Bart's Books

Bart’s Books is one of our favorite places to visit. There’s something special about browsing books in the open air, surrounded by the charm of the space. The books are a bit on the pricey side, but the experience is always worth it. The staff is consistently friendly and helpful, and we enjoy the sense of community here. It’s such a nice way to spend time together.

Amazing bookstore with a super large selection. It’s almost all outdoor under coverings, and makes for beautiful photo opportunities. I will admit the large selection made it a little difficult to shop intentionally, but if you spent more time here than I did I’m sure you’d be able to find some gold. I would definitely suggest stopping by this unique place if you’re in the area :)

This second-hand bookstore is a local landmark and a pleasant place. The collection is large and varied, and there is something for everyone, and you can enjoy reading right in the store, at the tables, on the benches, and on the steps.

This place is a very unique book store. The experience begins when you approach the establishment, with mounted bookshelves filled with books placed spaciously along the outside walls, surrounded by plants, ivy and flowers. Then, you enter a narrow archway that opens into the main area where the registers are located, and to the right and left are books galore! The setup is a loop, so whichever direction you choose to begin your parousal, you will be able to explore the entire collection. There are 2 separate sections that are not part of the loop: the "kitchen," where you can find books about food (very cleverly planned), and the "gallery," which I unfortunately didn't get to visit. We drove up from L.A. County to visit the city, and Bart's alone was worth the drive!

Great place to find your next read! Tons of great books to check out. The selection appears well-curated. Also neat that you can walk by in the evening and there are books outside to be browsed and bought.

I love this bookstore! My favorite part of Ojai. They have shelves with books on all walls of the house. Great oldies and collectibles plus modern books. Check them out!

Bart’s Books was one of the most magical bookstores I’ve ever been to! An outdoor bookstore! It felt like a hidden gem—so peaceful, charming, and just totally unique. I loved wandering through the shelves in the open air, discovering books tucked into every nook. It’s such a special spot, and I could’ve spent hours there. If you’re ever in the area, definitely go—it’s an experience!

Very cool experience, loved it there. I've never seen a place like that. It was so relaxing and I love how the incorporated nature with the environment. Definitely going back. They also have a selection pf rare books that were really cool to check out too. Anything you need they got it! Great staff too, very friendly.

Such a cool local outdoor bookstore. Located in the middle of town. It is worth the drive. I remember coming here in the early 80s with my family. You used to be able to pick a book and slide your money into a little box. Now the bookstore is bigger and better than ever with a huge selection of books. There is something about being outdide looking at books. If you have never been to Ojai. Now is the time.

If you're heading to Ojai, Bart's should definitely be on your list of must-visit spots. Bart's is a bookstore that is entirely outdoors. The sheer size and volume of the place is enough of an attraction on it's own and then the fact that it's built into the natural landscape makes it even more interesting. I could've spent hours in here perusing. Although the place seems to feature a mixture of used and new books, it's actually pretty well organized. Genres are marked throughout the store but staff is also available to help point you in the right direction. There's also spots to sit down and read which is such a welcome sight since some bookstores don't always offer this. They had a huge selection across a variety of genres so you could probably find a bit of everything in here. I would say the prices were also pretty reasonable too, especially since some books looked like they could probably be collectors items. I'd definitely return!

Once again my review my opinion. We were here this weekend for a Father's Day get away and on Monday decided to take a stroll in town. So many reviews on this location. It is really nice since I love books. The location is fabulous and all kinds of books. I love the fact that you can pick out any book and sit and read. The books are all well priced and so many to choose from. The service however was only outstanding by the only female there on Monday. The guy in the blue cap (yes you know who you are) was extremely rude. I'm not a local and you should be nicer to your visitors. I was only asking a question but you sure made me feel unwelcome.

We checked this place out but didn't get anything. Love the concept of the place. Seems like a lot of people were checking it out becuase it's like a maze and open space to walk and discover second hand books. Cute little gem in Ojai.

What a fun bookstore! The main house has the new books and the mostly covered yard has the (mostly) used books. I found a few books in the labyrinth of shelves, there is something for everyone! Since it is outdoors, I suggest going on a day that's not too hot, it can get a little stifling. The staff was nice and I appreciated when they asked a person with a dog to leave. (Signage at the entry says no pet dogs) . A fun experience that I would love to experience again!

