Libraries, Bookstores, & More: Ojai, CA
Bart’s Bookstore, Ojai CA
Ever wonder what would happen if you combined the beauty of orange groves, olive oil, and books? Well look no further than the inconspicuous town of Ojai, California. Once the home of the Indigenous Chumash Natives, like many Californian towns, Ojai belonged to Spanish colonialist prior to its inception into the United States. By 1837, the town was released from its Spanish settlers and became a cattle ranch, and saw a heavy settlement of new Californians by 1864. In the early 1900s, with the help of Edward Drummond Libbey, the town was reborn from its former Nordhoff name into Ojai—boasting a renovated town center, that was fitted in a Spanish Colonial Revival Style, that is still seen today.
Named after the Chumash Native word ‘Awha’y, which means “Valley of the Moon,” the picturesque town of Ojai is a gem for any bibliophile to enjoy—which could be found in the outdoor nirvana of Bart’s Book Store. When you walk towards the entry way, you are greeted with an abundance of books that line the entrance of this eclectic wonder, which contains a great selection of old and new.
The outdoor motif lends a sense of tranquility that isn’t always afforded to avid readers and book seekers—with the green of the vines and sunshine creeping through the open atmosphere, one could get lost in the calmness of the place, rather than the books that they seek. And despite being outdoors, the noise level within the store was very limited.
The architecture, although restrained in elaborate structural design and splendor, does not lack in its beauty. Ojai, which is nestled in the comfort of Ventura County, California, is afforded the comfort of beautiful weather that is often seen throughout the year, averaging only thirty-five days of precipitation yearly; this allows Bart’s to bask in the brilliance of gorgeous clear skies with its outdoor ornamentation, which seemed to create an enchanted forest of books. To add to its beauty, Ojai is surrounded by luscious orange groves that make you want to curl up with a good book and a tall glass of sweet tea; careful though, while you can look, many of the groves are on private property.
Kid-Friendliness:
As a mother of four, I will say that, while Bart’s has a generous selection of children’s titles to select from, I would urge parents to keep a watchful eye on their children, as the selections there could be very delicate to handle. For our brood, the atmosphere and outdoor illustriousness, along with the books, provided a sort of sanctuary for browsing that isn’t found in many bookstores and libraries. In short, it is truly an enjoyable experience for families.
Things to do with your books
While Ojai has a lot to look forward to for any traveler and bibliophile, as a family of foodies, we found ourselves at the mercy of the Ojai Olive Oil Company. Tucked in the depths of orange groves full and bright of oranges ripe for the picking, was the olive grove of Ojai Olive Company. While the husband and I were taken aback by their selection of tasty olive oil to choose from, our children were more interested in the number of hammocks and swings, that were sprawled across the property, which were perfect for a stop and good read. The picnic tables lent an opportunity to enjoy not only a great packed lunch, but a marvelous, tasty spread of olive oil that the Ojai Olive Company had to offer. While we were there, no one rushed us about, and we were able to enjoy the property for its beauty and relaxation.
Enjoying a much needed swing.
Ojai Olive Company Olives.
Make sure you stop by for a peek!
If you are taking a trip to Ojai without children, enjoy a glass of wine (or two) at Majestic Oak Vineyard and Wine Tasting. Its wine bar and tasting room possess cozy indoor seating, and great outdoor patio seating with a subterranean feel. The wine selection comes from the vineyard, that has been family owned since 2015.
Do you prefer a great cup of coffee and light bite with a new book? Below is a list of cafes in Ojai:
Enjoying a much needed stroll in Ojai.
Need a place to stay during your visit? Be like the many who have come before you and enjoy a relaxing weekend at one of these great spots in Ojai:
I hope you have a wonderful visit at Bart’s Book Store in Ojai, California—where the orange groves are plentiful, and olive trees cascade overhead to form a book lover’s dream.