Presentation on Map Reviews Nearby

Barts Books in Ojai

4.8 (199) 302 W Matilija St, Ojai, CA 93023, United States

Categories

Book store

Location on the map

Ojai, Ventura County, California, US

Phone: +1 805-646-3755
Site: http://bartsbooksojai.com/

Opening hours

Monday:10 AM–6 PM
Tuesday:10 AM–6 PM
Wednesday:10 AM–6 PM
Thursday:10 AM–6 PM
Friday:10 AM–6 PM
Saturday:10 AM–6 PM
Sunday:10 AM–6 PM

Edit info

Total reviews rating 4.8

199 Reviews for Barts Books 2024:

Review №1

2024-06-14 03:54:43

Absolutely loved it. So many books. Its like a labyrinth, nooks and crannies all filled with books. Outside in the sunshine. Beautiful space with nice, helpful, knowledgeable staff to assist with finding your favorite read. Good selection of books, mostly used (but some new), will definitely come back. Would highly recommend. Plenty of places to grab a bite or a drink nearby and the scenery is heavenly.

Review №2

2024-06-30 01:35:16

Outdoor seating while enjoying books! What’s. Cute idea. Neighborhood outdoor bookstore lives up to the awesome reviews. Parking is in a neighborhood setting so it’s easy. Great prices and you’ll find older books but in good condition. So many sections to visit inside.

Review №3

2024-01-19 02:33:13

Loved this place. It was so cute and had a really good selection of books. Everyone was respectful even when it got crowded. It’s just beautiful. I can’t wait to go back.

Review №4

2024-07-02 05:55:59

Superb bookstore with tens of thousands of titles. Open air book shopping is a new experience for me, but a memorable one. The bookstore is comfortable, well-organized, and the staff was very friendly.Skip Amazon and the big retailers and swing by here for your next read!

Review №5

2024-03-01 20:22:24

Cool booksshop, new and used books. Nice speculative fiction section.Of course the outdoor setting is a lot of fun.

Review №6

2023-04-01 07:34:23

One of the most impressive bookstores I’ve ever visited, hands down. Its stunning location, stemming from an original residential home that has expanded to take on the entire lot is something to truly behold.Mostly dealing with used books, you find an incredible collection of not only single books but categories of books. My favorite area was the art annex and I managed to purchase some amazing vintage books in great quality for the fraction of their original prices. That’s something you wouldn’t expect from a bookshop in an affluent neighborhood!It’s completely overwhelming by its sheer amount of space and literature that it was hard to focus on any one area. Had I not been interested in art, I’m not sure I would have purchase anything at all since I couldn’t keep my concentration on any one location.But it’s a beautiful sight to see and a must visit if you’re in town. And you can’t just help want to support it and feel good that you’re actually reading something that has history and not a backlit screen.

Review №7

2024-05-01 00:53:56

Outstanding book store, they have books on everything from all over the world.

Review №8

2023-08-07 21:23:15

As an avid reader I have known about Bart’s for many years but somehow always missed it during my visits to Ojai. Living in Los Angeles, Ojai is about a 90 min enjoyable drive up the coast. Bart’s is nestled right off the main strip and is surrounded by houses so there is plenty of parking available. It’s very large on the inside, even though more than half the store is uncovered so you can view books in the beautiful California sunshine. They divide up the sections like a traditional bookstore, but they really do have many gems on the shelves and pricing is very fair compared to other well known bookstores.We ended up finding and purchasing many books that I haven’t seen elsewhere and I could have easily purchased way more. We spent about an hour in the shop, but could have easily doubled that because there just is so much to see.Overall a must stop for any reading fan or anyone looking for a really homely aesthetic. Feels like a set pulled right out of a movie in the best kind of way. I will definitely be back soon.

Review №9

2023-09-13 21:42:14

I LOVE Barts Books! Plan to spend a while. There is much to see. If you love to read or know someone who does, this is THE BOOK place!! Its totally unique and extraordinary. There are books outside on the walls. The people that work there love books and are super knowledgeable and helpful. If you are coming from Santa Barbara, its about a 45-minute drive. If you havent seen Barts, I highly recommend it. Plan to spend the day.

Review №10

2023-03-29 07:01:41

Beautiful bookstore! They have used and new books, and also rare collections. One person who works there is constantly checking in on people, asking if they need help. Could easily spend hours here. They have some seating areas so you can take your time reading.

Review №11

2024-06-26 02:03:06

This place is amaaazzzing. Except i had to get oulled out before i spent all my money!! Its about_8/book which can add up pretty quickly but its great when you understand youd be saving money if you bought new and youre getting nice second hand books (appreciating the life they had before and giving them a new one) and it helps them stay in business!! Great selection, you feel amazing when you get a good find.

Review №12

2023-02-21 05:11:55

Large bookstore! Took me by surprise but thoroughly enjoyable and organized. There’s seating around for you to sit and read. From what I saw, books in the Fiction, Children’s and Fantasy genres averaged between $7 and $15. For two books, I paid $20.It is in a residential area so street parking is your only option. It’s cute, just hoped for more contemporary or notable work selections.

Review №13

2023-07-01 17:35:23

Always a delight, kindest service and beautiful assortment, simultaneously the place to find the book you’ve been hunting for forever and find something completely unexpected you suddenly adore. Absolute serenity on sunny days and sweetest little nooks to explore into, read in. The quintessential bookshop, it’s like the books itself own the store somehow? One of my favorite places. ❤️

Review №14

2023-05-28 13:46:01

What a wonderful bookstore. Used and new books.Im a local author, was so excited to see my book,Changing Tides Poetry of love, loss and new life by Katy Hoover in their poetry room.Check it out. You will love this store, you wi love my book.

Review №15

2024-01-07 06:23:50

Love this gem! Super cute bookstore with little nooks and crannies to explore. Recommend a stop.Prices are very reasonable too!

Review №16

2024-03-03 20:37:27

An amazing place to shop for the perfect book or to take your children to explore.

