the Marais district combines books, art, and design in a bright, modern space that also includes a café and an art gallery. It’s an inspiring place to explore a carefully curated collection of books, art, and gifts. Each of these bookstores offers a distinct slice of Parisian culture, where book lovers can lose themselves in stories, history, and inspiration.

Barcelona

One of favorite bookstore in Barcelona is Altair. It has changed a bit over the years. I like coming here whenever I get a chance, because of its vast selection of travel books and outdoor books. It has an extensive collection of maps.

Barcelona also has a vibrant bookstore scene, with several unique shops that reflect the city’s creative spirit and literary heritage. One of the most famous is La Central, a beloved bookstore with several branches, including one in the charming Raval neighborhood. It offers a broad selection of books in multiple languages and specializes in literature, philosophy, and art. Housed in a beautiful building with a café, La Central provides a peaceful and inviting atmosphere, making it a great spot for leisurely browsing.

Another iconic bookstore is Llibreria Altaïr, one of the largest travel bookstores in Europe. Located near Plaça de Catalunya, it’s perfect for those with a love for adventure and exploring new cultures. Altaïr specializes in travel books, maps, and guides, with an impressive collection that spans countries and continents, making it a must-visit for wanderers and travel enthusiasts. This is one of my favorite bookstore in Barcelona. It used to have a nice coffee shop downstairs, because of its capacity — long tables, but then, the size has been reduced losing its regular customers. It has become too small to hang around and have a nice cup of coffee or beer.

For a more modern touch, Norma Comics caters to comic book fans and pop culture lovers. This large, colorful store features a wide selection of comics, manga, graphic novels, and collectibles. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, especially those passionate about visual storytelling.

Finally, Re-Read offers a unique twist on traditional bookstores by selling quality used books at affordable prices. With its "one book, two books, or three books" pricing model, it’s a budget-friendly and eco-conscious option, where book lovers can find hidden gems and classics alike. Each of these bookstores provides a distinct experience and reflects Barcelona’s literary diversity and vibrant culture.