Vroman's Bookstore
| Company type | Independent bookstore |
|---|---|
| Industry | Retail (Books) |
| Founded | 1894 |
| Founder | Adam Clark Vroman |
| Headquarters | Pasadena , United States |
| Products | Books, community events |
Vroman's Bookstore is recognized by numerous media outlets as the oldest and largest independent bookstore in the Southern California region.
Annually, the bookstore organizes more than 400 complimentary community gatherings, which include activities such as children's story sessions, trivia competitions, craft workshops, baking contests, and book launch celebrations. Over the years, it has welcomed distinguished guests including former Presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter, authors Irving Stone, Upton Sinclair, Ray Bradbury, David Sedaris, Salman Rushdie, Walter Mosley, Joan Didion, Anne Rice, Neil Gaiman, as well as public figures like Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Senator Bernie Sanders.
History
Established in 1894 by Adam Clark Vroman, the first Vroman's Book and Photographic Supply was situated at 60 E. Colorado Street in Pasadena, California. Mr. Vroman was deeply passionate about literature and committed to supporting his local community. In addition to his literary interests, he was an avid photographer known for capturing scenes of the American West and Native American portraits. Upon his passing in 1916, ownership of the bookstore was transferred to his dedicated long-term staff.
During the Second World War, Vroman's contributed books to Japanese Americans interned at nearby camps such as Manzanar in Owens Valley and facilitated their delivery.
In 2008, the store received the prestigious Bookseller of the Year award from Publishers Weekly, a leading international publication in the book industry.
The following year, Vroman's expanded by acquiring another cherished independent bookstore, Book Soup in West Hollywood, after its proprietor passed away and the establishment faced closure.
In 2020, due to a sharp decline in sales caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, Vroman's Bookstore confronted the threat of shutting down altogether.
References
External links
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- Bookstores in California
- Independent bookstores in California
- Companies based in Pasadena, California
- Companies based in Los Angeles County, California
- American companies founded in 1894
- Retail businesses established in 1894
- 1894 establishments in California
- Bookstores founded in the 19th century