Browsing in bookstores for mental health--a romantic's field guide to independent bookstores in Southern Orange County, California

A ROMANTIC’S FIELD GUIDE TO
INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORES IN SOUTHERN ORANGE COUNTY

Have you finished lunch but yearn to feed the soul? Indy bookstores have intangibles that satisfy our urge to share the human experience. To suite your fancy, the indy bookstores fall into categories. There are café bookstores, bookstore-gift shops, and metaphysical bookstore-supply shops. Regardless of the type, independent bookstores are gathering places, each with their own individuality.

Lido Village Books, 3424 Via Oporto, Newport Beach, CA 92663,
949-673-2549, lidovillagebooks.sbcglobal.com-- Just before the bridge to Lido Island and forest of masts on the harbor, The Lido Village Bookstore is nestled within other picturesque shops on Via Oporto, a cobblestone walkway. Browse, read, and soak up the ambiance inside and outside at a table and chairs. Chat with the owner, Dan Schmenk, who is plugged into everything going on in books, around town and the world. Dan will special order and ship anywhere.

Martha’s Bookstore, 308 ½ Marine Ave, Balboa Island, CA 92662, 949-673-7185, marthasbookstore.balboaisland.com-- You’ll enter a lovely patio garden. Peruse bright outdoor racks. When you step up and into the bookstore, you’ll be greeted with a complimentary glass of champagne or iced tea. Enjoy a collector’s dream of kites, flags, artful cards, candles, calendars, piano CD’s, created by owners Stephanie Thomas and Kathy Wales. You can select from a vast array of books for rent or purchase. Martha’s will place special orders and ship worldwide.

Crystal Cave Books, 891 Baker, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, 949-673-2549, www.crystal-cave.com-- Within, you will find an array of metaphysical books and a wonderful selection of products for Pagan and Wiccan clients practicing their craft. Owners Karen Tate and Barbara Rapp encourage personal growth with on-site classes and psychic readings. From a high shelf, a huge amethyst geode almost looks like a cave entrance!

Visions & Dreams Emporium, 2482 Newport Blvd. Costa Mesa, CA, 92627, 949-650-6929. --Owners Suandra and Joe Newberry enable their clients to empower themselves with books and supplies that support spiritual practices. Zen, the appreciation of daily life, is not a religion and fits nicely with any religion. Visions and Dreams is located right next door to the Orange County Wellness Center.