FAQs

Where does Bart’s get its books? 

Of the used books in the store, most of them are bought from the public via our trade credit system. We always welcome donations. We buy new books directly from publishers and distributors. If you’ve written a book and want us to consider stocking it in our new book section, fill out this pitch form.

Are dogs allowed?

With increasing visitors, we saw both pets and guests have uncomfortable and unsafe experiences and had to make the unfortunate decision to disallow pets.

Can Bart’s find me a specific book?

Due to the nature of used book stock, we DO NOT have a catalogue/ inventory of the books in the store. However, our employees have extensive knowledge about the books that go on the shelves and can point you in the right direction based on a book's author, subject matter, and publication date. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, we’re always available to special order you a new copy and can ship worldwide. 

So, what does an outdoor bookstore do when it rains?

Almost nothing. Bart’s uses a system of tin sheeting to protect our books year round. Combined with the Ojai Valley’s dry and mild climate, we’re able to operate as normal during our (limited) rainy season.

Who is Bart?

Richard “Bart” Bartinsdale opened the bookstore in 1964, and has since passed away. The indoor section of our store is built from Bartinsdale’s old home. Read more about Bart here and in this LA Times article here.

Do you serve coffee?

Short answer, no.
Long answer, a few years ago, a blog post wrote about us as a “bookstore coffee shop” despite the fact that we have never served coffee. We’re not really sure why this article credited us as a coffee shop, but we want to clear up the confusion: we do not serve coffee.