This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
SoCal’s Oldest Indie Bookstore Shutters Hastings Ranch Location
The exterior of a Vroman's Bookstore location.
(
Vroman's Bookstore
)
Topline:
Vroman’s Bookstore closed its Hastings Ranch location on Sunday after more than 20 years at the site, the company announced in a statement.
Why now: The company was unable to reach a new lease agreement with the property owner, according to a statement.
Why it matters: A dozen employees were impacted by the closure.
“While this development is unexpected and disappointing, we are most disheartened by the impact on our-coworkers,” the company said in a statement posted to Instagram. “Their dedication and hard work made that store successful, and we are forever grateful.”
The backstory: Vroman’s Bookstore was founded in 1894, making it the oldest and largest independent bookstore in Southern California, according to the company’s website. Vroman's majority shareholder Joel Sheldon said earlier this year his family is looking to sell the company.
What's next: Vroman’s said they’ll now be concentrating their efforts on making the Colorado Boulevard flagship store in Pasadena better than ever.
Sponsored message
Go deeper: Learn more about the best indie bookstores in Los Angeles.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
