Arvida Book Co. — Attraction in Tustin

I have to say that I am so incredibly thankful to discover this amazingly beautiful store here in Old Tustin!! I drove by about a week ago and first saw it and thought I would come check it out. THEN, I read online that it was one of the only stores in Orange County that had signed copies of Dave Grohl's new book Storyteller. Unfortunately, the signed copy was sold, BUT!! I WAS ONLY TOO HAPPY TO BUY A PRESALE ticket for the next shipment of regular unsigned copies. However, because of the location, and because it is the only store around the OC that has the special "vibe" I would love to see if Dave Grohl would do a in store? Maybe a very special limited engagement type thing? Anyway, I met Sam and her husband Mike and they are some of the most neighborly people who you'll ever meet. Super fun to chat with! They have it all here, used books, new books, coffee, couches, cool music, a place for the kids to read, a gorgeous patio, ambiance, and fine writing materials to help you research, read, and create your own great novel!! I told them that I might set up a beanbag in the back and camp out!! Well, if you're like me and love these kind of places to hangout in, you're certainly NOT going to get that at B&N. Nope, you have to come here and feel at home. Book nerds as well as anyone looking for refuge should find this a nice island to escape to....if even for just an...

Arvida is truly one of the best bookstores I’ve been to (and I’m a librarian and go to a LOT of bookstores)— because it’s far more than just an amazing independent new and used bookshop. It’s a space for community building, holding author events, book clubs, Fix-It fairs, and is just generally one of those places where you go in and find a friend even if it’s your first time in. True story: I walked in on their first soft opening day in 2020 and the owner is now one of my closest friends. She’s spearheaded community projects, is always the first to uplift others, and gives great book recs. The coffee bar is excellent, too. Nothing better than sitting in their sunny front windows with a hot mug of chai and a book, or watching the bustle of Old Town. Highly, highly recommend Arvida and Tolima. They also have amazing rare book finds that change frequently— perfect for a gift for someone who seemingly has it all— and it always has a...

I love this place! They have a fantastic selection of new and used books, a magical children's book section, a welcoming patio out back, chess sets out front, comfy seating inside, and goods from local artisans for sale. They also have a great coffee shop inside called Tolima Coffee Co. where the co-owner Mike makes great drinks. Arvida is the definition of a small business; the owners Sam and Mike are always available with a book recommendation and a smile. They will order any book for you that they don't already stock, and host several community activities every month, including Fix-it Fairs, calligraphy classes, book and movie clubs, creative writing classes, art clubs, book readings, and so much more. In a world that seems to get more impersonal and automated every day, Arvida is a breath of fresh air. It's a community hub as much as it is a business. You'll...