Was in town for a family event and found this gem of a bookstore. We wandered for over an hour and picked up a couple selections to go. The store is set up in and around an older home and the shelves create a wonderful maze of books to peruse. There is a room on the inside that has some incredible collectible and impressive titles. The staff is polite and respectful and give you time to wander and shop without being intrusive. If your a bibliophile, this is a must stop and shop if you're in Ojai.

A reader's paradise! If you love a good book and don't mind that someone has probably read it sitting on the toilet, then this place is for you. Not only do they have a huge selection of used books that span a multitude of genres, their location is impressive, as it's virtually outdoors! What a great way to spend an afternoon! Bart's Books: Probably the ONLY time books and a rainy day don't go together.

This bookstore is shared a lot on social media because it has a cute vibe. As a result, we made the drive up this mountain to check it out. I don't know that I'd be willing to do the drive again, but I did happen to find a couple of books I had been looking for, so it was an overall win.

Used books. There are no new books. It's clean and it's a unique fun environment. The staff is nice. Keep in mind that because it is outside and it is in OJAI... it IS hot and desert like sin shinning. Best time to visit is not in the middle of the day. They do have cold drinks for sale - I was so happy for it. Minimum credit card purchase is $5. There is plenty of street parking. I do recommend it.

If you love books this is the place to be! It's such a cool, creative outdoor/indoor bookstore. They have a huge selection. Even if you're not into books, it's a great stop if you're in the area.

GETTING HERE: Bart's Books in Ojai, CA is located on Matilija Street, between the streets of Canada and Rincon. They don't have their own lot so street parking is your option. REVIEW: Holy cow. Not yet visiting/reviewing Bart's Books is such a disappointment. How have I survived this Yelp Life without driving out here to visit this legendary place! I say legendary because I love books and have missed out on many years of formative book learning and development. Bart's Books is huge! I spent upwards of an hour here and I still didn't visit all the rooms and nooks and crannies located here. I spent most of my time in the History room as I am fascinated with World War 1/2 histories. I could have bought out their entire inventory. Are you looking for a specific book? I would bet $10000 on black that Bart's will have your book. I wonder if they have a rough count of actually how many books they have on property? I was strong and only bought a few books. Picture will (hopefully) load and be attached. I had been looking for a few of these actually. Thanks Bart's! Service was OK. The price of the books were reasonable ^and supporting local and small business = priceless. Yes. 100000% recommend going by Bart's Books in Ojai.

Really cool Ojai stop, especially for book lovers! I enjoyed browsing through the different sections. Another great stop to add to your Ojai day trip.

Great customer service. The staff are helpful and friendly. Amazing selection of books. Beautiful little bookstore. If in the area or just taking a trip, it is a definite a must to stop by the bookstore. There are many things to look at. I will be coming back.

A must see for book lovers and people who like the tangible. I went in the pouring rain and it was still open. :)

Great outdoor book stores. There are some seats to seat and browse books before buying, It can be hot in hot days as it is outdoor doors per se (it's under Verandas) with no fans for air-conditioning, No animals allowed except service animals. They do have beverages for purchase;such as water, coke, apple juice and coconut juice when we were there. The prices are very reasonable; ranges $1 to $3. Parking can hard to find on busy days. The staff there have their moments; some are great some don't want to be bothered.

Oh my gosh, what a treasure. We explored Bart's Books for several hours and I truly could have spent the entire day. An outdoor bookstore jam packed with used books, old books, unusual books on every topic and even new books. The staff was so very helpful, and kind. We started exploring all of the topics, found hidden rooms and corners that offered more treasures. Mr. B found several hard backed gently used John Grisham books that were on his list he hadn't read yet. Priced at just $6 each, he grabbed them instead of downloading to his kindle at twice the price. They looked new with no marks and no damage. What an awesome find. I spent over an hour in the kitchen of the old house where all the cookbooks are housed. I found books I didn't know existed and found some I just wanted to curl up with and read. When you visit you will find a book you didn't know about, but can't live without now that you know. I love this bookstore, and can't wait to go back the next time we are in the area. Parking can be difficult. It is located in a neighborhood with a few businesses, so all parking is on the street. We walked from town and it was an easy walk.

I've seen this bookshop on Instagram more times than I can count so while we were up in the neck of the woods, we decided to take a peek. The place is amazing for a bookstore. Mainly it looks like a bunch of books. Nothing new however, books I've ever gone to has a particular author that I always look for this book. Shop didn't have it. We came, looked around, and left, no sale... I'm guessing this is a place for regulars to hang out and read. There are two people behind the counter. They were happy to point me in the direction but there really wasn't anybody to come hang out and check on us or even make sure we found what we're looking for. Also as we were leaving, nobody said goodbye. To Be honest nobody said hello I said hello. They were happy to answer any questions however when asked. As I said, this seem like a very specific kind of bookshop , with a locals only vibe.

