Sundate: The Last Bookstore
Just like I love thrifting clothes, I love thrifting books even more. There’s nothing like finding a book that clicks with me, especially at a discount! Of all the used bookstores I’ve visited, The Last Bookstore in Downtown LA is my favorite.
I first went there with my family years ago, but felt the pull to return for a “Sundate” with my husband, who shares my love for books. What I enjoyed most about this kind of date was exploring separately (since we have different tastes) and naturally finding each other again in the aisles.
At checkout, we shared our finds and had stimulating conversations about them. The highlights of this visit include the bookstore’s vibe, its clothing section, art gallery, trinket shop, and my book discoveries.
Downtown LA Location
I recently learned about a second location in Studio City and considered going there instead, but it didn’t have the same charm as the original Downtown LA location. It only felt right for this Sundate and my husband’s first time to be at the original location.
Walking in feels like stepping into a time capsule. The smell of old books and the 60’s music playing in the background created nostalgia, even for someone who never lived through that era. It gives vintage LA energy that is unique to this bookstore.
Since my last visit, there’s been major updates: a clothing section of band and graphic tees, a cozy upstairs café, and the vinyl section (that’s always been there) that I somehow missed before. The place can be overwhelming, but it’s worth exploring!
Clothing Section
The clothing section pleasantly surprised me with its plentiful selection of band tees, sweaters, and funny graphic tops. I loved browsing this section because I didn’t know what I’d come across. It was hard not to buy multiple shirts, but the one that won me over was a Pop Art-style cat tee inspired by Andy Warhol’s Banana artwork for The Velvet Underground. It’s the perfect mix of artsy and cute.
Art Gallery + Trinket Shop
As we were about to leave, I realized I didn’t check out the art gallery and shops upstairs. I wandered through part of a gallery that had a $3,300 painting of David Lynch! It was cool, but definitely out of my price range.
I then browsed one of the shops that had trinkets and notebooks. I found a journal that called to me that I planned to make my new “junk journal,” inspired by the collage-style journals I’ve seen online that remind me of the dream boards I used to make from magazine clippings.
My Book Discoveries
One of the best things about this massive bookstore is how many used books are in great condition and super affordable (many were $5 or less). Browsing feels like a treasure hunt and I love letting my intuition guide me instead of searching for something specific.
It’s like my spirit picks what I need to learn at this time in my life. I left with two books, one on consciousness and one on writing. I’m a sucker for self-help books and these felt perfect for my mind, spirit, and creativity.
