The Book Jewel instantly brought me back to the neighborhood bookstores of years past--warm,…read morewelcoming, and genuinely cozy. It has the kind of atmosphere that invites you to slow down, grab a book, and settle in for a while. Though small in scale, the shop is thoughtfully laid out and manages to offer a little bit of everything. The seating area, with its comfy chairs, rugs, and soft lighting, really adds to the charm and makes the space feel lived-in and inviting. There's even a sweet, sectioned-off area just for the littles, which is a lovely touch. We didn't manage to spot the store cat (must've been on a break), but we did find some great books, so no complaints there. Parking was easy thanks to the large shared lot, which made the visit even more stress-free. We'll definitely be back.

I love a cozy independent bookstore, and this is one of the coziest I've seen yet. Lovely place…read morewith a robust collection of new and used books. Well-organized across a wide range of genres and interests, the inventory is a pleasure to browse. Lots of lovely gifts and toys, too, including local and California-themed items. Service is welcoming and friendly, with knowledgeable booksellers. Parking is ample and the surrounding area has lots of cute little shops to browse as well. A delightful place to visit and shop!

*** No Cash Establishment ***…read more The Ripped Bodice is a woman and queer owned bookstore devoted exclusively to the romance genre (opened in March 2016). This independent bookstore started as a Kickstarter campaign and is believed to be America's first bookstore dedicated exclusively to romance novels. The bookstore was even featured as one of questions on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? The Ripped Bodice opened a second location in Brooklyn, NY in August 2023. [Parking]: Most of parking structures in Downtown Culver City (ABM Parking at The Culver Steps or Cardiff Parking Garage) offer free parking for the 1st hour. No parking validation from The Ripped Bodice so no additional free parking beyond the 1st hour. [Atmosphere]: You can tell that every corner of the store has been curated and decorated with thought and care. Before entering the bookstore, there is a vending machine selling pins. Near the front entrance, there is a small stage with chairs where the bookstore hosting book signing events. [Selection]: The bookstore specializes in but is not limited to the following genres: romance novels, LGBTQ, sexual health & wellness, fantasy/paranormal, erotica, historical romance, etc. The bookstore also sells merchandise like romance-themed stickers, notebooks, tote bags, and other romance-related items. There is also a bookshelf featuring books autographed by their authors and a bookshelf dedicated to the Heated Rivalry series. [Conclusion]: A really unique and cute bookstore that is an absolute must-visit for romance book lovers.

Amazing selection of books, found a great heated rivalry inspired hat that I just HAD to take home…read more:) Lots of cute stickers and accessories and goodies inside, definitely stop by! It's worth the visit :)

We do go to this location more often than other Barnes locations because it is closer but once…read moreagain, we went in last night and Jasmine was visibly horrible to us. We walked in, she glared at us- I tried not to think much of it, but as she was finishing ringing me up I looked up to thank her and she was literally grimacing at me, and this was after she tried to hurriedly ring me up without even asking if I was a rewards member (I am) or anything else. I keep trying to give her the benefit of the doubt because I also work in retail, but girl just seems miserable. Literally I have NO other issues with any other employee there, everyone else has been so kind so I brought my review up to 4 stars from 3. But if you're going to give me a dirty look Jasmine, wait until I turn around. This is a smaller location but I'll continue to visit, I just really hope Jasmine isn't there- it's always uncomfortable when she is.

Honestly so disappointed in the customer service of this location now…read more This is a long one. I used to go to the previous location and customer service was always on point. Sales associates were friendly, helpful, and always down to talk about books. Now... I feel like I'm a bother for just wanting to buy my books and leave. This experience was the one that kinda left me wondering why do I bother with this location... (It's the closest location to me soo I guess there's that) First waiting 5 mins when multiples registers are open and only one other patron making a purchase for an associate to finally walk back to their register to help us. Young lady ended up being super friendly and all was fine - she's why this gets a redemption of 3 stars - Stardew pin gal you're cool. My family and I walk out I see a bookmark I wanted and u turn back in line. I get helped by a different woman - blond curls (really pretty hair, also I know both your names but don want you in trouble just disappointed) - who seemed completely bothered by helping me. Ok whatever we all have our days. She lets me know my membership is expired...something stardew lady missed. I ask damn ok I wasn't informed can I bring back my books return and repurchase and re up my membership. Now she seemed doubly annoyed and bothered. Come back in a few days she says. I let her know: no no we just walked out with the books they're here. She responds I know just come back in two days..... I look back at the line - empty. Umm so you want me to come back?? Yeah and just talk to whoever is here and explain what you want. Confused I walked out and hear her sigh and when I looked back the three sales associates went back to being huddled and chatting. Double checked policy.... Nope not a policy thing returning books.... TO REPURCHASE WITH MY REUPPED SUB is not against policy. Called a different store they said yeah they should've just done it in the moment. Checked stores hours not close to closing so that's not it. There have been other instances of weird stand off behavior that has left me wondering WTF is going on... Look y'all I'm not gonna tell you how to live your lives or where you should be working, just remember both sides of the counter are human and in a world where being a BIPOC is getting more and more dangerous, a friendlier attitude can go a long way.

