The Last Bookstore

Owner: Josh Spencer

Founded: 2005

“I chose the name named it the last bookstore because at the time borders was going out of business and a lot of other little bookstores and it was just in the news a lot. There’s press about books going away, e-books taking over, but people don’t like to lose something that they’ve loved for centuries.”

-Josh Spencer, Owner of The Last Bookstore

This bookstore holds a special place in my heart. It is located in downtown LA, only a few miles away from USC, where I spent my four years of undergrad. I would come here to read assignments, buy books for class, or just relax. The Last Bookstore’s tall ceilings and elongated, greek pillars provide a majestic ambiance. The carrousels of books and whimsical displays provide a magical world to escape in.

The Last Bookstore is not only a hipster’s paradise, or a lead in the avante garde bookstore movement, but is also an architectural masterpiece. Despite being a fantastic bookstore, this is one of the most popular buildings in Los Angeles. The architecture and design has been photographed by countless artists and tourists. The famous “book portal” upstairs you can find on almost any Instagram Influencer’s feed. There are multiple sofas and chairs throughout the building where you can settle down and read whatever you happen to find while wandering around. (You cannot bring books from the bottom level upstairs- make sure to check your finds into a cubby before heading upstairs!)

Another reason I love coming to this oasis is that it has AMAZING prices; their collections of used books are in such great condition they feel and look brand new (with a $5 price tag!). Sometimes I end up leaving with six or seven books under $20. The sheer square footage of the building allows for each section to have its own spacious roaming room so you aren’t toppling on top of the hundreds of strangers who visit each week. Upon entering, your bag might be checked or you might have to check your bag in (I recommend bringing a small purse for these reasons). Immediately to your left, you will notice a separate room, with light grey sketches all over the white walls and a wide selection of art, culture, and rare books inside glass cases.

THE STORY

Check out this incredible short film by Chad Howitt on Josh Spencer and the inspiration behind The Last Bookstore.

In 1996 Josh was in a moped accident that resulted in paralysis of his lower body. In the video, Josh says, “I went through a depression. Everything was a challenge, everything was difficult. I had to learn to readjust my mind and change my perception.”

After moving to LA in 2002, with no sense of direction and a low self-esteem, Josh decided to “try books.” He had always been a reader and a writer, and started selling books on E-bay in his tiny apartment. His passion flourished and grew into owning a bookshop, turning his “hobby into a business.”

Throughout the video Josh makes his own accomplishments look easy, but watching Josh sort through books in the warehouse you get a sense of the sheer amount of work put into this business. The design and all the human touches throughout the store make it all the more special. Josh says, “We were busy from the first day they opened our door” and attributes the store’s success to the “authentic, real experience” it provides.

Josh is right, it has “become a refuge for a lot of people,” including myself…

NOTABLE SECTIONS

The Last Bookstore isn’t only a bookstore, it houses an astounding collection of records!!

There are also unique art studios upstairs so make sure to stop and speak to the local artists.

NOTE: They often have many author signings, literature readings, and sometimes have free food! Stay up to date with the latest happenings on their social media or website listed below.

CAFE’S & RESTAURANTS NEAR BY

Grand Central Market: For multiple types of cuisines, desserts, coffee, nuts, ramen, spaghetti or whatever you want, this is the place. It is just down the street from the bookstore on Broadway and has the best selection of cultural foods in LA.

Macaroni Republic: is also just around the corner and an excellent Italian Restaurant with hand crafted pasta- perfect for a late meal after reading all day!

Used Books: ✓
Rare Books: ✓

Cafe: ✗

Wifi: ✓

Pets: ✗

Events: ✓

 

Luckily, this is NOT the last bookstore. Check out The Best Bookstores in LA for more fun book destinations.

Website: https://www.shopthelastbookstore.com/

Instagram: @thelastbookstorela

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lastbookstore/

Share your experience with @everyotherbookstore!