Review №17

2022-07-02 20:59:13

Unique outdoors bookstore. Can easily use an hour exploring all the nooks and areas. We liked that the cook books were located in the kitchen! Fun to explore, reasonable prices, and sometimes authors are scheduled to do book signings. FYI no dogs allowed inside!

Review №18

2024-06-12 22:18:09

What new thing can one say about this place? Huge selection, mostly roofless, low key and comfy. Even has shelves outside, so they trust their clientele. Legendary. From another era and world.

Review №19

2023-07-18 03:50:41

This is such a great bookstore! Our daughter found it on a day trip to Ojai and brought us here when we were visiting her a couple of weeks ago. Amazing selection of books (I even found one that Ive had difficulty finding!) and I really love the open-air layout.

Review №20

2024-06-30 22:25:32

Have made this a favorite stop for many years, especially liking the selection of books and friendliness of staff. Today, the book selection is still great. The friendliness of staff - not so much

Review №21

2023-12-23 15:58:48

Bart’s Books is the quintessential quirky exploratory whimsical and comprehensive bookstore to get lost in, buy books in or just take a bunch of pictures inside to hold you over until you get the chance to go back. The staff is super helpful, the sheer number of well-stocked genres is fantastic, and you can’t beat the layout and location.

Review №22

2024-05-12 15:44:51

Such a unique and awesome location! The staff were attentive but not overly so, exploring the sections is amazing and the selection was great. Next time Im in LA, I will take the time to drive to Ojia to visit this store again.

Review №23

2023-07-18 21:16:02

This place is a hidden gem! I couldn’t believe the titles I found in this store! Absolutely incredible! Steinbeck, Nabokov, and many more! I especially enjoyed the book novel And Quiet Flows the Don by Mikhail Sholokhov. It looked stunning. They knew how to make books back in the day!

Review №24

2022-07-26 22:14:59

This is an amazing book store in the heart of a neighborhood. Plenty of options for everyone. The staff is very helpful and friendly. Id say its a reason to visit Ojai if you are a book lover. Very well organized. They had a fun yearbook section which captivated my teen daughter. They accept trade for books. They also have a well maintained antiquarian section.

Review №25

2023-03-15 18:59:43

Oh, the twists and turns of rows in this place, almost like a book! This unique bookstore has so many book options - arranged according to genre - that you can explore for hours!This was on my bucket list to do while in California. My family visited on a rainy day and while it may have taken away a bit from the experience of sitting and enjoying the garden area seating, it didnt ruin our opportunity to explore the unique design and set up of the bookstore and book options. New and used books, priced to sell. We also got to meet, and speak with, wonderful ladies working there. Left with a bag of books that were worth figuring out how to stuff in our luggage! The only thing that could have made this experience a little better would be a vending machine of beverages and prepackaged snacks, if not complimentary coffee/tea (but then, customers wont want to leave)! :)

Review №26

2021-07-09 14:34:46

This bookstore was so adorable. It was such a refreshing difference to other bookstores Ive been to.For starters, this was an outdoor bookstore with loads and loads of books. The front part of the store is easy enough to browse through but when you walk towards the back of the store you quickly get caught in this maze of section after section.If there was every a maze I could get stuck in for days, this would be it.Also, there were a few benches and patio chairs you can sit at during your visit. Staff was friendly as well.Such a cute setup and an overall good vibe here.

Review №27

2024-05-16 22:00:16

An Ojai institution, beloved by many, and an essential part of the Ojai Valley experience. Limited to no seating, so come prepared to explore. Books are generally sorted, not specifically placed, so while staff are helpful, if youre looking for a particular book, youll need to hunt for it yourself. You just might get lucky though, as I did when I found what I was looking for during a recent visit: JFKs Profiles in Courage.

Review №28

2024-03-06 14:52:18

This cool book store was great to check out! A real diamond rough. The books on shelves on the outside of the store draw you in. With a layout that makes it feel like you are in a much larger space. With lots to see and browse through. I am looking forward to visiting again to see what new books will be in.

Review №29

2021-09-29 14:56:01

Decided to bring some of my book lover friends to this neat and unique spot; I could smell the old wood and books inside the house, I loved it! They walked out with bundles of books and future plans to come back. I loved the vibe of the entire place.

Review №30

2022-01-02 19:43:13

Great spot with a sprawling selection of affordable used books. You can trade in your old ones too.Never have seen an outdoor shop, but it works! They even have an honor system collection for the books on the street.

Review №31

2020-11-08 16:15:37

A beautiful book shop in the heart of Ojai. I came across this book shop when looking for a trail and Im so glad that I did. On the outside of the bookstore there are books that you can just grab and look through around $0.50 each. Books that are relevant and wanted. On the inside of the shop it is open air and offers a large array of different genres and categories of books with Very Friendly/Helpful Staff ... You can see the trees and mountains through the store itself and its just a really unique experience. I would definitely recommend this store as a must visit.

Review №32

2023-01-26 22:53:11

I learned about Barts Books by watching Easy A. I planned a day trip to the town of Ojai because it was in between two destinations of our trip to the Southwest in July of 2021.The bookstore was way cooler than what the movie showed of it. Its an open-air bookstore, something Ive never seen before. Their book collection is vast, selling used and new books. The staff was very helpful in locating a very specific text my husband was looking for, the Nag Hammadi Library. They sold us a used copy for only $10. We couldnt believe that they even had it in stock! I bought a new copy of Anne of Green Gables. If we werent on vacation with limited space and weight in our luggage, we certainly would have bought several more texts.

Review №33

2022-04-13 00:50:34

Support used bookstores! Barts is famous because this was once a home and located in a residential area. Most books are located in and around the patio and also the exterior wall. The Gallery room is where the high end, mostly art and architecture books are located. The staff are kind and patient to guide you find anything specific but I enjoyed meandering around to browse the different areas.Free street parking.

