Philosophical Research Society

Non-profit organization · Los Feliz

Philosophical Research Society

Non-profit organization · Los Feliz

3910 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Highlights

Discover a quirky hub of exploration at the Philosophical Research Society, where captivating lectures, an outstanding bookstore, and a welcoming community await.

3910 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 Get directions

prs.org

@philosophical_research_society

@cntraveler

"Tell me: What’s this place all about? What's L.A. without a little occult? Founded in 1934 by Canadian astrologer and all-around mystical man of mystery, Manly P. Hall, Philosophical Research Society is something of a tribute to the man himself. The library is chock full of Hall's esoterica accumulated over the years traveling as a mystic, containing some 50,000 books—a treasure trove of knowledge on obscure and rare religions and philosophies. Impressive, even if you're not about to hold a seance. What’s it like being there? When Elvis was going through his divine knowledge era, he sent Priscilla to Philosophical Research Society to do some recon. Charles Bukowski was married by Hall himself on the Society's campus. It's a historically protected building. So PRS is definitely a major hub of mystical activity. Be ready to stare into the abyss of knowledge. Who comes here? This is definitely a spot for believers of all stripes. Head in with an open mind, and you'll be welcomed with equally open arms. Did it meet expectations? The Society continues to be a cultural institution in L.A. The Hansell Gallery shows artwork by artists whose work has magical or occultist properties, and there are lectures, readings, screenings of rare films, sound baths, and other events nearly every day. So then what, or who, do you think it’s best for? Ideally, this is for those who have a penchant for the unknown. So dust off your badge, Agent Mulder, and dive into the obscure."

Philosophical Research Society — Landmark Review | Condé Nast Traveler

View Postcard for Philosophical Research Society

@cntraveler

"What's L.A. without a little occult? Founded in 1934 by Canadian astrologer and all-around mystical man of mystery, Manly P. Hall, Philosophical Research Society is something of a tribute to the man himself. The library is chock full of Hall's esoterica accumulated over the years traveling as a mystic, containing some 50,000 books—a treasure trove of knowledge on obscure and rare religions and philosophies (impressive even if you're not about to hold a seance). When Elvis was going through his divine knowledge era, he sent Priscilla to Philosophical Research Society to do some recon; Charles Bukowski was married by Hall himself on the Society's campus; it's a historically protected building and definitely a major hub of mystical activity. Be ready to stare into the abyss of knowledge." - Maxwell Williams

The 26 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles

View Postcard for Philosophical Research Society

Cierra Treloar

Google

we went to a screening here, it was cool and theres free hot tea available. i just got hot water. i want to come back and read

Mollie Hawkins

Google

Super cool place with really nice folks. The bookstore is great, too, need to come back when I have more time to browse.

Matt S

Google

Really interesting place, highly recommended for anyone interested in metaphysics, regardless of your personal beliefs, the provide a place to learn and access knowledge, there’s no bid to get you to believe or subscribe to any beliefs that may be presented in their varied lectures and presentations, they display many different art, literature, and philosophy inspired by various metaphysical belief systems. The book store and events are great, I really hope to get a chance to visit the library next time I’m in town.

Colin Kramer

Google

Really the greatest offering of events I’ve ever encountered. No other venue has such a myriad of mysticism. I have seen exhilarating Klezmer performances, fascinating lectures on Kabbalah and mythology, and lots of fun pop culture / movie screenings as well. Something for everyone, and always substantive content. They even once reformatted their campus in order to recreate an authentic, ancient Hebrew theatrical experience. Thank you to everyone that contributed to these unforgettable and passionate explorations of human nature.

Tigist

Google

This is such a grounding safe space for me. I'm super thankful they exist.

John Elser

Google

Magnificent library, wonderful bookstore, engaging and interesting lectures, and a friendly community of curious seekers! An excellent cultural center with an esoteric edge.

Caleb R

Google

Quite possibly the coolest library that I have ever seen. Thank you to the PRS! I spent 3 hours reading, and will be back! :)

cemre y

Google

This is very unique place , especially for LA. Go there and check out their collection of books

Adriana K.

