Black and Brown Folx Beware! Though the (rude) owner would disagree, I can state with confidence that my partner was racially profiled by the staff at Warwick’s today. After appreciating a clock located at the front of the store and returning it to its location, my partner and I noticed that she was being constantly watched by the staff, whispering to one another. She was repeatedly asked if she “needed anything,” which would have been fine the first or second time. She was asked four times, once asked specifically if she “needed help with the clock.” Mind you, we hadn’t been near that area for at least 10 minutes. By this point, we were uncomfortable. I held all the items I intended to buy in open view as my partner looked around the back for stationary. The staff continually watched her and eventually brought the owner, who accused her of stealing the clock, claiming that it was gone (it wasn’t). My partner, very upset by this point, offered to show her bag, which the owner looked through. After her fruitless inspection, she did not apologize, instead leaving my partner distraught at what she had just experienced. It wasn’t until five minutes later that my partner was approached by the owner and thanked for “being so calm about the whole thing.” My partner let the owner know that the whole interaction made her feel profiled as one of the few people of color in the store. To which, the owner replied, “But we have POC on staff,” as though that eliminates any possibility of wrongdoing. She never gave a genuine apology for the mistake they had made, instead stating, “I’m sorry IF we made you feel bad.” You did, Nancy. There are no if’s. All in all, I wish that the staff at Warwick’s would take some time to think through how they were in the wrong. Looking at some of the other reviews, we’ve realized that we’re not alone in our experience and wanted to share our story in case someone else ever goes through something similar. This is on you, Warwick’s. Your move.

A friendly fountain pen department at this fine bookstore. While vacationing in San Diego I decided to see if there were any fountain pen shops down here. While there is not a whole store (other than the Mont Blanc store), the fountain pen area of the Warwick's bookstore had a decent selection of Pilot, Sailor, Lamy pens, and inks including Iroshisuku and Noodlers! But this review is in favor of the kindness and patience of a relatively new employee James. This young man allowed me to try a Pilot Custom 74 in fine and medium so I could make a decision down the road, and a Sailor Pro Gear Slim (I get the love of the gentle feedback of the 585 gold nib) . I had also wanted to see and feel a Lamy 2000 and see if what they say is true, that though it looks almost like a cheap felt pen from a distance, to handle it, is a different experience. The number places do this kind of thing are getting few and far between. If your from LA there is Vroman's in Pasadena, and Flax Pen to Paper in downtown (there used to be Fred Krinke's shop in Monrovia... sadness). So it was great to be able to go to Warwick's and dip a pen into some Ama-iro and try it on my own paper. Back to the store clerk James. He is early in his fountain pen hobby, but clearly interested. I asked him what his favorite ink was. He grinned wide and said Noodler's Tiananmen. He explained that he first used a fountain pen in China where he grew up. I knew then that I needed to buy that ink. And every time I use it I will think of James and the bold slogan on the label: "One day, China will be free!". And the store should know, that even though I didn't plan on purchasing anything that day, because of James I walked away with a small purchase and a high view of the bookstore. Well done.

Warwick's is a bookstore lover's paradise, and more. The book selection is not large, but you can find a little of everything, and the selection of coffee table books is impressive. But there's so much more! If you're looking for fountain pens and iroshizuku or jacques herbin inks in a dizzying array of colors, or perhaps rollerball or ballpoint pens (from the very inexpensive to the fancy gift kind), you've come to the right place. If you want a sketchbook or journal for your next trip, Crane note cards, greeting cards or any kind, a globe, a set of French-made knives with colorful handles, cheese boards, wall clocks, or other nice gifts, you'll find it all there. The staff is friendly, the store beautifully arranged, the selection creative and extensive; in short, Warwick's is worth a visit (or two or three) next time you're in La Jolla!

This is the most wonderful bookstore. Family owned for over 100 years, it's supposed to be the oldest continuously run family owned bookstore in the US. It's also been voted #1 bookstore in San Diego, even though it's in La Jolla. I can vouch for that because San Diego itself really hasn't got any decent bookstores, which is weird for a city this big, and one with multiple universities. Anyway, you can spend a very pleasant hour or two in Warwick's if you love books and paper goods. Half the store is books and the other half is stationary, pens, notebooks, cards, and lots of writing stuff. Plus fancy wrapping paper and art supplies. It's a real treat. You'll love it.