Review №34

2022-09-07 00:56:31

Its a lot bigger than it looks. When you go inside you can get lost in the maze of shelves. There are a few nooks and crannies for people to sit and read. Unfortunately, most of it was outdoors so it was too hot to linger. We wondered how they keep the books dry in wet weather.

Review №35

2022-11-03 04:40:14

This book store is really special and famous for the outdoor area!! You can buy a second-hand book here, and also grab a book, find a seat and relax. They provide purchased drinks but food is prohibited.

Review №36

2021-07-06 10:18:38

This bookstore is amazing!! I have never been to an outdoor space like this. Amazes me how the books don’t get destroyed by the natural elements. Worth the trip to just wander around the maze of books. Best part, the prices. Bought two cook books for $20!

Review №37

2018-05-20 12:30:32

I love it here! The idea of an outdoor used bookstore intrigued me, so I visited my husband. The folks who run Bart’s Books are super helpful and very welcoming. There is an excellent and huge selection of Fiction and several other genres. I can spend all day here as a book lover. There are a lot of great older books to find as you explore, and the prices are very reasonable. There are a couple of outdoor patio tables with lots of seating scattered throughout, so you can get your cup of coffee and enjoy the books and beautiful Ojai weather!

Review №38

2021-11-11 18:18:24

My love for books is already big and coming to this store and finding not 1 but 2 books about New York right before I leave was icing on the cake. I knew I was going to love this spot and purchase books and I’m beyond happy to have found the perfect airplane reads 💙

Review №39

2023-02-22 12:16:27

What a gem. This outdoor bookstore has everything your hearts desire. Old, used and new. Its such a beautiful walk about with some gorgeous sceneries. Must stop when Im ojai!

Review №40

2024-04-06 21:41:47

Fun place to browse. So many books!

Review №41

2024-03-17 05:09:39

The staff is so knowledgeable and the little sunlit reading nooks are sooo adorable. Highly recommending taking an hour and walking around and taking a look at all the different categories they have. I enjoyed the travel and psychology section.

Review №42

2022-04-23 18:33:52

The most unique used bookstore I have ever been to! For one the outdoor setting is wildly different and a welcome change from a traditional bookstore feel, the payment system of putting coins in a collection slot is also unique and feels like something from the past that has been missed for a while.

Review №43

2022-04-17 00:26:32

This book place was amazing! It seemed endless and the employees were very attentive. There were places where you could sit and read. My daughter and I purchased some books. Shes the avid reader

Review №44

2024-06-10 04:53:14

A great, yet unique place. Every time we are in town, this a must stop by.The variety of books and atmosphere is awesome, must go!

Review №45

2023-11-21 01:23:34

Cool gem of a bookstore to explore when in Ojai. Great variety of new and used books and lots of reading nooks and outdoor space. Please note there are no public restrooms on site.

Review №46

2022-07-05 06:58:50

Very interesting experience. Most of the bookstore is exposed to the elements but protected enough not to be damaged. Walking around the bookshelves and in and out of the sunlight was an incredible experience. Throughout the store were seats buyers could use to enjoy a few minutes of perusing their prospective purchases.

Review №47

2021-06-11 13:49:13

Barts is an Ojai institution. It is an outdoor used bookstore organized by category. It is part bookstore and part hand constructed funky maze of bookshelves with nooks of plants and seating. The ceiling is corrugated fiberglass in some areas. The number of book categories is impressive, I saw pricing vary from cents to under $20.

Review №48

2022-04-17 22:47:27

One of the Coolest Bookshops in the World ! A place must to visit in OjAIIts locatedin a neighborhood, so you can find streetparking nearby.The place is such unique . Bookstore is an outdoor space, which you can feel nature and civilization at the same time .The ambience is quiet chill and they offer 2nd handbooks . Inside is courtyard theme full of books!

Review №49

2023-12-18 06:46:50

A beautiful outdoor bookstore! This was the main reason for my groups Ojai trip, and Im so happy to have gotten the chance to browse through. I wouldve easily taken several hours just to go through more of the books. I was lucky to find a used copy of A Little Life, which has been on my to-read list for a few months. Also, if you buy over 200$, then you get a tote bag with Barts embroidered on it!

Review №50

2022-04-25 20:49:17

A beautiful and interesting store. Multiple subjects covered. Books are the fairly early versions but in good condition. Great collection of books on Art.

Review №51

2024-04-25 06:10:28

Beautiful little outdoor bookstore! A must visit. Staff is really friendly and attentive and theres a great selection of both used and new books.

Review №52

2023-05-05 01:13:00

A mistake visit when you are in Ojai .. one of the best used books store I have been to .. Ojai downtown is also so nice .. loved it

Review №53

2024-05-02 15:04:28

Adorable place with a fantastic selection of books !

Review №54

2023-06-27 01:36:40

Amazingly charming outdoor bookstore. Fantastic ambiance and a big selection of genres and books. One of my favorite places to visit when Im in Ojai!

Review №55

2024-04-08 15:45:06

What a fun off beat used bookstore. The staff is helpful and nice. If youre into books you will find this a very pleasing stop on your trip in Ojai.

Review №56

2024-02-11 23:02:27

What a pleasant location! This is a huge book store, open air, with lots of pleasant places to sit and read.Their pet policy is firm though - leave the puppers at home for this outing.

Review №57

2022-05-27 19:42:29

Incredibly unique bookstore built out of a bungalow home. There are some seating areas outside so it’s a great place to hang out and look over some of your finds. If you’re visiting Ojai, you should definitely check it out - even if it’s just to walk around

Review №58

2022-05-11 15:27:41

I recommend visiting Barts Books while in Ojai if only for the unique experience of the shop itself. It grew out of a home. So part of it is indoor.