Yelp

After years of passing by the building and wanting to check out what was inside I finally made it to an event last night. Went to a full moon soundbath and really enjoyed the experience. The host was really helpful when I bought the last ticket online and wanted to find room for my waitlisted friend. She communicated with me quickly via email and had space set up for us together in the room. We were able to borrow blankets if needed, but she did note beforehand to bring yoga mats etc. Most people came prepared with yoga mat, blanket, and pillow. The room smelled nice and she had meditative music playing before the event so you can get your head in the space - very incensy new agey - which I like. Kristin played crystal bowls for a solid hour. I zenned out and that hour went by fast! My first event at PRS was relaxing and a great way to center yourself for a new year. I was able to hit the bookstore on the way out and will need to come to spend more time in there. There was such a variety of books in there on so many interesting subjects you can get lost a bit getting into them. They had used books too. As I was leaving, someone had bought a book for $2! I am a bit confused as to the name of the place. I always knew PRS as Philosophical Research Society, but I saw signs saying Philosophy Religion and Science so maybe the name changed. They have a full schedule of events each month and an online newsletter. I showed my friend their event flyer about an upcoming architectural tour this month and she told me that it was built in 1934 in Mayan revival style. In any case - I like the vibe here and will definitely try to do more events in the future.

J S.

Yelp

PRS is not the institution for intellectual seekers that Manly P. Hall built; it is no longer a projection of Los Angeles' deep spiritual legacy. It now seems to be a bizarre community center of all things to everyone and nothing to no one. The last President had a sorted past (Google him), and the current leadership (all old and white) seem to be distracted by fiercely conforming to the social consensus of millennial wokism with an occasional "cool" cultural component sprinkled in. The quality of thought and leadership is gone; hopefully, someday, someone will take this place over and focus on bringing it back to Manly Hall's vision with respect and dignity, fulfilling the dream of a great man. For now, I will seek elsewhere.

Ana T.

Yelp

Wanted to attend an event to honor Pride Month. Adore the film Romeo + Juliet (Baz Luhrmann 1996). It was a win for me to find an event where I could view a screening of a fave film and also have a Q and A in one setting. CJ Kitten Miller was the event host/speaker of the evening. I sat front row. I appreciated being educated on the perspective of the film's "TRANS" theme and highlighting the various genders of the characters. I did exit the event a bit early...I wanted to stay longer but it was getting late. I will attend future Q+A's of similar topics.

Darrell D.

Yelp

I've always wanted to visit this place and just got the opportunity last week! It's a must-visit for fans of knowledge and the occult. Amazing library. I'll definitely go there again!

Bel P.

Yelp

I'd never heard of this place before! A friend invited me to attend an event here so I jumped at the opportunity to explore a new place. This location is on the corner of Los Feliz Blvd and Griffith Park Blvd. They have parking, but it's minimal and kinda hard to get to. After going around and around the block, I took the wrong way up and managed to park in the extremely cramped lot. I walked into the courtyard and I have to say it was pretty cool. There's a library with antique books on display. Most of them on the metaphysical and mysticism from what I saw. I felt like I was walking into Hogwarts. There's an eclectic gift shop with new and used books, jewelry and nicknacks for sale. There was a sound bath happening in one of the rooms upstairs, which lent to the atmosphere. I went to a book signing/ vaudeville type event here and that took place in the auditorium (which looks like a 1980s elementary school auditorium). The event was cool, and the performances were great. However, the people working here were very protective of the library and the space in general (understandably). I normally very much enjoy a bohemian atmosphere but there was something in the vibe here that was not entirely inviting. I felt like the whole group in attendance (of seasoned entertainment professionals) were being watched so that we didn't touch anything. The event was cool, but the space was crowded and a bit uncomfortable. I had to wait until most of the crowd left, so I could maneuver my car out of the parking lot. All in all, this place was an interesting experience. If you have an opportunity to check this place out, you should go for it. I recommend finding street parking if you can.

Cheryl C.

