Vroman's Bookstore

08/05/2008 Posted by Star31

I used to rave about Vroman's, but don't except any rave reviews from me anymore. Just in the last two weeks I had to twice leave the store very dissapointed. Two weeks ago I took the time out of my schedule to go all the way to Vroman's (I live about 10 miles away), because according to their website they had the book in stock that I was looking for. On arrival I couldn't find it, because they didn't have it in stock! They could order it for me though, but no thanks, Barnes & Nobles seemed like a better and faster choice, since they always seem to have what I am looking for. If only they weren't located in old town, I wouldn't ever consider going to Vroman's (easier access). Then just today I decided to give them another try. Straight from my work in Pasadena I decided to stop by, since it is only a small detour. I had my 10 week old tiny puppy with me though, and leaving her in the car in this heat was not an option. They simply refused me access! No dogs. I am allowed to carry her into Starbucks, but not a bookstore?? Even though I told them it would only take 5 minutes and she would not leave my shoulder, they wouldn't allow me in. I guess that from now on I will have to take my business elsewhere. And my referrals.

Pros: Easy access

Cons: Inaccurate website, bad customer service, not dog friendly

03/19/2007 Posted by deborahl123

Love, love this place: best postcards, invitation cards ever, beautiful gift wraps, best gift bags, great books, and helpful staff too.

Pros: service, accessories, books

03/12/2007 Posted by tyneshad

This bookstore has, easily, the best selection in Los Angeles. There are popular books mixed in with obscure finds. I like this place because it is a welcome breath of literary fresh air from the Barnes & Nobles further down the block. I also like the newsstand right outside. Makes me feel so metropolitan.

12/06/2006 Posted by rkropp8

There is nothing about this store which is not the best in Los Angeles. Support your independant book store.

11/05/2005 Posted by mcmdkdd

Vroman's is the best book store in the Los Angeles Area. The staff is very friendly and helpful. They stock a wide variety and selection of books and not just the best sellers. They also have a wonderful children's book area and wonderful gift selections. They also have a wonderful paper and pen store a few doors down the street.

Pros: great selection, helpful staff, free parking

11/04/2005 Posted by rahla

No matter what book I want or need, Rebekah in the Vroman's Order Department, can get it for you. Just email her, and it will be on its way. She and the others in the department have found me old books I was sure were out of print and new books (even with autographs) for my own library and for gifts. In fact, the entire staff is friendly, helpful and knowledgeable, and their inventory is amazingly complete.

Pros: Complete stock, Author talks, good parking

10/27/2005 Posted by grace5000

This store has the BEST author events. Parking is convenient. And perhaps because of proximity to Caltech, the store has an excellent science section.

Pros: terrific selection, cpnvenient parking, grest author events

Cons: no discounts

03/25/2005 Posted by mickphil

A wide selection of books -- including a good sale selection just inside the front entrance (past the newspaper and magazine stand) and in the back by the cookbooks. Upstairs, there a nice selection of cards and writing paper, and a room full of children's books that also always full of kids. I know one parent who finds it's a good place to while away an hour with his two boys because there are so many other kids and so much to do there.

03/08/2005 Posted by the_opinionated

This is a fabulous bookstore! It is so easy to navigate and find what you are looking for. Upstairs is a nice little designated area for people who wish to read before they buy. Unlike other bookstores where the only place available is a spot on the floor in the "cooking" aisle. Out front on the sidewalk there is a gargantuan shelf of magazines. The selection looks to be endless. The customer service is also very very helpful!!!!! To top it all off it's also conveniently located next to Laemlle theater. Grab a movie and a book! In which ever order you prefer!

06/11/2004 Posted by netter1

Vroman's is a great place to stop in and buy that "forgotten" gift. Not only is there an amazing and well-rounded selection of books, but there are artsy gifts, hand-crafted cards, quirky garden items and a whole lot more. It may not be a big bargain store, but the knowledgable staff and excellent service make up for the minimal savings at those other places. I especially appreciate the honest reading suggestions from the staff posted on the shelves, particularly when selecting a gift in a genre I'm not familiar with. It's a great place (or the worst place) for impulse shoppers like myself. You'll easily find that one perfect item, or 10 perfect items.

Pros: special ordering, knowledgable staff

Cons: crowded parking lot