Review №59

2024-03-08 22:01:52

Awesome little place. Great for meandering and looking as well as book shopping g. They have a very good selection and a very helpful staff

Review №60

2021-04-21 01:00:44

One of the most unique book stores in California, if not the entire U.S. Much of it is outdoors - stacks of books line the exterior walls and about half of the interior is open to the sky. The books have roofing but a lot of the store is just au naturel. Selection is eclectic but quite diverse. Prices are always more than fair. 6 stars!

Review №61

2021-10-19 08:09:57

It’s a very antique and special outdoor bookstore. It deserves more people to spent time to visit and enjoy reading books.

Review №62

2024-01-17 23:53:45

This is everything Ojai in a single place. Barts is a roofless bookstore with a large selection of used books under awnings around a small central building housing new titles and hundred-year-old oak trees growing through everything. Its sort of the easy pick for a tourist visit, but you really cant call it a trap. If you havent been to Barts, you havent really seen Ojai.

Review №63

2022-02-15 21:56:42

Such a cool bookstore! Great art books, great childrens books, cookbooks, everything! We felt totally safe there because they enforced mask-wearing. Cool place, great employees. Highly recommend!

Review №64

2021-07-27 17:04:04

It is no wonder people travel from near and far to visit Barts Books! It is as beautiful as it is unique. We rode our road bikes up the Ventura/Ojai Valley bike trails for our visit, a pleasant trip.

Review №65

2023-11-02 01:18:48

Worth the day trip! Really helpful staff and a treasure trove of used and new books.

Review №66

2020-12-29 06:00:34

Such a unique book store. They always have such great finds. Glad to know they are taking COVID precautions and only letting a certain number of people in at a time. The wait wasnt too bad.

Review №67

2019-06-13 20:21:38

Great bookstore. So many great vintage and new books for all types of people. Great prices as well. Great place to shop, and chill. Love it!

Review №68

2024-06-07 22:57:01

Super cool book shop. Love the open air shelves and friendly, knowledge staff.

Review №69

2024-04-07 19:40:39

I dont believe there is another book store like Barts in the whole USA. Very unique place and extensive collection of used books.

Review №70

2021-07-20 22:01:20

Loved our time at Barts Books!! There is something for everyone here. Easily could spend over an hour exploring and still not get to every corner. This place is HUGE!

Review №71

2023-10-22 19:03:35

It was my first time in California and went to Ojai and went to this bookstore and it was really neat I had a good experience.

Review №72

2024-01-12 15:56:18

Very relaxing. Youll find all sorts of books.

Review №73

2024-01-28 08:04:56

If you love Easy A you need to visit the book store you can find ANY BOOK your looking for I have the amazing experience and find the ANCORA BOOK for Gucci Sabato fashion show

Review №74

2021-05-04 05:22:46

I love Barts. Its what the world needs in a digital age, stacks and stacks of books. We didnt purchase anything this time but just being there was delightful. Plus the little kitchen turned bookstore is my favorite.

Review №75

2021-07-01 01:38:03

Big outdoor used bookstore with lots of nooks and crannies to explore. Theres a few garden tables to sit at, but most people were just perusing the shelves. No food and drink allowed so leave your coffee outside or in your car!

Review №76

2017-03-28 21:59:25

Awesome book store. Great layout that only works in California. Had a solid selection of books in a entertaining way to find them. Laid out throughout an old cool house.

Review №77

2020-09-26 20:02:29

Fantastic!!! Absolutely lovely book store with new and used options. Mostly outside takes advantage of amazing ojai weather and is good for covid.Only downside is price is expensive for used books but totally worth it to support this place

Review №78

2017-09-25 20:21:59

Amazing little gem of a shop! It was my wifes birthday and she fell in love with the place. They gave us a free personal tour of the place!

Review №79

2021-04-25 00:46:57

Outstanding little bookstore...so much variety in books, magazines, etc...great service...& an absolutely beautiful outside venue!!

Review №80

2017-09-06 20:35:03

If you are in Ojai, you must go to Barts! They have books on almost every topic, used and new texts. Fair prices and a great atmosphere.

Review №81

2023-01-04 06:10:51

What an eclectic and fun bookstore. The staff was so much fun. 1st open air bookstore Ive been to. Free books outside what could be better? Every subject you can think about.

Review №82

2024-03-12 18:15:32

Lovely setting, helpful staff when needed, and great selection of used books. I could wander around it for hours!

Review №83

2022-10-05 07:49:05

The most fantastic vintage bookstore weve been to in recent memory. Wonderful collection. We purchased several, cookbooks and a sports memorabilia.

Review №84

2022-08-28 06:23:01

Such a cool wonderful place to walk through. So many books. And it just keeps going and going with paths filled with books!

Review №85

2024-03-03 07:17:20

This bookstore is very special.

Review №86

2020-01-08 23:57:02

What a cool bookstore! So happy I stopped by here! Every subject and also some new titles. The kitchen books are IN the kitchen. Great experience and worth a visit!

Review №87

2021-12-23 00:03:00

An Ojai gem that you simply have to visit. Get lost in this gorgeous bookshop selling new and used books and enjoy the hours youll spend wandering the bookcases.

Review №88

2023-10-19 23:52:49

Barts books is a wonderful used bookstore located underneath beautiful oak trees on a corner lot in Ojai. They have benches and some tables where you can sit and peruse the books. They also sell some new books. On the weekends when theyre closed they have books outside on shelves that you can get and you leave the money in a coin box on the door. Ive been going to Barts books for 50 years. Often Im looking for another book written by a particular author and they will have it. Stopping by its a great place.

Review №89

2022-02-02 13:55:03

I originally would come on special trips as an 11 year old nerd looking for science fiction. I would blow my allowance. Now I have retired in walking distance and can share this joy with guests. Pleasant knowledgeable staff.

Review №90

2021-08-21 21:23:11

Fantastic place! Fun to browse the shelves of used and new books in the open air. A nice collection of all sorts of fiction and non-fiction titles. The staff are super friendly and helpful.