This is one of the oldest bookshops in San Diego. It has over 100 years of history. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and helpful. I had a very interesting conversation about pens at the pen counter. The staff goes out of their way to help you find a hard to find book and will walk you over to where it's located. This kind of personalized service makes establishments like this a rare gem. And keeps people coming back. I love seeing what books the staff recommend; they are always on display. They always feature author signings and they don't just have books, there's a fair selection of gifts, toys, stationery, and art supplies at reasonable prices.

I visited October 4th and I still think about my bad experience at this bookstore and regret visiting. Their book selections is 5 star, sadly customer service toward families of color is 1 star. I will never return here. I was not just watched by one worker but three workers. One actively followed me around the store. I could go on and on, but I'll leave it at this. I've never been racially profiled at a bookstore before. They are my happy places. This experience left me sad and not wanting to support this store. Which I did not, I returned everything and left.

The absolute best book store in San Diego county! Did I say book store? It's so much more than that! They have artists' supplies, huge selection of puzzles, and oh my.... pens of every description. So many gift items that I could buy one for every occassion. I could spend hours on this place! They also have guest speakers and other events. The staff really know their stuff and have answers to any questions. The history of this oldest independent continually family-run bookstore in the country is fascinating!

Warwick's is a treasure. I love exploring the stacks with my kids, there is always something new to discover. Their travel section is also exceptional, with a huge variety of locations and travel guides for all types of travelers. Once you're done shopping you can have gifts wrapped while you look over their excellent collection of art supplies, notebooks, and stationary. It's fun from beginning to end. The employees are also wonderfully knowledgable, and passionate about the books they sell.

Magical and fantastic local book shop in La Jolla! So many books and recommendations to browse through. We stopped by to pick up some book “souvenirs” for our trip and found ourselves staying for a while just browsing. A darling childrens area—so many board books, picture books and graphic novels that I hadn’t seen before. My kids loved it, I loved it, and my husband who Carrie’s our books around loved it too. The staff was so friendly as well—and approachable. A must stop for book lovers.

One of the last remaining worthy independent book stores left in San Diego, Warwick's is worth your time and effort to stop by peruse their selection & shop. Extensive selection of books in all categories. I was delightfully surprised in their gift section. High quality gifts, totally unique items. If you're in San Diego do your best to visit this iconic store. Tonights guest speaker/ author Georgeanne Irvine. Guests stars Ruuxx, Raina and little Rue, co-stars their trainers!

Stopped by while visiting La Jolla - the store is well stocked and the staff recommended some great books as well as fountain pens. They have a wonderful selection of genres, paper and stationary. One of their fantasy recommendations was the name of the wind, a series which has since become one of my husbands favorites. With a lovely atmosphere I would stop by again on another trip and would highly recommend book-lovers or stationary enthusiasts swing by :)

I came by to pick up books I'd already paid for and the woman behind the counter still watched me as if suspecting me of theft. I guess it's suspicious if a Black person browses here? And then after I picked my books, she seemed to want to rush me out. I asked if there was a used book section (because I have too many books but can justify buying more if they're cheap enough) and I was directed to another bookstore. Hopefully they'll be a little nicer!

Warwick is a definite stop when we visit La Jolla coves. I love their jwerley and have got a few earings so far. I love their book selection. My husband and I spend some time sitting and reading parts of a book during our visits. The store has a lot of character.. They have lots of cool stuff, handmaid crafts and good selection of art supplies if you need sth quick. Staff are always nice, happy to help and generous with their great energy!

Great, family owned independent bookstore. They also sell a variety of knick knacks and stationaries on the other half of the store. Very cute. Came down looking for a book. They didn't have it in stock and offered to order it for me. 2 days later I got a call saying it was ready for pick up. Got there and staff quickly pulled it for me from the back and all still for the same price as the cover suggestion. Amazing!