Absolutely perfect for any book lover! There was so many books and pathways! Super fun and cool. Found books I had and books I wanted but didn't get any. Greta prices and good vibes. Def a must see spot for Ojai! Welcoming Service and smiling faces

I bring my 7yr old to Barts Books on Sunday for the very 1st time, for a surprise trip...he's an advanced and obsessed reader...and he was beyond excited as we pulled up. Visually, it was like paradise for him. I was excited to bring him. 3 or 30 books would have been fine with me. (Not kidding). We were there to spend money. The staff at the check out counter...total buzzkill. Would it kill you to smile, engage with him as he's asking you questions, or at the very least pretend that a young kid asking specific questions about books (your entire purpose as a business) excites you? Get over yourselves please....or add a "Pretentious Section" sign and hang it over the register? It's the perfect environment...we get it...but it's not truly perfect if you're acting like "dry sandpaper in the desert stern" to an inquisitive child holding a stack of books. Everyone is screaming "support local" and this local family is desperate for a reason to oblige other than solely supporting local economics. Really nice place, really needing a reality check in customer service. Selection is fantastic. Value, fantastic as well. Be nice. That's free. Charge a dollar more per book if you have to, if that's what a smile and pleasant attitude costs. I'll pay it. Hoping our next trip allows me to bump this review up to a 4 or 5 star. We will try again...

This is a cute outdoor bookstore. They have everything sectioned off by category just like any normal bookstore. The staff is very kind and helpful. It's a nice day today, but hot too. Not much of a breeze in here even though it is outdoors.

What a wonderful and unique bookstore this is. And I will never understand how the books don't get wiped out when it rains. It looks small but it's really not. You'll probably get lost more than once but if you're a book nerd, that's a good thing. They've got both new and used books and the selection of both is high quality. There are lots of excellent authors represented here, including authors of classic books. I loved the service here. An employee walked around and repeatedly, but not annoyingly, asked if he could be of service. He also tracked down requested books and offered recommendations based on customers' favorite authors. Now THAT is service you don't find everywhere or pretty much anywhere. If you are in or near Ojai, you must stop and check this place out. It's terrific. I thought the prices were incredibly fair, too.

Gorgeous outdoor bookstore with used books as far as the eye can see. Great selection of new board books for kiddies inside. Loved how the cookbooks were inside a little kitchen, too! The gentleman working was a little unfriendly and seemed annoyed to have people around, so it didn't feel like the most welcoming environment, but overall a cool visit.

One of the biggest reasons for my recent trip to Ojai. A paradise for book lovers. Affordable books. Most books I saw were between $7-$10, some paperbacks were cheaper (~$4). The store is massive and bustling with people. Quite a few spots to sit and read if you wish to. Friendly and helpful staff. They do have merch and goodies that are more on the expensive side. Books I bought: 1. On the fringe by Michael D. Gordon 2. Places I stopped on the way home by Meg Fee Parking: plenty of spots on the streets nearby. Be mindful of where you park- lots of them are private spots. No restroom access at the store.

Barts Books is a super famous bookstore located in Ojai, CA. It's the largest outdoor bookstore in CA if I am not mistaken. If you are a bookworm then this spot is for you. I loved the vibe of this place and just the uniqueness of a bookstore like this is truly special. The community is definitely lucky to have a spot like this. It's a surprisingly large space with many twists and turns to find cool books in different areas of this shop. Mostly outside they do have a few indoor like spaces for browsing. I also like that the books that are located on the outside of the store are able to be purchased on an honor system by dropping money in a slot. Very cool vibes for sure. For the most part the books are gently used and I didn't find many that looked brand new. That's totally fine because that's what they advertise, it's just my preference to purchase brand new books as I'm "one of those people." Being a bit of a germaphobe the concept doesn't work for me as a primary customer but I respect this bookstore for catering to the majority of people, offering a great selection and more affordable prices given that they have already been gently loved and read. The staff were super super nice. They welcomed us the minute we walked in but also allowed us freedom to look and get adjusted to the space. I didn't feel like I was being watched or anything weird that can sometimes happen in book stores. The vibes were very laid-back and again friendly people work here. The only other bummer that was worth noting is since this place is popular and likely on the "must stop in Ojai" list or really for many book lovers a go to spot, there was some of those cringe vibes coming off of people who stopped in lol. Like this is a bookstore, typically there is a certain level of inside voices and focus that occurs in bookstores. However when we came, there were teenage/young adult girls getting a full on photoshoot taken with a photographer and everything lol. It was a bit distracting as they posed along the place, taking up seats or blocking bookshelves to get the perfect pictures lol. This occurred the entire time we shopped here. Hopefully the store gave their approval but if not, it kind of seemed fitting it would happen here given this spot is famous and of course picturesque. I love this spot for what it is, even though it's not my dream bookstore, I know it is for so many and I'm glad the community has a gem like this here.