Review №91

2018-07-22 22:48:39

Not every tome is a rarity but, however the used books find their way to Bart’s counter, so much of what I spied in every section were a welcome surprise. I got the sense that even the $0.50 hardcovers lining the exterior walls were a curated selection from a special cross-section of humanity’s cast-offs. Special bonus is it’s all outdoor/open-roof browsing.

Review №92

2021-09-19 00:39:16

Excellent selection of books, all kinds old school new school and random books, too many to read even comics,

Review №93

2024-05-03 16:12:48

Beautiful book store, but very unfriendly staff who dont even manage to say hello.

Review №94

2017-09-30 22:40:02

Very cool spot! Everything is open air and outdoors! Being from Seattle, this is something that we could never see at home! Staff was nice and prices on books were good. Definitely recommend if youre in Ojai...

Review №95

2021-02-15 21:52:07

A vast, well-curated selection & friendly, knowledgeable staff of bibliophiles in a beautiful courtyard space.

Review №96

2019-01-26 18:58:27

This place is AMAZING. I wish I lived so much closer, I would be here all the time. Its a book lovers dream honestly. If youre in Ojai you have to stop by here.

Review №97

2018-02-06 21:51:05

Have loved and supported barts since i was a child. one of my favorite bookstores far and wide, even without the beloved and magnificent three hundred year old oak tree that many of us grew up reading under.

Review №98

2024-05-20 03:08:10

Amazing bookstore and has books on every topic definitely worth a visit

Review №99

2022-02-18 20:41:53

Great variety of books! There’s truly something for everyone.Love the indoor/outdoor vibe, it was fun to get a little lost in the maze of books!

Review №100

2024-03-26 13:53:48

Great bookstore of used books, great collection, great settings. Wonderful stuff.

Review №101

2018-11-05 04:34:59

This is an incredible bookstore. Theres a huge selection, and the open-air setup is very unique. The staff is also very knowledgeable and helpful.

Review №102

2022-07-19 00:18:11

Great bookstore. Many categories. Found two shelves on tennis.

Review №103

2023-04-15 21:19:13

Super cute place to have a date with that book lover

Review №104

2023-04-03 21:11:41

In Art section room feel you visiting European museum so far 😅

Review №105

2021-09-12 04:43:33

It is interesting to see an outdoor bookstore wherein you can start browsing on books in bookshelves at the sidewalk. A lot of books inside in an open ambiance. A unique kind of atmosphere where I kind of like it.

Review №106

2021-04-01 02:23:53

This is such a fun place to casually browse and find great and inexpensive books.

Review №107

2019-01-01 19:58:26

Great collection and selection of new and used books. Wonderful display and arrangement of books both in the outdoor and indoor areas.Very friendly and creative staff. You can even buy custom made stickers.

Review №108

2024-06-10 11:14:16

Wonderful, open air bookstore! Worth a trip to Ojai by itself.

Review №109

2019-08-24 12:28:29

This has to be the coolest bookstore around. Places to read, lots of books new and used. The indoor outdoor setting is perfect and peaceful.

Review №110

2024-07-01 22:10:19

What a wonderful place!

Review №111

2023-08-18 08:34:49

Unique book store with a large selection of used books. Great selection of science related content.

Review №112

2022-09-29 01:10:27

One of the most unique locally owned bookstores youll ever visit - indoor spaces flow into outdoor spaces, mixing new and used books into one of the most beautiful bookstore visits youll have. There are one of a kind, leather bound, signed volumes and used sci-fi novels straight off your grandpas shelf. Went twice in 3 days and would have liked to have spent more time here. Could not recommend more highly.

Review №113

2023-01-12 15:07:03

Great place for browsing books of all kinds. Claims to be the largest outdoor bookstore in the USA. Certainly the largest I have ever seen. Bargains for the discerning shopper willing to spend the time. Even has good section of kids books. Great placement in Ojai, California

Review №114

2022-04-15 03:09:40

Great place to visit. Tons of Books.

Review №115

2023-05-30 04:40:38

This bookstore was so cool. I loved the outside experience with nature and they had an eclectic selection of books mostly old with the newest I found being 2-3 years old.My only con is they overcharged me on a book. The book didnt have a price on it and the lady at the front quickly glanced through and charged me $51 which I thought was rather high given it was secondhand. I googled the book and found it on Amazon, target, and other bookstores for $40 in the same edition and hardcover style. It does have an MSRP price of $60, but it then again it was published almost 2+ years ago. Do your research befor purchasing a book and happy hunting!

Review №116

2023-05-05 21:15:01

Very cool hidden gem. Unique, sprawling bookstore that has tons to go through, new and used. Beautiful indoor / outdoor building that is nice to explore through all of the books. Helpful and friendly staff make it easy to find what you are looking for.

Review №117

2024-01-11 02:03:51

Super nice outdoor bookstore! A must visit if youre in the area!

Review №118

2019-07-30 19:01:29

Absolutely love Barts Books! Great atmosphere, great books, great customer service!

Review №119

2022-04-18 22:55:40

Beautiful place for book lovers. We left with a few bags of books. Recommended 🙂👍

Review №120

2023-11-06 03:39:48

Such a cool find! Love this bookstore - lots of vintage books which was a nice throwback and a good collection of childrens books and books in foreign languages (which are the only things I look for in book stores haha)

Review №121

2022-05-08 00:17:27

An outdoor bookstore (no roof) - only a couple of sections are enclosed

Review №122

2020-10-22 02:55:05

Such a cute store! Great selection, timed 15-min entry for customers. A must-see when in Ojai!

Review №123

2024-05-02 17:54:00

Outdoor bookstore in beautiful picturesque Ojai... Um, yes please!

Review №124

2021-11-29 09:15:36

Such a lovely and unique bookstore:)

Review №125

2024-01-14 05:43:40

Nice book store with only second hand books. Love the art section

Review №126

2017-06-21 13:03:56

Best selection of used and out of print books. One of my favorite parts of Ojai!