Warwicks is one of the best book stores in San Diego. They have a very large selection of greeting cards, customizable stationery, pens, pencils, jewelry, gifts, trinkets and of course books. If you are looking for a graduation gift or simply looking to browse, they are bound to have something that will fit your needs. The store is kept very clean and organized, and the staff is very accommodating. Great place!!!

Lots of stock, some knowledgeable and helpful staff, as long as you come at the right time and counter. Definitely not what I was expecting from all the research online. Was hoping to find older and rarer books, but seems they've mostly evolved to slot into the Barns and Noble or Borders sort of niche with a wider array of stationary. Not bad by all means, just not what we were expecting and planning on.

Half of it is a gift shop, the other half sells books. It's well organized but not a particularly original selection. Very lacking in science fiction and fantasy, rather conventional on the rest. It felt like an average Barnes and noble rather than an indie store. Staff picks existed but had no description. It's good for the location, but that wouldn't fly in some other cities.

Warwick’s is a La Jolla (and San Diego) icon. Such an amazing bookstore! You rarely find places like this anymore. They have a wide selection of every type of book you could imagine. I picked up some great cook books! Mary at the checkout was really sweet. Everything was neat, but books were piled high. A very impressive store and a must-see if you are a reader or writer alike!

This a really fun place and just browsing the office supplies brings back memories of forgotten 90s school supplies. Remember those cool erasers you stick on pencils? We shopped for a nice pen and they have an amazing selection in the case. We were helped by a really great young lady who was patient with us as we must have tried out 50 pens. Hope this place stays open forever.

It's very nice gift shop many kind products it's so lovely. If you're in San Diego do your best to visit this iconic store.Always get my pens and notebooks/planners here. The best quality and selection.The staff was so friendly as well and approachable. A must stop for book lovers.The store is kept very clean and organized, and the staff is very accommodating. Great place!!!

We have to visit Warwick's every time we are in La Jolla. It has a great vibe and doesn't feel like any other book and stationery store in the world (other than the new Warwick's we visited at the San Diego Airport on our way home). They have excellent service, and my children never leave the store without finding something they didn't realize they needed before the visit.

Wonderful book store with wonderful staff. They have a great selection of many genres and even a great selection of popular children's books. It doesn't end there. Also, there are painting accessories, high-end pens, and other interesting hobby items for artists or crafting enthusiasts. Overall, it's a great store with many ways to entertain a slow, relaxing summer day.

This place has everything! From books to cards, plush animals and knickknacks, I could spend hours here looking through books, journals, arts and crafts supplies, and every pen you can think of! the staff are kind, knowledgable and ready to help with anything. Also a bonus! They have a gift wrapping section in the back with beautiful paper and ribbons.

I was visiting SD for the very first time and coincidentally found myself at Warwick’s. Glad that I did! I spent almost an hour in the shop enjoying the calming music in the background while trying to decide between the books. The selection was great and the entire staff was very helpful and cheerful. Thanks and hope to see you again soon!

I'm not much of a paper book reader these days, what I am however is a huge stationery nerd. My wife and I make it a point to swing by at least once every time we're in la Jolla as they often have strange and unusual pens and other related products. Definitely a niche type of place but if it's up your alley I'd recommend stopping by.

One of a rare breed now, the successful independent bookstores. This shop has a well curated selection of books on a variety of subjects. Even better the way staff are well versed and able to help you find almost anything you might be looking for. Help support independent book sellers, and well run small businesses like this one!

Probably the best book store in San Diego, still owned by the same, long-time family owners, located in the heart of La Jolla. They carry an eclectic mix of books and other publications and have a lively schedule of book and author events throughout the week. A truly great spot! Extremely friendly, helpful staff.

This place is amazing! It's a complete throwback to the days when bookstores were aplenty. Half of the store is books, and the other half are gifts ranging from stationary to jewelry boxes. There were a lot of witty mug cups, a cool grow your own desk plant kit, and just many nice little kink-knacks.

Weird little book store with lots of purses and craft stuff. They also sell candles and other random pictures frames. Etc. It's pretty pricey though. I was gonna buy a file folder with animal print to store my papers but it was $50. Target has the same, for $10. I guess when in LA Jolla.....