Truly huge; I was expecting the books to be cheaper, but they had a lot of brand new books that were full price. Slightly a maze but definitely a fun spot for pics or to walk around.

Such a cute bookstore, you have to go see it for yourself!! I love the indoor/outdoor vibe of this place, it seriously seemed never ending for a while! There are aisles and aisles of books outside, with cute different books and crannies all over. I especially liked how the food and cookbooks were in an old school kitchen type of room. All of it was just so adorable and fun. Staff were very friendly and helpful as well, and there are books of all different types around, both new and used. You can easily find street parking to get here, and have a fabulous time perusing all the shelves and sections!

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.

Our favorite bookstore to shop at! Highly recommend for anyone driving through Ojai as it has great selection and a beautiful environment

What an unexpected, wonderful find during my first trip to Ojai! What a treasure trove of books, especially difficult to find books. I could have spent many hours here, but since I was traveling with others, I only spent 90 min. I beelined my way to the art and photography sections to see what gems were available. While there, I met a very knowledgeable staff member who asked if I needed help finding something and I quickly asked him about several classic photographers and artists I was interested in. I was very impressed with his knowledge of various genres and artists in that era. Another thing I really loved about this store full of wonderful books is that it was open air and that there were so many nooks and crannies of book genres to explore. I felt like I was on an adventure to discover new books to interest me. I so miss having a "real" book store to go to on a regular basis that's not a big box store; that has character; that smells like books; that has older, more difficult to find books; that has knowledgeable staff who are well-versed on so many topics; and that is interesting. I cannot wait to travel back to Ojai just to visit this amazing place!

What a great idea for have an outdoor/indoor bookstore! There is mostly used books and I have to admit it took a while for me to find something I liked, but that's only because I'm not used to this type of bookstore. The ladies working these were nice and helpful. The new books were inside the house. They have cute sitting areas that can be used to read a book or even take a couple of cute pictures. I found a book for a great price! I'll be back for more books soon.

Oh what a treat for bibliophiles! Barts Books lives up to its reputation for being a singular independent bookstore in the state/nation, and unique environment. The rumors were true- books available for purchase (even when they're closed!) lined shelves outside along the sidewalk. I spotted the cutest bookhouse,-ahem-birdhouse on the outside so our avian friends could enjoy Bart's as well. It only got more charming from there. Staff are informed and incredibly helpful, directing or assisting customers in finding the book they desire within the wondrous outdoor labyrinth of books . The location is great. We were able to find street parking easily. (The only drawback was they had no public restroom, so we had to drive downtown and fight for parking to find a place to use the restroom before perusing more books). Prices were reasonable and they have an extensive inventory. Oh such heaven!.

The best bookstore ever. It's so cool. They offer a wide range of books to super new books to used ones. I've bought a few books here at a great price, which I can appreciate. Come here if you are a book enthusiast. It is also outdoor as well which gives it a unique attribute.

A cool book store with a ton to see. I just wish I knew how to read. Thankfully they have some books with pictures.

Bart's Books and the people that work there are proof that goodness and virtue still exist in today's world.

We have been coming here for years. We are Ojai locals. Very disappointing today because the three woman at the front desk snapped at me when I asked if they could look up a book for me. One lady was sweet and tried to soften the blow of the other two who were downright vicious. My words. Who knew that a bookstore could be so mean. Never had that experience here before. Definitely seen a change in the attitude over the past few years. Well still lovely and quaint. Just very disappointing regarding customer service. One should be allowed to ask about a book shouldn't one? I wasn't really even able to get my sentence out before they snapped at me. Please train your staff to be kind. That's all it takes.

Cool little book spot. Service was fast and too attentive. Selection of books was diverse. Overpriced, I would expect them to be discounted, but, like most thrift hipsters items, they place a high market value.