Review №127

2023-02-07 21:52:29

Great little place for a bookstore. Not overcrowded. Variety of selections. Picked up many books at fair prices. Some books were clearly used, but doesnt that mean, its just a great read?..lol

Review №128

2023-07-23 18:45:01

Great atmosphere! Amazing people! The selection of books is expansive and well laid out, kind of feels like you’re walking through a well designed maze.

Review №129

2023-06-11 02:21:52

A gorgeous open air bookstore with used and some new books. Some truly amazing old books as well as many of my favorites from childhood. I had a hard time not buying everything and staying for hours just browsing.

Review №130

2023-05-04 21:31:17

A beautiful place with a huge selection of used, new, antique, and collectable books. The staff were kind and helpful and the atmosphere is magical. If you love books and bookstores you must visit Barts Books in Ojai.

Review №131

2023-01-08 00:34:07

Staff unhelpful, rude, and entitled. Book selection uninspired, and they had no interest in helping my child find the book they were looking for. There were four staff members huddled around the front, with the affect of complete disdain.I have a gift certificate for this place, where I developed my love for books as a child. It breaks my heart to write this review. It is no longer the place I fell in love with. I will not be returning.

Review №132

2024-03-03 03:44:21

Lovely experience in the founder’s former home. Great place to explore

Review №133

2024-01-02 04:27:13

If you love reading books, then Barts Books is the place for you. New and Used books abound.

Review №134

2019-12-03 19:47:58

Cutest outdoor bookstore. Got some great used books and enjoyed the seating area outside too!

Review №135

2022-10-18 02:35:31

Absolutely beautiful bookstore.Unique. A must if you are in the area

Review №136

2022-02-08 14:00:25

Awesome outdoor bookstore with plenty of books to choose from including sheet music and magazines!

Review №137

2023-04-17 05:08:14

A special place. Highly recommend the kitchen.

Review №138

2023-09-27 21:25:52

The most fun bookstore in the world! indoors/ outdoors and everything in between. Super selection, good prices, wonderful atmosphere.

Review №139

2021-06-15 06:12:42

Such a cool little gem in Ojai! This place has tons of books. You can easily spend an hour just browsing!

Review №140

2021-08-29 17:02:44

Fantastic bookstore with an expansive selection of books at reasonable prices. Staff is very helpful. The store itself is incredibly unique and built around a central house surrounded by many indoor/outdoor spaces stocked with books. Theres also a rotating inventory of 50-cent books on two of the exterior walls (also available for after-hours purchase). Doesnt pander to tourists/aspiring influencers (à la The Last Bookstore); mostly just a great place to buy books.

Review №141

2023-09-24 17:27:44

Whan an incredible book store!! One of a kind

Review №142

2017-09-15 00:22:47

Magical place to get lost in a story. Bring a cup of tea and spend a few hours reading in the patio.

Review №143

2020-10-07 16:06:15

Ive been there many times. They have great Books! This book has to do with my Pico Cousin 💖

Review №144

2024-05-19 16:31:21

Old books had been collected there. You can find old books there.

Review №145

2021-08-14 20:16:16

Best place on earth, well, I said it.To be able to give your beloved (or not much so) books a chance to keep their voyage on is a rare chance by itself. To do in a residential housing turned into a book store (cooking books are in the kitchen how awesome is that?) is another level of coolness. You can buy, trade, sell or even donate books of any kind. There hasnt been one time where I havent found a read, something I wanted to get, something I wanted to get into, or just that one book that calls you from the shelf to be picked up.Go there even if youre not a fan of reading it is definitely worth a look

Review №146

2021-04-28 02:37:08

A book lovers dream!This is one very unique book store offering new & used treasures. The town of Ojai itself is one of the coolest places and this bookstore couldnt be in a better spot.Opened in the 60s and is known to be the worlds largest outdoor bookstore. There are over 130,000 books here waiting for new homes. Confession, for the first few minutes upon my arrival I went around smelling old books. Its one of my very favorite scents.So who is Bart?Bart is unfortunately no longer with us but hes left behind this incredible store that he himself began and the indoor part was his actual home. He was an avid reader and decided to share his books with anyone who was interested via the honor system. That system is still alive today with books that can be purchased at anytime from their shelves that are built right out to the street.Open 7 days a week from 9am to sunset.Thank you, Bart.

Review №147

2018-01-25 07:48:53

Wonderful, unique selection of books. Open and pretty. Plus a really cool cat helps at the register

Review №148

2019-12-23 04:34:36

AMAZING! I love used bookstores, and this is now one of my top three in the US. It was my first time there, and it was wonderful! I did keep getting a little distracted wondering how they keep the books safe from the elements. Luckily we are in SoCal, so there arent many elements. They also sell super cool mugs that are locally owned. AND I got a free tote for spending over $100. I LOVED everything about the store!

Review №149

2022-01-19 13:27:34

So many (used) books and the prices are good. The store has pretty much any genre and they even have some books in languages other than English/Spanish, though that section is small.•Staff is friendly•masks are a must even though the place is open air•no parking lot at the store, but the streets around the store have enough parking unless its a very busy time

Review №150

2018-04-23 23:18:26

A cool bookstore with direct exposure to the outside. Benches, tables and chairs are plentiful for lounging around an afternoon with a book or two...

Review №151

2023-06-01 04:44:58

A gem of Ojai. Stop and have a chat with the owner, Matt, the guy is incredibly knowledgeable about so many topics. The store has many unique literary finds and cool nooks and crannies to get lost in. If you stop in Ojai, Barts has to be on your list.

Review №152

2023-10-03 12:25:53

This is truly one of ojais little gems they get visitors from all over the world they have a unique approach to selling books with books on the outside wall facing the street and they are respected so much that no one steals the books a must see if you decide to come to ojai!!!