Its GREAT to see bookstores who are thriving in this electronic based world. The store was celebrating a milestone anniversary during our first visit. Despite the store being extremely busy two associates took the time to walk me through which fountain pen would be the best option for me.

Warwick's is the best! They have a wide and interesting assortment of books, a toy and puzzle section, a great art supply section with paints and brushes, and their pen counter is amazing. If you are a fan of nice pens, you will love it here! It's a great place to browse in La Jolla.

Really incredible store. I could have browsed for an hour. Books, gifts, office supplies, handbags, - so many unique and cool items. Only four stars due to the prices - many items were just too much. Might be back before Christmas - great place for a special gift.

Warwick’s is one of the last incredible local book stores left AND has gifts / chachkis / pens / mugs / stickers / endless creative imaginative goods to delight any and everyone. I’ve been coming here for years and will continue to. A true gem of San Diego!

We love bookstores that are not owned by big chains. We enjoyed spending time amongst the books and all kinds of whimsical finds for every occasion. The people were friendly, our kids discovered the kid's area, and we found books and arts&craft material.

My son and I visited Warwick's to check out their fountain pens. The gentleman there was extremely helpful and guided us through the entire process of selecting the perfect pen set. Great service, very knowledgeable and helpful. Thanks again Warwick's.

I absolutely LOVED this bookstore/ stationery/office supply store. It's very cozy and charming. They had a large selection of EVERYTHING you could think of! I got a jump start and chose next year's calendar already. I CAN'T WAIT TO GO HERE AGAIN!!!

Support an independent book store and feel good doing it! The staff was super helpful in helping my daughter find a stack of books, asking a bunch of questions about what she likes and who she has read. Make a point to stop here when in La Jolla.

It's a real live bookstore and gift and stationary shop! They keep a great variety of books, including by local authors. I've been shopping there for years and always love popping in. Check out their store in terminal 2 at the San Diego Airport.

This place is fantastic!!! Great book selection, SUPER knowledgeable staff! Seriously - these guys know so much about books its scary. I walked in today looking for a gift for my dad and ended up talking with a very nice girl who helped me

I love this bookstore/gift store! I never leave empty-handed! Their card selection is amazing and one of the few places that sells mobiles. They are always having author signing and talks - some truly amazing talent has been in that store!

The staff is wonderful and Jeff so kind. I had a problem with a set of markers I purchased and he took care of it quickly and easily. The entire staff is knowledgeable, polite and helpful. What a great selection of pens, books and gifts!

We love the fun selections here. We have counted on coming here for over ten years for books, office accessories, cards, small gifts. We especially love the organized and super fun kids section for books and character stuffed animals.

A classic independent bookstore. Not many of those left, so it's a treat to visit. Book selection is good, a few art and school supplies, assorted crafts, cards and souvenirs. Parking is impossible, of course... because it's La Jolla.

A bit pricey but one of the few independent booksellers in San Diego. Great selection of books, plus all kinds of gifts and stationery. Booksellers are well-informed, though not exceptionally cheerful. Warwick's also has many author

Detailed purchasing has lead to this one of a kind store. The book selection In outstanding. Definitely not your average bookstore. I love nature books and have never seen such a collection as varied and expansive as this store had.

Have made this bookstore in a while it's not really a bookstore anymore it's more of a stationary gifts oh and they have some books too. It's a shame but that's the way it is today I guess. I'll stick with buying things online

If you want a good book here is the place, you can find everything for adults and kids. Good idea to put outside a chessboard, you can play when you are waiting for someone. Bright green light for this bookstore in La Jolla.

Cute dual book store and stationary/gifts store. The book store was a little generic in my humble opinion, not much in the way of fantasy. Not my vibe in a bookstore, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have something for you!

Beautiful place. Philosophy section is disappointing. If you need wrapping paper, cards, beautiful pens etc this is the place. I get many Christmas presents here. Looking for a discussion of Kant's CPR, not your place.

Best independent bookstore! So many unique and interesting titles, super easy to stumble upon something new. Also, this ends up being my go-to gift shop for cards, last minute gifts that are thoughtful and interesting.