Bookstores are my jam, and independent bookstores are even better. This is the best of the best. An absolute gem and a must-see when you're in Ojai. The entire property (formerly a residence) was converted to a bookstore. The books have been categorized thoughtfully by room, so you have music in teh garage (LOL), gardening books outside, cookbooks in the kitchen, and so on. There are shelves and shelves of books everywhere - it is almost inconceivable that you don't find what you're looking for here. And, from an efficiency perspective, you have to appreciate how well they have used every inch of this property. The perimeter is also lined with books, which people can buy after hours and deposit money on the honor system into the box. Super charming.

The store itself is pretty enchanting. As a book lover myself I would enjoy being here all day going around and browsing on books. It's bright and open and books are gently used. Yet, people who come here need to understand it is still a store not a library. This store I guess became more popular through the help of those people taking pictures there and sharing them on social media. Otherwise, no one would drive to Ojai to buy used books. I never knew of this place until I saw it on IG and was excited to check it out. With that being said, the gentleman who worked there this past weekend didn't seem to be as happy with us being there, We appreciated the place took pictures, looked around but he came to us twice like checking what we were doing and asking us "Is there anything I can help you with" in passing and never even cared for our reply. Because of that, we cut our stay short and didnt buy any book (which I was planning to do). I always imagined small neighborhood bookstores have friendly owners and staff who would talk to you about their books and make you feel like a family and encourage you to come back. This wasn't the case for this store and I hope it's not because of our color or anything. I hope the people who will come won't feel the same way.

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.

The coolest bookstore. It's all outdoors!!! And there are books on the walls outside, so even if the store is closed, you can grab books and pay for them by putting coins in a box by the door (cuz the ones outside are only 50 cents.) they have both used and new. I was pleasantly surprised at the selection- for example, there was a surprisingly large psychiatry/psychotherapy section. Got a therapy book used for $9 and a used copy of Anxious People (which was turned into a Netflix show) for 50 cents. Also, staff were so helpful. I asked about a specific book and the woman popped right off her seat and went to the two sections it may have been (they didn't haven't it). Anyways, on the whole: Super cool, such a fun and unique concept. Very Ojai. Also, easily walkable from the main strip. Probably like an 8 min walk.

Best book store in socal, the experience is everything. Love the selection and the outdoor feel to it. Highly recommend.

Wonderful and friendly staff, great selection of books at a generous price. By far the best book store in terms of selection and content. Must check out the antique book room.

I am a reader! And books can be so expensive nowadays! But these book are used it seemed like which I don't mind. And they are about anywhere from 3-7 dollars! score! The better shape books/hardcover are a little more expensive from 7-15 dollars. 15 dollars is the most I saw on a book! There is more books than you can think of. I could spend hours there! There's also outdoor areas to read and just hangout! This is a GREAT spot!

Not a ton of stuff to do in ojai but this can easily take up many hours! Massive used book section averaging five to eight dollars per book, as well as a section of brand new books priced at market value. Will definitely be back! They also have vintage books as well, priced more 7-10 dollars. Note that they don't allow dogs, even ones that can be carried

It's simply a fun , engaging indoor/outdoor bookstore with oodles of scrumptious used books. Plus, you can view and buy some rarities. It's all pleasantly laid out , laid back, and laden with wonderful reads. A great diversion while visiting Ojai.

I have been here a few years ago but never took time to write a review. What a lovely and one of a kind bookstore. Your trip to Ojai won't be complete if you don't stop by here. So many books to chose from and with great prices. Got a few books for $8 and under. They are used by in great condition. Great customer service as well. A must stop for me when in Ojai.

Owning a business in ojai isn't easy but this place definitely makes it look simple! After working in the Ojai valley for so long, you are bound to hear about Barts Books at least a few times. So checking it out for the first time I wasn't expecting anything crazy but I was definitely surprised. This place is a different approach to book stores and they do it in such a fun way, their selection was astounding and really easy to navigate. Also all their books were relatively priced considering they could be charging an outrageous price for what they provide, which is a relaxing environment filled with plenty of seating and a great staff behind the counter! Definitely going to visit again

This is such a cute little bookstore. They have a clever interior design. This shop is partially indoor and outdoor. They have all sorts of books and stickers. They have books in the outside of the store that cost about 50 cents as well as books indoors that are pricier. This is definitely a cool spot to check out.

Love browsing here. Could spend hours here and have. One of the best reasons to visit Ojai is Bart's Books. just wish I could afford to buy and carry more books.