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Bookstores in malls in California

Browsing through shelves of books is better when it happens in the middle of a shopping trip.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Barnes & Noble image 1
Barnes & Noble image 2
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Book store

Three-story bookstore offers a spacious and organized layout with cozy sitting areas and a Starbucks cafe on the top floor. Atmosphere feels inviting and relaxed, attracting many who lounge and read comfortably. The environment blends literary culture with casual comfort.

Beautiful shopping center with a farmers market feel. Barnes & Noble sits in the middle, serving as a great rest place.

Three floors offer a diverse selection of books for all ages and tastes. The space feels cozy and comfortable inside a classic building, with a well-organized layout that invites browsing and reading.

People are saying

"This bookstore is massive, with three stories packed full of books."

"It's a super chill place to sit, read, or just grab a coffee."

"I found Barnes & Noble to be a great rest place in the mall."

Good to know

1

Barnes & Noble hosts author signings and special events regularly.

2

Parking is validated for up to 2 hours with a purchase from the coffee shop.

3

The store features three floors filled with books, music, and gifts.

02
Kinokuniya Bookstore - San Francisco image 1

Multistory bookstore offers wide selection of Japanese books and manga alongside unique Japanese gifts and merchandise. Spacious and well-organized layout creates a pleasant, nostalgic atmosphere with visual displays in every corner. A dedicated kids' corner adds to the welcoming environment.

A low key modern Japanese mall sits in Japantown with Japanese-themed stores and a bookstore spanning two floors. It gets pretty busy, especially the bookstore, and offers food and random finds.

Offers a huge selection of Japanese anime and manga alongside books by Japanese authors. Stocks a unique variety of Japanese toys and gifts not found in other US bookstores.

People are saying

"This bookstore has a huge selection of manga and Japanese books."

"I found the bookstore to be cool and interesting."

"This bookstore is great for comics and Japanese books."

Good to know

1

Kinokuniya offers a wide selection of Japanese books, gifts, stationery, and plushies.

2

Expect to find unique Japanese gifts and gadgets throughout the store.

3

The bookstore has a great collection of manga in both Japanese and English.

03
Malik Books image 1
Book store

Compact bookstore offers live smooth jazz and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Shelves hold a broad selection of African American books, including many for children, alongside curated gifts like backpacks and mugs. The space serves as a cultural gem focused on Black stories and experiences.

A compact African American bookstore sits right in the center of the mall. It adds a unique cultural touch to the shopping experience.

A compact African American bookstore filled with books by Black authors and gift items like bookbags and greeting cards. It plays live smooth jazz and serves as a cultural hub run by Malik and April.

People are saying

"It's a wonderful Black-owned bookstore specializing in African American stories."

"It's a Black-owned bookstore specializing in African American stories in the mall."

"It's so Kid Friendly, with tons of children's books lining the walls."

Good to know

1

The Christmas event is free and includes surprises.

2

In-store book signings are regularly hosted.

3

Events run smoothly and are well-organized.

04
Japan Center Malls image 1
Shopping mall

Shopping mall blends traditional Japanese architecture with modern cultural exhibits, featuring wooden bridges, red lanterns, and a towering pagoda. Atmosphere feels vibrant yet relaxed, with festive decorations and lively sounds from eateries and shops. Visitors engage in cultural activities and enjoy unique entertainment like old-school arcades and claw machines.

Indoor mall offers a Japanese-style shopping experience with many restaurants, shops, and a supermarket featuring Japanese products. It includes a ninja market, a large selection of anime goods, and new stores like boba tea shops and trinket stores in a clean and tidy environment.

A two-story Japanese bookstore offers a large collection of manga, artbooks, and Japanese literature. The shop features authentic stationery and stands out as a highlight for book lovers.

People are saying

"This mall has tons of anime goods, manga, and unique collectibles."

"I found many authentic Japanese eateries and experiences here."

"I found the bookstore with the latest manga and anime merchandise."

Good to know

1

The mall hosts special events like the Cherry Blossom Festival, attracting lively crowds.