Review №153

2021-01-14 01:11:17

Every book store worth its weight has shaped a personality. Barts is a lovingly curated collection of used volumes, displayed in a marvelous ramble of shelves sheltered from the weather, but open to fresh air and sky. The worlds best patio! Im a writer, and a reader, and I found a book there that I had been looking for, Our Story Begins, by Tobias Wolff. Success.

Review №154

2023-06-20 10:03:33

Every genre of publishing available. Pot boilers and 1st edition collection. Friendly, knowledgeable and helpful staff. Buys your old books weekdays. Will special order for you.

Review №155

2022-07-02 23:01:55

Sadly, this was not a dog friendly establishment. Ive been to other used book stores and dogs were not a problem. Unfortunately, this book lover and buyer chose her dog instead of Barts books. I was really looking forward to getting some new used books especially since it was a tourist who wanted to contribute to small town businesses.PS- the staff behind the counter didnt look approachable, either.

Review №156

2020-11-20 13:24:47

Delightful used bookstore. Qwerky and fun to visit to browse the selection. There are portions that are inside yet most is outdoor. What I mean by this is that its an open air bookstore where a large portion of the place has patios surrounded by covered bookshelves. The area that is more indoor has passageways that are open (no doors), so the air is circulating well. The one exception is the rare books room.There are staff that have a good sense of their stock and are knowledge about authors. Since this is a used bookstore its hit and miss whether the book will be there. I notice boxes of books arriving all the time. The store does have a number of best sellers (slightly more expensive). I dont know what their policy is about buying books.

Review №157

2023-12-25 04:21:14

Very cool and awesome selection of books at great prices!

Review №158

2022-01-25 14:30:12

This open-air shop is quaintly unique, offering many more titles than I expected to find in a small town used book store. Sorted first by genre then alphabetically by author, this store is well organized easy to browse. The staff is helpful and friendly.

Review №159

2022-05-15 22:30:03

This spot was highly recommended by Los Angeles locals as a must see. Glad to confirm they were correct! So very cool that there is a fully operational bookstore outdoors! Rain or wind is a rarity here, so this would never work in most other places.

Review №160

2023-02-04 21:37:26

Awesome bookstore, very orderly and easy to find a specific book or topic if youre looking for one. Prices are fair, a bit above market rate but its a great environment and very unique.

Review №161

2023-10-01 16:07:29

Its a sanctuary for books more than a book store. Being there, you feel nothing but peace and quiet. You could spend a whole day in there.

Review №162

2017-05-17 01:38:13

This is the most amazing place - you can get lost for hours. They have every book you could imagine on every subject. Simple the greatest used bookstore in the world. My only question is being outdoor open air bookstore - how do they keep the books so well protected from the elements? We went the day after a heavy rain and everything looked just fine. Great Staff.

Review №163

2021-12-19 20:09:04

A local institution. An extensive selection, lovely people, and just generally a good way to spend a quiet hour or two. If you happen to be a night owl, there is an outside section that never closes and works on the honor system. In addition to a wide variety of used books (and a massive sci-fi/fantasy section), they also carry a small selection of new books and a few crafts. Sodas available for purchase, but no food or drink is allowed in the store (which is mostly outdoors with small awnings - bring a sweater in winter).

Review №164

2022-01-10 03:17:19

If you love the smell and feel of book then this is a must on you day trip to Ojai. I believe all the books are donated and then resold at the best prices. When you really start looking around this used to be a house. Now every nook and cranny is filled with books. We made it a goal to buy at least one book for our visit.Pro tip: the books on the outside of the property are always public facing. Theyre the most discounted at $.50 cents. ..yes 50 cents. You go to the front door and drop your coins in the mail slot. Its all on the honor system.

Review №165

2021-06-13 23:43:53

A wonderful outdoor reading experience, hidden treasures of books waiting to be discovered

Review №166

2023-05-31 01:15:07

Its a nice place for used books. Decent prices. Good place to take pictures. Staff was very nice and was okay with people taking pictures.

Review №167

2023-06-23 19:33:56

Wonderful outdoor bookstore. Great selection fairly priced and well ordered. Did I mention it’s outdoors? Browse forever!

Review №168

2019-07-29 00:06:12

Bart’s books is a truly magical place. It is one of those used bookstores that I return to again and again. I always find new treasures to take home. I really enjoy the diverse collections and the way they’re arranged. There are even books on the outside walls for anyone to grab at anytime (there’s an honor pay system for those). Highly recommended!

Review №169

2017-11-29 04:46:41

A wonderfully fun bookstore! This bookstore really drives home how lovely the weather can be in the region. The books lining the outside of the store are .50 and are available 24 hours a day (just throw your change through the slot). Hit these shelves up for quirky tomes and books for crafting.

Review №170

2020-11-08 22:00:39

Come and dig your destined bookBecause if COVID-19, they have limited people in. Absolutely a safe place to spend the afternoon.

Review №171

2017-01-31 04:43:04

Stopped here to peruse after a relaxing visit to Meditation Mount. The place itself is very cool the way its set up. As you walk in you become surrounding by books and it is really a very cool atmosphere. I didnt stay too long because I knew I wouldnt be buying anything, for used books they are a bit pricey. I almost bought a book because it had a postcard in it written in 1962, thought that was pretty cool. Definitely stop and take a gander if youre in the area!

Review №172

2018-09-01 11:58:03

Beautiful outdoor bookstore with an amazing rare books collection

Review №173

2020-12-06 20:15:33

Always a wonderful experience...the knowledgeable staff makes finding books a snap, however, I come here to browse and always find at least 3 books I want to bring home. Theres just no substitute for a physical book -- sorry Amazon....I love Sci-fi paperbacks and they have a decent collection. Recommended.

Review №174

2019-01-22 22:56:44

Easily the coolest bookstore I have ever been to!! Staff is deeply knowledgeable about books and can quickly take you to where something might be located. This place is a treasure trove of literary bliss! When I said I was from out of town, the owner offered to ship the books to my home for free (if I spent enough, which was not a problem)!! Cant wait to go back!

