Barnes & Noble — Local services in Santa Monica

My family and I treasure our visits to bookshops, especially for finding new books, birthday presents or simply browse their alleys seeking for classics. In Santa Monica, Barnes & Noble has become our preferred destination, especially given the scarce number of bookstores in downtown nowadays. The Barnes & Noble location on 3rd Street Promenade is a delightful addition and stands out as a phenomenal success.

Though it is somewhat smaller than their typical stores, this quality actually enhances its charm, making it feel more authentic and welcoming.

The layout, with two floors, thoughtfully caters to diverse interests. The lower level is wonderfully suited for younger readers, featuring a selection of toys and an impressive, well-curated collection of Mangas that we particularly enjoy. Despite its more compact size, the store does not compromise on variety, offering an extensive range of books across different genres.

What truly sets this location apart, however, is the staff. They are incredibly helpful and friendly, contributing to a sense of customer intimacy that is sometimes lost in larger spaces. It's clear that the cozy atmosphere of this smaller space fosters a closer connection between the staff and patrons.

In summary, our family's experiences at the Barnes & Noble on 3rd Street Promenade have been nothing short of wonderful. It's a gem of a bookstore that we'll continue to visit...

Two years ago, as we all waited in line to check out whichever book it was that day, the rain crashed down. It was so sudden that the entirety of the lobby, and it was crowded, stopped to look up, all of us expecting the glass walls and ceiling to be halfway down its fall upon us.

Two years prior was the last time I had visited a Barnes & Noble. I purchased a trilogy, and, I can’t even remember which, that’s not the point. But, books were on sale this day because the location was closing. Nobody came in for the paper anymore. Is that a good thing?

The owners had directed staff to mark all book bindings with permanent ink to indicate this price. But these were hardcovers, classics, meant to be read over and over and printed only once. Enjoyed, loved, a piece of art bound front to back without the permanent scarlet letter.

Does an e-reader use less resources than a book?

No. It’s just that we can’t sustain the...

I was having a lovely experience here for the first time. It was nice and quiet with classical music playing. I went in to buy some activities books and ended up browsing some Lego as well. As I was about to head to the register and check out, an employee with blond short hair and glasses asks me to take all items out of my bag and put it into a mesh Barnes and nobles bag. That’s when it clicked to me that I was being accused of stealing. I complied, emptied out my bag, there was nothing from the store in my bag. and looked at her and the other employee really confused. All she said was “oh it must have been placed elsewhere.” No apology and it really shook me up and made me feel embarrassed and guilty for something I...