2

Monthly pop-up events at OKMARKETPLACE offer unique shopping experiences.

3

Parking can be difficult to find, especially in busy times.

05
Las Posas Plaza image 1
Shopping mall

Neighborhood strip mall stretches nearly three city blocks with well maintained landscape and outdoor spaces featuring tables and a fountain. Atmosphere stays pleasant and not hectic, attracting shoppers who browse a variety of stores including groceries, eateries, and specialty shops. Parking is ample and easy, supporting a calm, clean, and safe environment without panhandlers.

Many shops and friendly little stores fill the plaza, including a Starbucks and Ralph's. Plenty of parking and well-maintained outdoor spaces make it easy to visit without feeling hectic.

A bookstore offers a very good variety of books alongside other shops like a fabric store and eateries. It stands out as a notable spot with a diverse selection in the area.

People are saying

"This mall has a great variety of shops and essentials."

"I found the coffee shop spacious with a nice outdoor fountain."

"I found the bookstore here to have a very good variety."

Good to know

1

Parking is often busy, so visit during off-peak hours for easier access.

2

Las Posas Plaza features a variety of shops, including a bookstore and fast food options.

3

There are multiple eateries, including Taco Bell and a local bakery.

06
Kinokuniya Bookstore - Santa Anita image 1

Human-height Gundam statue stands near shelves filled with Japanese manga, stationery, and art books. Small, well-organized space inside a mall offers a wide variety of unique items from Japan. Atmosphere feels lively and busy, especially during peak hours.

A small store sits near the middle of the mall offering a wide variety of anime books. It is one of the few bookstores inside and is accessible from the second floor near the Gold's Gym entrance.

Offers a wide selection of Japanese books and stationery, especially for fans of art and manga. The layout is interesting and the store stays busy, though English books are limited.

People are saying

"This bookstore has an amazing selection of manga and Japanese goods."

"This mall has an incredible selection of manga and stationery."

"The staff made me feel comfortable and not stupid during my fun activities."

Good to know

1

The store offers a wide variety of Japanese manga, stationery, and unique items.

2

Expect limited space, making navigation challenging during peak hours.

3

Credit cards are accepted, and there are no known issues with card readers.

07
Loreto Plaza image 1
Shopping mall

Strip mall with local businesses including a bookstore and French pastries. Atmosphere is busy and sometimes chaotic, especially during holidays. Parking is often challenging due to popular shops nearby.

A typical strip mall with food options, a bookstore, and nearby grocery store. Parking can be difficult. The mall feels a bit classier than most strip malls.

One of the last bookstores in the area sits inside a plaza with various shops. It offers a nice selection that appeals to both adults and kids.

People are saying

"I loved the nice bookstore here."

"The parking available here is really good."

"It's a basic strip mall, convenient for locals."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging near Loreto Plaza, especially during busy times.

2

Loreto Plaza offers a variety of local businesses, including a bookstore and supermarket.

3

Harry's Plaza Cafe is known for its dinner service and vibrant atmosphere.

08
BOOKOFF Lakewood Center Mall image 1

Used bookstore with an extensive collection of books, vinyl records, CDs, movies, and games. Atmosphere feels cool and inviting, appealing especially to collectors of physical media and fans of anime and retro games. Layout is organized but large, encouraging long browsing sessions to explore the diverse and ever-changing selection.

Wide and interesting CD selection stands out in the mall, better than Walmart or Best Buy. The mall location is convenient with nearby Costco and a pleasant cinnamon bun scent mixing with bookstore pages.

Offers an ever-changing selection of used books with generally affordable prices. The bookstore provides a solid experience for browsing and discovering new reads.

People are saying

"I found a huge selection of movies and books here."

"You'll find a wide selection of books and Funko Pops at this Mall."

"I found so many gems and a wide selection of books here."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times of 1 to 2 hours during busy periods.

2

The store has a huge selection of used and new books, DVDs, and games.

3

Prices for figures can be significantly higher than market value.

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