Linden Tree Children's Books — Local services in Los Altos

I know that covid is taking its toll on small businesses so when my 2 y/o son lost his ABC book that we read everyday the linden tree was the obvious choice to find a replacement! Especially considering I’m a life long Los Altos hills resident since 1979 and have been purchasing books from them since I was in grade school at Bullis and they were located at their old location down on 3rd and State street. Unfortunately, I think I will now be purchasing my books online as it seems they have forgotten their local small business roots.

Today I showed up with my 2 year old in tow both mask up per SCC recommendations and opened the unlocked front door only to be met by a woman stating that the store was closed.

I stated “No worries, Is there anyway you could grab me literally any kids ABC book for my son and I’ll give you cash at the door here and you can even keep the change.” I was shocked to be told no and that the person I was speaking with was building a display. Ok, no biggie, but there were at least two other folks floating around behind her that might have been able to help out. I guess I’ve been spoiled by the other small businesses here in town like Henry’s Los Altos Hardware or Rick’s, you know places that always seem find a way to make you a customer or keep you a customer by providing excellent small business customer service!

It’s the little thing that keep a small businesses customers loyal especially with online and big box store options. I mean I’m at your door in the middle of a pandemic with a mask on my kid and myself because I’m trying to support my Los Altos businesses. I would have been way less effort for me just to sit in my living room and punch a few buttons and have book delivered to my door in three day or less but alas there I was! Anyhow, I digress. I guess I’m just trying to echo that age old parental sentiment...

I’m not mad, I’m just...

A bookstore with a fabulous toddler section. They had a cute little black couch that my 3 year enjoyed sitting on. We primarily focussed on the picture books section that's against the wall. All the on display books (probably selected by the staff) were excellent. The staff was super knowledgeable and seemed genuinely interested in hanging around there.

The restrooms were clean. They even had one of those junior potties that my toddler was accustomed to using by herself. Was pretty cool.

They are also directly facing a Baskin Robbins. Kind of hard to go wrong planning an afternoon of reading and some...

This is a splendid store, and popular, as there were lots of customers and activity while I was shopping there. The store sports a unique and large collection of children's books (and a smaller but thoughtful collection of books for grownups too). The staff was super friendly and patient, and the owners are uniquely passionate folks. From the street, it's the best looking store in the whole downtown! Kids and their parents will find this to be a great place to actually experience books before buying them, something lost in the online experience. Linden Tree Books is a...