Book Shopping in Los Angeles: A Literary Adventure Through Iconic Bookstores

Los Angeles is a sprawling city full of excitement, culture, and creativity — and it’s also home to some of the best independent bookstores in the country. As a book lover, I couldn’t resist exploring a few of LA’s most beloved literary gems. From spacious, well-curated collections to cozy, hidden treasures, LA’s bookstores have something for every reader. On my recent book shopping adventure, I visited three must-see spots: Hennessey and Ingalls, Skylight Books, and The Iliad Bookshop. Each stop was unique, offering its own charm and character.

First Stop: Hennessey and Ingalls

Our first stop was Hennessey and Ingalls, an iconic bookstore nestled in the heart of Los Angeles. Known for its stunning selection of art, architecture, and design books, this store is a haven for anyone who appreciates beautiful, visually engaging reads. If you’re an art lover or a design enthusiast, Hennessey and Ingalls is an absolute must-visit.

The store’s spacious interior is filled with books on everything from architecture and photography to interior design and fashion. The shelves are meticulously organized, making it easy to explore topics that catch your eye. As someone who loves art and architecture, I was in heaven browsing through stunning coffee table books that showcased iconic buildings and famous artworks. While the store’s focus is on art, it also has a diverse collection of other genres, including history, literature, and travel.

What really stood out about Hennessey and Ingalls was the atmosphere — it felt calm, sophisticated, and inspiring. The bookstore itself is a work of art, and it’s easy to lose track of time while getting lost in its shelves. I picked up a few beautiful design books that I couldn’t resist and left feeling inspired and ready to dive deeper into the world of architecture.

Next Stop: Skylight Books

After our visit to Hennessey and Ingalls, we made our way to Skylight Books, a beloved independent bookstore in the heart of Los Feliz. Skylight is a true community hub for readers of all kinds. As soon as you walk through the door, you’re greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere, filled with the hum of book lovers browsing, chatting, and exploring.

Skylight Books offers a well-rounded selection of books, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, memoirs, and children’s literature. It’s the perfect spot to find a new bestseller or discover a hidden gem. The store has a welcoming, cozy vibe that makes it easy to get lost in the aisles and discover something unexpected.

One of my favorite things about Skylight is their fantastic selection of books by local authors. It’s clear that they’re deeply committed to supporting the LA literary community. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate, and they’re always ready to offer recommendations or help you find exactly what you’re looking for. I ended up picking up a novel from a local author that I’d heard a lot about but never read before — a great find!

Skylight Books also hosts a variety of events, including book signings, author talks, and book clubs. If you’re in town, it’s worth checking their schedule to see if any events align with your visit.

Final Stop: The Iliad Bookshop

Our last stop on the book shopping tour was The Iliad Bookshop, a treasure trove for used and rare books. This quirky independent bookstore is tucked away in North Hollywood and offers a vast collection of secondhand books. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours browsing and still leave with a stack of new-to-you books.

The Iliad is known for its extensive selection of used books, which span across all genres — from literature and history to science fiction and fantasy. If you’re on the hunt for a specific out-of-print book or a unique first edition, this is the place to be. The store is packed to the brim with books, making it feel like an adventure just to explore the shelves. It’s the perfect spot for bargain hunters and collectors alike.

What I love about The Iliad is the charm of a secondhand bookstore. It feels lived-in, and there’s something special about finding a book with a history. I stumbled across a few rare editions I couldn’t resist and left with a new stack of books I can’t wait to dive into. The staff is incredibly helpful and always happy to chat about book recommendations or the store’s latest finds.

Bookshopping in Los Angeles: A Perfect Day for Book Lovers

Whether you’re in search of a rare find, a gorgeous coffee table book, or a new bestseller, Los Angeles has something for every type of book lover. My stops at Hennessey and Ingalls, Skylight Books, and The Iliad Bookshop made for the perfect literary adventure, and I left each store feeling inspired, refreshed, and ready to dive into my new reads.

LA’s independent bookstores offer a unique, personal experience that you won’t get at a chain store. These places are filled with character, charm, and a deep love for literature. If you find yourself in the City of Angels, be sure to stop by these three spots — you’ll leave with a book (or a few) that will make your trip even more memorable.

Happy book shopping!