Yelp

This two stars is for the library and averaging in the bookstore (which moves up the rating). The library is a one star for me. The vibe was very unappealing. The bookstore was much better so, I would give that 3.stars vs the library. I heard about this place from some film writer/director interviewed on an LA Magazine podcast. I am a huge lover of libraries and a big reader. I never heard of this place prior to that interview so, I naturally wanted to check it out. I did not prioritize this journey. I think it was nearly three quarters of a year before I finally got here. This writer/director claimed to spend countless hours there and really sold me on at very least checking it out. I looked online and the photos gave me a very different impression than the one up close. I could not wait to jettison out of there. This is very rare for me as I was interested in digging into some of the spiritual subject matter etc.. Also, I love libraries and books in general. I did one quick lap that was less than three minutes and was out. I also parked down the street and around the corner. I made some effort to get there. I was not sure about the parking situation so, I made a walk of it (I try to walk as much as I can because although I run around 7 miles daily, it won't kill anyone to add another 10-15 minutes to your day if you are not in a rush... There were maybe six books not locked up. I get that many of the holdings are old or very rare but it was unwelcoming to me. Very cold and unappealing. I want to freely peruse the holdings so, this was not the place for me. I like to browse books freely as you do in most libraries. Nothing looked appealing in the slightest. I love libraries and particularly niche ones. I do tend to go to art related libraries like Brand and Art Center of Design in Pasadena. That said, I like to broaden my horizon. I had been meaning to go since I heard about it but I am always strapped for time. I made a stop at a gallery in Los Feliz and thought to set aside around an hour but did not need more than fifteen minutes and that was spent in the bookstore. I would not recommend this place to anyone.

Kelly L.

Yelp

I finally was able to attend an event here last night. I arrived early to get parking. There are two parking lot each with 25 spots. The library was open, which is hit or miss. So if you're hoping to visit the library phone ahead. PRS is actively also looking for volunteers and I would if I lived closer. The location is steeped in so much history and be sure to visit the bookstore too. The location is such an uplifting space. Everyone I encountered was an absolute pleasure and I'll definitely be back in October for Mitch Horowitz impending book release.

Emily C.

Yelp

Wonderful collection in the library and a beautiful campus. Wide, thoughtfully curated programming. Rich history and curious artifacts.

Simon W.

Yelp

Really weird experience here - the front counter lady was super standoffish and told us she'd let us know if there was somewhere we weren't allowed to walk. When we politely headed towards the second floor of the library she rudely stopped us and said we couldn't go up there due to insurance purposes. Maybe mention that from the get-go? What's the point in being open in the first place? Really weird, might I say unnerving vibes at this place. And not bad spiritual vibes either - just weird gatekeeping goth chick vibes. Hard pass.

Cristine N.

Yelp

Made the drive out to LA from Long Beach for this hidden gem - well worth braving the traffic to visit this beautifully kept library. Being new to Hermetic Qabalah and wanting to further my Tarot studies, this was a great place to see the source material for myself. We arrived before opening and actually met Greg Salyer, the President of PRS, who was very kind and welcoming. He invited us to the free lecture that night (offered almost every Tuesday), and though we were unable to make it this time, it will be a reason to return. If you are interested in learning more about religion, mysticism, the occult, spirituality, etc.. this library will definitely excite you. Though you can't just pull books off the shelf (they are locked), the librarians are more than happy to assist you. I was a little intimidated at first, but the librarian was very helpful suggesting a few books to get me started, even with what little info I could provide him (also, he had the books that were perfect for what I had been looking for already in his hands before I asked....synchronicity & definite magic!). Be sure to check when the library/bookstore are open before you come, and there is a parking lot available if you can't find street parking. Can't wait to return :)

Myung Jin K.

Yelp

This is a beautifully laid out but nevertheless, a bit of an odd/uniquely incense scented library filled with books on mysticism. My daughter and I attended their artist walk through of their current exhibition, which was very informative and thought provoking. It was also well curated. The friendly staff were very welcoming. They have a parking lot in the front and there is plenty of street parking in the neighborhood. Like or follow their Facebook page for future events.

Ashley M.

Yelp

A beautiful little campus built in the early 1900s by philosophers and mystic Manly P. Hall A meeting of diverse intellectuals on various topics from philosophy to esoteric knowledge (tarot and sound baths.) And an amazing bookstore full or rare and unusual titles. I don't know the exact hours for the bookstore you will have to check the website. There is a private parking lot too!