Review №175

2019-04-06 21:32:21

Barts books has got to be the cutest most generous bookstore I know. There are books everywhere, yet its all open. Their selection is of a very wide variety, from antique to astronomy, comic books to romance novels, and everything in between. There are tables available for youre leisure, and the service is so friendly and open; a reflection of the shop itself. It remains one of my favorite bookstores.

Review №176

2021-10-22 20:49:50

A must-see for anyone passing thru Ojai who loves books. The unique feature that it is outdoors is quite cool. On past visits I have lingered up to two hours in this book shop.Seeing as how I have a four year old… I was bummed that there were no restrooms so we had to cut our visit short. But don’t you fear… We bought two books before we left :)

Review №177

2021-05-25 04:57:44

How can you go wrong with a Bookstore that used to be featured live on Johnny Carson? This is a wonderful, magical bookstore, with new and used books on the inside and used books on the outside you can buy anytime, 24/7. Inside you might get briefly lost in the corridors, and get this - its an open air bookstore. well worth the visit - and stay for a while.

Review №178

2023-11-18 00:23:56

This iconic bookstore should be on every bucket list! It is a very special place. Go!

Review №179

2023-04-07 14:43:45

Incredible selection of books! I found so many treasures. Too bad they don’t allow pets “inside,” however, as the place is pretty much all outdoors…

Review №180

2017-06-20 21:29:16

I love Barts. They have an amazing selection of used books organized in outdoor shelves around an old local home. The entire property has been converted to bookshelf space, even the house interior. There are plenty of places to sit, browse, and just enjoy the smell of old books.They usually have classical or other soft music playing and if youre lucky youll see the shop can wandering the stacks. There is no onsite restroom, so if youre planning a long stay, jeep that in mind.Nonfiction takes up a full half of the store and the employees are well-versed in locations of any book or author you might be seeking.

Review №181

2024-06-24 14:46:37

Great selection of used books

Review №182

2023-05-09 02:44:36

Absolutelymust stop here when in Ojai. Great for books and Instagram photos if thats your jam. Excellent prices and friendly staff. Be prepared to search if you need a specific book.

Review №183

2022-04-17 15:10:45

Awesome unique space, most of the book store is outside, huge neat space. Most are used books one indoor room with new books. Also has a collection of rare/first editions for purchase. Worth a stop!

Review №184

2021-04-08 00:56:09

The best place in Ojai. Love the time spent. Can spend many more !!!!!

Review №185

2017-10-08 04:43:15

Amazing selection of both new and used books. A place you can geek out and read while drinking coffee in am outdoor setting, or just browse. I go once a week, the selection is better than Barnes and noble, and the books are a 1/10th of the price.

Review №186

2018-05-18 13:42:42

Incredible bookstore with a wide, wide range of topics. Prices are pretty good ranging from $4-8 on the titles I checked out. Its a really neat little environment Half indoors and half outdoors. Definitely recommend if youre around town!

Review №187

2018-02-16 15:41:01

What a great bookstore! I drive from Oxnard just to go here. Its somehow quaint and huge. You wont believe what you can find here. The store is open air with some inside areas as well. Lots of good quiet reading spots too. A great way to spend an afternoon. So glad it didnt get burned in the fire.

Review №188

2023-09-25 00:08:09

A very unique bookstore, new and used. It’s mostly outdoor. Nice concept of

Review №189

2020-01-18 05:29:34

Great place to enjoy finding a good book, staff helpful and knowledgeable

Review №190

2020-12-01 20:11:50

Probably the most fun setting for a book store ever. There is nothing like this. Both new and used books available, and maybe not everyone your want, but a good large selection in stock. Fun to walk through just for the wonderful and joy of it all.

Review №191

2023-07-03 05:12:53

I could spend hours there. One of my favorite bookstores in the Central Coast area. Highly recommend.

Review №192

2024-05-14 07:01:58

Very cool! No bathroom.

Review №193

2019-06-08 01:29:48

Probably my favorite bookstore. It is all outside with great places to hide out and read a book. If it rains it is still covered enough to feel dry and cozy. Great selection of books. Good prices. Used books in wonderful condition. Also new books.

Review №194

2019-08-18 04:32:16

Wonderful staff laid back a magical place of books. I bought a brand new French book for $3 instead of 17.80Euro($20USD). Great collection of things, well catalog well kept clean. It is a miracle how do you spell stay so fresh under the Ojai open sky, but that is their secret and remains to be explored another day . Happy reading 😊

Review №195

2022-01-30 16:17:12

Beautiful bookstore! I always find something either for me, a gift or my students. Love their book selection. A perfect place to get lost in and enjoy a book.

Review №196

2019-04-25 03:37:18

This is the best book store in the entire state of California. I doubt anyone would disagree. The best thing about this book haberdashery is their honor system! Where do you find that in our day and age? No where! Barts books had a great selection of used books, collectors books, one of a kind vintage, and historical books. You will find cozy chairs and benches to sit while you peruse your finds. They also have a childrens section for your childrens pleasure. A beautiful thing of this site is their location and the actual layout is pretty much outdoors. I always enjoymy visits to Barts in Ojai. Plan on a few hours of wonderful stolen time to regroup and have fun with the child inside us all.This place is beautiful.

Review №197

2019-03-21 01:12:27

Any time Im in ojai I HAVE to come here. Its all outside with so many books!!! And cute tables to read them at. Its like a maze full of knowledge! The workers are always very friendly and know where everything is. Just bought a signed biography of one of my favorite comedians for only 6 dollars!! Barts is my favorite used book store

Review №198

2022-12-31 00:16:54

Great spot. Good vibe. Awesome selection. Fair prices. Helpful staff. My GF bought 6 used books.

Review №199

2020-02-09 03:33:55

I grew up and Ojai and this place has been around for decades. Its an exceedingly unique book shop and youll never find another one exactly like it. Really wonderful selection of fairly new and very old and rare books. Dont leave Ojai without visiting Barts Books!