The reason why Borders and Barnes and Noble are taking over is because they can handle things like shipping books. I get why people love this store: it's an independent in a sea of conformity. ... More

The reason why Borders and Barnes and Noble are taking over is because they can handle things like shipping books. I get why people love this store: it's an independent in a sea of conformity. What it lacks, however, is the ability to compete effectively online. Witness my recent experience, never got any email regarding status of my order, it sat in a 'pending' queue for 5 days until I emailed them. After requesting a credit for shipping, was told they would do essentially nothing. Not the kind of customer service you expect from an independent bookstore -- more like something you expect from B&N, and even then, they would give you something for your inconvenience.
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I used to rave about Vroman's, but don't except any rave reviews from me anymore. Just in the last two weeks I had to twice leave the store very dissapointed. Two weeks ago I took the time out of my... More

I used to rave about Vroman's, but don't except any rave reviews from me anymore. Just in the last two weeks I had to twice leave the store very dissapointed. Two weeks ago I took the time out of my schedule to go all the way to Vroman's (I live about 10 miles away), because according to their website they had the book in stock that I was looking for. On arrival I couldn't find it, because they didn't have it in stock! They could order it for me though, but no thanks, Barnes & Nobles seemed like a better and faster choice, since they always seem to have what I am looking for. If only they weren't located in old town, I wouldn't ever consider going to Vroman's (easier access). Then just today I decided to give them another try. Straight from my work in Pasadena I decided to stop by, since it is only a small detour. I had my 10 week old tiny puppy with me though, and leaving her in the car in this heat was not an option. They simply refused me access! No dogs. I am allowed to carry her into Starbucks, but not a bookstore?? Even though I told them it would only take 5 minutes and she would not leave my shoulder, they wouldn't allow me in. I guess that from now on I will have to take my business elsewhere. And my referrals. Pros: Easy access Cons: Inaccurate website, bad customer service, not dog friendly
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The last of the GREAT story time readers is here in Pasadena at Vroman's Book Store. He is only at the Colorado Blvd. location on Wednesdays and Saturdays. I love the fact that he is a he. It's so... More

The last of the GREAT story time readers is here in Pasadena at Vroman's Book Store. He is only at the Colorado Blvd. location on Wednesdays and Saturdays. I love the fact that he is a he. It's so good for my son to hear stories read by a man.... And done so with great expression and wit!!!! You won't be disappointed if you take your kids to hear him read. YOU will enjoy him, too. I hope Vroman's keeps him there FOREVER!
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There are 2 Vroman's stores in Pasadena. The larger store on Colorado has a good selection of books and helpful staff. However, I have *never* had a positive experience at the smaller Hastings... More

There are 2 Vroman's stores in Pasadena. The larger store on Colorado has a good selection of books and helpful staff. However, I have *never* had a positive experience at the smaller Hastings Ranch Vroman's store. The staff rarely if ever knows the books on their shelves and they often give me a blank stare when I ask for assistance. This store has a limited selection of titles with a staff that is unhelpful and the supervisor in the store was downright rude when I needed assistance. I will NEVER go back to the smaller Vroman's store due to the rude supervisor. I may even do my book shopping at Amazon now, at least I don't pay sales tax, often get free shipping, and get better help from Amazon online than I do from the supervisor (Phoenix) and sales staff at Hastings Ranch Vroman's. I would never go back to the Hastings Ranch Vroman's. Today another customer happened to tell me out of the blue how rude and unhelpful the smaller store is. If you are used to good customer service at the main store, you will be in for a serious and negative shock at the smaller Hastings Ranch store.
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Love, love this place: best postcards, invitation cards ever, beautiful gift wraps, best gift bags, great books, and helpful staff too. Pros: service, accessories, books

Love, love this place: best postcards, invitation cards ever, beautiful gift wraps, best gift bags, great books, and helpful staff too. Pros: service, accessories, books
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This bookstore has, easily, the best selection in Los Angeles. There are popular books mixed in with obscure finds. I like this place because it is a welcome breath of literary fresh air from the... More

This bookstore has, easily, the best selection in Los Angeles. There are popular books mixed in with obscure finds. I like this place because it is a welcome breath of literary fresh air from the Barnes & Nobles further down the block. I also like the newsstand right outside. Makes me feel so metropolitan.
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There is nothing about this store which is not the best in Los Angeles. Support your independant book store.

There is nothing about this store which is not the best in Los Angeles. Support your independant book store.
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i went in here the other day and ended up leaving with a few books. they have a large selection and the store is very inviting- the perfect place to spend some time in. i was looking for a book... More

i went in here the other day and ended up leaving with a few books. they have a large selection and the store is very inviting- the perfect place to spend some time in. i was looking for a book and one employee helped me find it. he was very friendly and very knowledgable. the cashier was also very friendly. plus they will donate i think 10% of what you spend to your choice of one of several chairities.
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I love purchasing or just browsing books that I might be of interest of in this place. They have a huge slections of books and if you can't find what your are looking for, they will gladly look it... More

I love purchasing or just browsing books that I might be of interest of in this place. They have a huge slections of books and if you can't find what your are looking for, they will gladly look it up for you.The staffs are helpful and friendly. There is also a small cafe next to the bookstore for you to purchase a drink.
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Vromans has the selection of similar establishments such as Barnes and Noble and Borders but with a more personalized touch. They offer many books in obscure categories and also have a large... More

Vromans has the selection of similar establishments such as Barnes and Noble and Borders but with a more personalized touch. They offer many books in obscure categories and also have a large selection of toys, including Brios. Often, they have authors come in for book signings. Most book prices are MSRP and they are able to special order books. Their customer service is very friendly and knowledgeable, who never hesitate to recommend a good book to you. Parking is average as the lot isn't very big, but you will probably find a space if you're willing to take a short walk.
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