Are you looking for bookstores in LA and need help finding some excellent ones that sell second-hand books? We’ve featured 10 of the best used bookstores in Los Angeles for you below.
1. Alias Books East
Alias Books East is on Glendale Boulevard in Atwater Village. They sell a selection of books that are either second-hand or out-of-print copies. You can find all sorts of genres here, such as counterculture, fantasy, architecture, and more.
Alias Books East are always looking to buy books from you as well in order to further their stock. It doesn’t matter whether it is just a handful of books or an entire library collection! They especially like books that revolve around literature, the arts, and movies.
Give them a call if they interest you.
2. The Last Bookstore
The Last Bookstore was originally set up by owner Josh Spencer in his loft in 2005, but since then it has grown in size and now occupies a building on South Spring Street. Make your way through the warren of shelves on both the ground and mezzanine floors and you are bound to find something for you.
They sell a range of new and used books and records, including a featured rare books section. If you are looking for the bookish wedding of your dreams, you can also hire the venue out for events! The Last Bookstore also shares the space with a few galleries and art spaces, making for a great cultural space to explore.
Why not pay them a visit?
3. Counterpoint Records and Books
Counterpoint Records and Books is situated in Franklin village. This family-owned store was founded in 1979 and is a stone’s throw from the infamous Hollywood sign. On offer here is a selection of used books and vinyl.
Counterpoint also has a rare book section called ‘Harmony’, which you can find at the back of the store. Here they stock lots of rare volumes, first editions, and signed copies. If you’re looking to free up some of your bookshelf space, you can sell your books in-store for either store credit or cash.
Inquire with Counterpoint Records and Books.
4. The Iliad Bookshop
If you are looking for a used bookstore that is packed from ceiling to floor with books, then The Iliad Bookshop on Cahuenga Boulevard is a must-visit. This book shop also has a number of accolades and features in publications such as the LA Times.
The Iliad Bookshop’s main specialty is Literature and Art books, but that’s not all that they offer, as you can find plenty of other genres and topics here. While you browse the shelves, don’t be alarmed if one of their two friendly shop cats brushes up against your legs!
Give The Iliad Bookshop a call.
5. Larry Edmunds Book Shop
Located on the infamous Hollywood Boulevard, Larry Edmunds Bookshop has been a Hollywood institution since 1938. The store focuses on new and used books and memorabilia relating to movies and theater.
There have been many famous faces that have passed through the doors over the years, including film director Quentin Tarantino who even featured the front of the store in one of his movies! The store hosts a range of events such as book signings and screenings.
To find out more, reach out.
6. Sideshow Books
Sideshow Books is situated on South La Cienega Boulevard. They have all sorts of used books on offer, including a lot of vintage copies and first editions hiding on the shelves for you to discover.
If you are unsure what you want to read next, their staff are more than happy to curate a mystery bag for you containing a selection they hope will interest you. Sideshow Books also works closely with various media and production companies, including lending out period books for TV shows and films.
Start a conversation with Sideshow Books.
7. Next Chapter Books
Next Chapter Books have been running since 2006, and are located in Canoga Park. This family-owned and operated business has even earned a few awards, such as being the Best Book Store in the Daily News Readers Choice Awards!
You can find all sorts of used titles here, but Next Chapter Books specializes in topics such as US military history, the fine arts, and biographies to name just a few. If you are looking to clear a bit of space on your shelves, you can sell eligible copies to them.
To learn more, check them out.
8. Books on the Boulevard
Opened in 1995, Books on the Boulevard is situated on Ventura Boulevard. They have almost 30 years of experience in selling great quality used books and particularly specialize in hardback covers.
They have such a large selection that almost all genres and subject matters are covered on their shelves. If you can’t find what you are looking for there’s a good chance one of their staff can point you in the right direction! They will also buy your old books from you if they meet their requirements.
Get in touch with Books on the Boulevard.
9. Malik Books
Malik Books is located in the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Mall. This independent book store specializes in selling African-American literature. They also have a range of gifts and calendars on offer.
There are books for all age groups, so everyone is included here, and a mix of used and new titles are on offer. Malik Books also host regular events, including readings and audiences with a range of African-American authors and writers.
Why not ask Malik Books a question or two?
10. Other Books
Other Books is a mix of books, comics, and zines. They mainly focus on translated copies, as well as literature representing or by people of color. You can also find an assortment of international publications too.
With an assortment of new and used titles, including some rarer out-of-print offerings, you are sure to find something that will interest you here. Subject areas you can find include philosophy, black history and culture, and children’s literature and books.
Say hello to Other Books.