Vroman’s Bookstore Closes Hastings Ranch Location Over Weekend

Vroman’s Bookstore, a cherished independent bookseller in Pasadena, permanently closed its Hastings Ranch location in Easy Pasadena on Mother’s Day, May 12.

The closure came after the store was unable to reach a sustainable new lease agreement with the property owner and faced increasing occupancy expenses, Vroman’s announced earlier.

“We’re going to miss them, and I wish more small bookstores like this would come back because it’s what the community needs,” said one customer to KCBS News. “I’d much rather buy our books from Vroman’s than get ’em off Amazon.”

The Hastings Ranch branch, located at 3729 E. Foothill Boulevard, had been serving the community for more than two decades.

“We’re very sad that it’s the last day for Vroman to be here in Hastings Ranch,” another customer told a local television station reporter while making one last visit with their son to pick out a final book or toy.

In January 2024, Joel Sheldon, Vroman’s longtime owner, announced his plan to retire and sell the company, which included the flagship Colorado Boulevard store, the Hastings Ranch location, and a second book-selling operation called Book Soup, in West Hollywood.

Sheldon aims to find a buyer who will preserve the bookstore’s legacy and align with its longstanding community-focused values, as part of a broader effort to ensure the bookstore’s future.

The closure affected twelve employees, who were notified in advance and encouraged to apply for positions at other Vroman’s locations. The company pledged to support these employees throughout the transition, acknowledging their hard work and dedication.

Customers shopping last Sunday were sad and resigned.

“I’m a big fan of independently owned bookstores, and it’s sad to see another one go in a world where everything is being chained,” a patron told KABC news. “The uniqueness of an independently owned bookstore is more and more valued.”

Despite the Hastings Ranch closure, Vroman’s flagship store on Colorado Boulevard remains open as the search for a new owner continues. Customers say they appreciate the store’s uniqueness and prefer supporting local businesses over large chains.

“I’d sooner come to a place like this than Barnes and Noble,” one customer told Channel 7 news. “Nothing wrong with them. It’s a nice bookstore, but I’d rather give my money to somebody who’s local, who’s a family business.”

Vroman’s Bookstore’s main store is located at 695 E. Colorado Blvd. in downtown Pasadena.