Great book selection. Customer service is stellar because they are nice, attentive, well read, and excited about helping one find their next best read. It's also a comfortable place to be.

I love Warwick's. It's a nice bookstore with pleasant staff and a great selection of gifts, office/school supplies, travel accessories, and journals. Whenever I'm in La Jolla, I stop in.

I loved how they showcased their books. They carried unusual gifts and a surprise item I purchased, was cheaper than this famous online store. It is an enjoyable experience in LaJolla.

Our favorite store for books, cards and gifts. Excellent selection and I love the staff recommendations on selected books - a book lovers paradise. Small but excellent gifts section.

t is fair to expect, I think, that a hallmark of a long-standing family-owned business, especially a bookstore, would be customer service. Alas, not so. At least not at Warwick's.

Love love love this shop! Always get my pens and notebooks/planners here. The best quality and selection. Plus people who work here are extremely nice and helpful! Highly recommend

Went to la Jolla for a day trip and bought a beautiful book which I then read in the park. Go there and support this exquisite local bookstore! :) All the best from Germany

A nice gift/books/toys/stationary shop in La Jolla. Many interesting things and trinkets can be found here. I visit this shop every time I visited La Jolla. Love this shop.

Warwick's is a fabulous store, part bookstore, part stationary, part gift shop. All curated to tempt your wallet. My favorite shop in all of Southern California.

Cool place, took wife who is a teacher & she could have spent 2 hrs inside. She bought pencils, pens etc. I liked that they offered signed copies of books.

I absolutely adore Warwick's. Staff is kind and knowledgeable and they're super dog friendly! One of the last small business booksellers in La Jolla …

Couldn’t ask for a better local bookstore. Friendly and helpful staff, great selection, and a helpful website for ordering items not in stock.

Super lovely place. I've been here many times since I was a child. My #1 place to get books, stationary, and other cool (but related) things.

The oldest family owned bookstore in the USA. Opened in 1896. Warwick's hosts many author book signings. This is a La Jolla gem

Near the beach The display is excellent and so fun, especially the children book section You can also look for cute toys here

Love Warwicks In La Jolla! Journal, Books, Art supplies, gifts, a fantastic variety of Ink Pens. Wonderful customer service.

Highly recommended independent bookstore! My pal and I have treated each other to birthday books here each year for decades!

Every time I come to this bookstore there is something new and exciting and I leave with my life being a bit more enriched!

Great book and stationary store. I love their great collection of items and books. Staff always so friendly and helpful.

A family owned bookstore store with large chess table and pieces where one can enjoy chess matches by the front door.

Lots of books! This store has a great collection of fiction. Many books have personal recommendations from the staff.

Everyone is extremely kind and the store is lovely. Not only can you buy books, it's also a great place for gifts.

Chill atmosphere. Trendy products, artistic vibe. High probability of stumbling into some interior design gems.

Very good store for stationary, books and art supplies. Helpful and knowledgeable staff, highly recommended.

I love this store! They have beautiful gifts, art supplies, and books. I stop in every time I'm in the area.

This store is beautiful with a wide variety of books, cards & gifts! I love going there. It makes me happy!

Cute old fashioned bookstore with great variety! Lots of books I have never seen at the chain bookstores.

I love this store. It's a whole vibe! Good books, awesome office supplies and other cool nic nacks.

Great bookstore! They've got awesome, up to date titles that are relevant to what I want to see.

Been here for decades, locally owned and much more than books. Great gift ideas are everywhere.

Great collection of books, great and friendly staff, the cutest bookstore in the neighborhood!

Beautiful shop, great seevice, great book selection. No rush! The perfect book store!

Great selection of books and other craft-y things! Fun to just go and browse :)

Lovely place to browse or buy a gift, a bit expensive, but it's La Jolla

Decent store. Huge with cards and gifts and other things. Nice location

Always a fun experience and a warm spot to just read and browse books.

Incredible independent bookstore! Nice selection of books and gifts.

Great staff that gives wonderful suggestions and a beautiful store

Great local bookstore and card and gift shop.

AMAZING! MUST-SEE IN LA JOLLA