A Book Lover’s Wonderland – Retirementally Challenged

Several weeks ago, my husband and I spent a few days in Los Angeles. The main reason for our visit was to see family but we also wanted to explore the downtown area.

When I research an unfamiliar destination for things we might want to do, I often turn to the website Atlas Obscura. Unlike other tourism resources, Atlas Obscura highlights lesser known, but fascinating places of interests. They call themselves “The Definitive Guide to the World’s Hidden Wonders,” and I have found their recommendations invaluable.

That’s where I learned about The Last Bookstore.

Housed in a hundred-year-old bank building, The Last Bookstore is known for its huge selection of used books and a well-curated collection of first editions, rare, and vintage books (complete with the deep, musty smell that bibliophiles cherish). Customers can also browse through new fiction and non-fiction books, as well as an extensive selection of vinyl records.

Almost as impressive as the books themselves, are the way they are displayed and the visual delights sprinkled throughout the two-story building.

The marble pillars of the former bank’s atrium support a beautifully carved and painted ceiling.

A bank vault serves as one of several themed book nooks.

The stairs leading up to the second floor.

Harry Potter meets Fantasia.

The door into a genre-themed room; this one focuses on True Crime.

The Book Tunnel.

One of several Book Loops found among the shelves.

In a time when so many independent bookstores have disappeared – and even the huge chains that spelled doom for the indies are closing – The Last Bookstore has managed to hold its own. Even at an impressive 22,000 sq. feet, it’s not as large as Amazon, but it has a lot more heart.

If you love books, check out the What’s on Your Bookshelf? linkup, hosted by Donna, Debbie, Jo, and Sue.

And, if you love doors (and tunnels and mysterious loops), visit Dan’s Thursday Doors challenge to see more.