Miguel D.

Yelp

Super library and great free public lectures series. The negative reviews saying that it isn't open to the public are inaccurate and from years ago when they were briefly closed for restructuring.

Valerie L.

Yelp

So sad, went in to the bookstore today and was told the library and lecture halls are now closed to the public. The legacy that Manly P Hall left behind to the truth seekers is now only available to those truth seekers with the money to pay tuition! Horrible day in humanity

Tanner F.

Yelp

This bookstore has many of the works by manly p hall and other authors. Most the books are about spirituality and philosophy. I would definitely return for more.

charlie c.

Yelp

This place has been hidden in plain sight since 1939. It has gone through generations of huge popularity and even a dark age... I have news!!! The Renaissance at PRS is happening. I love the free lectures on Tuesday nights. Check the schedule .. Check the bookstore.. See the library. It's happening .

R P.

Yelp

I graduated from UPR with a Master of Arts degree in Transformational Psychology. This University provided me with a valuable educational experience; no, not in terms of how much I would earn based upon the knowledge I had acquired, but based upon my coming closer to understanding the mystery of the nature of reality. The accrediting agency, DEAC, has made such onerous demands on the University's programs that it has decided to cease offering degrees. This is a tragedy of enormous proportions; it is a threat to all liberal education. My undergraduate degree was in accounting and philosophy, and what I learned in the philosophy classes I took was a very important contribution to the success I enjoyed in the business world. This attack by accrediting agencies begs for a legislative solution that will ensure the continued viability of programs such as those offered by UPR

Manly H.

Yelp

Amazing library. You can get most of Manly P. Hall's works here. Decent bookstore too.

Brendan A.

Yelp

An amazing hidden gem. The library is Manly P Hall's personal collection. Open mon-Thurs 1-3pm. The school also offers accredited masters programs.

@cntraveler

Philosophical Research Society — Landmark Review | Condé Nast Traveler

View Postcard for Philosophical Research Society

@cntraveler

The 26 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles

View Postcard for Philosophical Research Society

Cierra Treloar

Google

we went to a screening here, it was cool and theres free hot tea available. i just got hot water. i want to come back and read

Mollie Hawkins

Google

Super cool place with really nice folks. The bookstore is great, too, need to come back when I have more time to browse.

Matt S

Google

Colin Kramer

Google

Tigist

Google

This is such a grounding safe space for me. I'm super thankful they exist.

John Elser

Google

Magnificent library, wonderful bookstore, engaging and interesting lectures, and a friendly community of curious seekers! An excellent cultural center with an esoteric edge.

Caleb R

Google

Quite possibly the coolest library that I have ever seen. Thank you to the PRS! I spent 3 hours reading, and will be back! :)

cemre y

Google

This is very unique place , especially for LA. Go there and check out their collection of books

Adriana K.

Yelp

J S.

Yelp

Ana T.

Yelp

Darrell D.

Yelp

I've always wanted to visit this place and just got the opportunity last week! It's a must-visit for fans of knowledge and the occult. Amazing library. I'll definitely go there again!

Bel P.

Yelp

Cheryl C.

Yelp

Kelly L.

Yelp

Emily C.

Yelp

Wonderful collection in the library and a beautiful campus. Wide, thoughtfully curated programming. Rich history and curious artifacts.

Simon W.

Yelp

Cristine N.

Yelp

Myung Jin K.

Yelp

Ashley M.

Yelp

Miguel D.

Yelp

Super library and great free public lectures series. The negative reviews saying that it isn't open to the public are inaccurate and from years ago when they were briefly closed for restructuring.

Valerie L.

Yelp

Tanner F.

Yelp

This bookstore has many of the works by manly p hall and other authors. Most the books are about spirituality and philosophy. I would definitely return for more.

charlie c.

Yelp

R P.

Yelp

Manly H.

Yelp

Amazing library. You can get most of Manly P. Hall's works here. Decent bookstore too.

Brendan A.

Yelp

An amazing hidden gem. The library is Manly P Hall's personal collection. Open mon-Thurs 1-3pm. The school also offers accredited masters programs.

Philosophical Research Society

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