Pasadena’s Vroman’s Bookstore hosts eclectic inventory, author events for Los Angeles readers

For a bibliophile (no, not a person who molests books, but a book lover such as myself) the independent bookstore is like the drug dealer to my literary addiction: local, but not easy to track down. However, when you do, he sure as hell will deliver, and he’s got good stuff.

Standing in front of Vroman’s Bookstore off Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena, California, this thought echoes through my head. How local bookstores used to be all around us, but with the rising popularity of large chain bookstores, their numbers have dwindled. Along with them has gone some of the eclectic variety of books that you can’t really find in mainstream stores. My attention is then drawn to the building itself, and the enlarged photo plastered to the wall that depicts Vroman’s Bookstore in the early 20th century.

Vroman’s Bookstore circa 1910

Vroman’s Bookstore was founded in 1894 by Adam Clark Vroman, and is the oldest independent bookstore in Southern California.

One of the great things about Vroman’s is the sheer variety of its inventory. The shelves are brimming with countless books along with end caps full of handmade gifts, candles, cards, art and literary merchandise.

My favorite things, however, are the small personal touches such as the “Employee Picks” wall display of recommended reads by the staff. Unable to resist, I picked a “Pick” to add to my own collection: “Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore” by Robin Sloan.  Also of interest was a collection of Taschen coffee table books, and Paddywax Library candles.

Endorsed by Vroman’s Staff

Another helpful touch is the info cards placed on the shelves that list book series order and plot synopses. Several displays also highlight recommendations from other independent bookstores and showcase titles related to the local Los Angeles community.

Another cool thing about Vroman’s is the events that take place on almost a daily basis. Held in the upstairs event space, or in their Hastings Ranch location, authors discuss, sign, and perform readings of their work. Local authors are also supported and are given an opportunity to expand their audience through Vroman’s Local Author Day. A consignment program increases inventory variety by including local work and allows us readers to become familiar with the rising talent in our area.

Mr. Vroman and his impressive ‘stache.

After having spent a much needed two hours (and believe me, that wasn’t enough) inside this book addict’s paradise, I highly recommend taking advantage of its location and visiting Vroman’s. Although a large chain will give you the newest release from Stephen King just the same as Vroman’s will, not many will do it with as much heartfelt appreciation for the printed word. This is why supporting a local independent bookseller is important. Keep them alive so they can enrich many generations of readers to come. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Vroman’s (and of course the books!) makes this a bookstore I plan to spend a great deal of time in. And so should you.

(All photos by me unless otherwise noted)