New location!! Don't park in the 7/11 lot. Really nice space that feels darker than the previous…read morespot but also cleaner. They have a bathroom which is key since I'm usually driving from Thousand Oaks or San Diego. They still have the BEST DEALS ANYWHERE!! Discounts on all new trades and graphic novels, dollar bin books, heavily discounted used trades, and a massive selection. It's heaven for a comic book nerd. They buy collections and are female run which is awesome. This place holds the crown as my favorite comic book shop which is saying something because I go to A LOT of shops. Im a comic book shopaholic.

Pulp Fiction has always offered a decent selection of new and old comics, and I absolutely loved…read moretheir previous location. That being said...I'm not a fan of their new location. I went down there on a Sunday afternoon a few weeks ago, and right in front was a homeless man and a pile of what was very likely human shit smeared on the sidewalk lol. Now, I know this isn't necessarily a fault of the comic shop itself, and I do sympathize for the city's unhoused population, but having that being my first impression of their new location was kind of jarring. Never encountered this issue at the old location. I do plan to visit again though, and maybe next time can have a more pleasant experience and give the full five stars.

Interesting find attending their nearby Sunshine Makers Market event in Culver City, Los Angeles,…read moreCA., event that was held within the same Helms Bakery District Plaza on Saturday, Dec/21/2024. Arcana: Books On the Arts store was within walking distance from the Helms Bakery District Plaza, not far from Pasta Sisters which I have to return for next visit. Staff was super friendly and efficient. I was in a rush going back to another vendor from the Sunshine Makers Market event next door, so I was mainly here browsing all their post cards section. I did bring a post card home from this bookstore but will return for future visits when not in a rush.

Friendly staff. Excellent inventory. Probably my favorite bookstore worldwide. Prices are always on…read morepoint.

Sideshow Books is a mess, but I love it. The selection is amazing. They have old books and new…read morebooks. Their prices are fair and the service is just amazing. If you can't find it, they will help you. they likely have it. We so need more real book stores. Sometimes I have to drive pretty far to get to one. You never know what you will find here. We love owner and the entire staff is just super knowledgeable. You will love this place. Don't trip over some of the books. The place is not huge and those books have to go somewhere. I think it is important to support any bookstores still standing. As I have said before soon they will be gone. What a shame.

Beautiful and special bookstore, great selection, very kind owner, great prices - definitely check…read moreit out!

I stopped by Malik Books at Fox Hills Mall while doing some holiday shopping and I'm so glad I did…read more From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and full of positive energy. Yaszelyn provided outstanding customer service great energy, friendly, helpful, and genuinely passionate about the store. I also had the pleasure of meeting the owner Malik, who is a fantastic man and clearly pours his heart into this place. The selection is incredible, books, backpacks, mugs, gifts, and so much more, all thoughtfully curated. Malik Books isn't just a bookstore, it's a true cultural gem. I'm looking forward to coming back and I highly recommend stopping in if you're in the area.

Black owned book store thumbs up for black excellence! So many options atmosphere is peaceful &…read morewelcoming.

I love this store, located inside the Mitsuwa market. It offers a great selection of books, pens,…read morestickers, traveler's Notebooks, and many gift items. You can also find Japanese manga and other unique Japanese goods. Their always excellent selection includes blank books, journals, plushies, and cute tote bags. Also, some T-shirts, mugs, mood rings, and coffee mugs. I came in for adult coloring books. Immediately next door, you'll find a market specializing in all Japanese foods and sundry items. This includes fresh sushi to go and shops featuring all kinds of Japanese fast food. After shopping, you can enjoy a meal there--shop, then eat: it's a great plan. Friendly service. Easy to park!

So this is the 3rd kinokuniya branch I visited and this is the smallest branch. The good thing…read moreabout this location is that it's by mitsuwa supermarket. The location also has a small food court area with a selection of various Japanese stalls. Since it's a smaller branch the selection is less. But if you want to go to a Japanese bookstore, grocery and eat some Japanese food - this location has all 3.