READ Books Reopens in Cypress Park After Relocation
The independent bookstore has moved to a larger space following a significant rent increase in its former home.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Openings & Closings
Live Poll
Is it becoming too difficult for small local businesses to remain in your community?
After nearly six months of closure, READ Books has officially reopened at 594 West Avenue 28 in Cypress Park. The move follows the bookstore's departure from Eagle Rock after a proposed 133% rent hike.
Why it matters
The relocation highlights the ongoing challenges small businesses face with commercial rent spikes in Los Angeles. The owners are now using their new, larger space to introduce community events and pop-ups.
The new Cypress Park location is more than twice the size of the original 650-square-foot storefront. The bookstore operated in Eagle Rock for 19 years before closing for nearly six months during the transition.
The players
READ Books
An independent bookstore that served the Eagle Rock community for nearly two decades.
SNELAS: Save Northeast Los Angeles Shops
An organization established by the shop owners to advocate for small businesses facing commercial displacement.
The details
The owners discovered the new space after spotting a vacancy sign while driving, ultimately securing a location situated about 3 miles from their previous shop. They also formed a group called SNELAS: Save Northeast Los Angeles Shops, in response to the unaffordable rent terms.
Timeline
February 2026: Owners were notified of the proposed rent increase.
October 23, 2026: The bookstore held its soft reopening.
Market Landscape
This move reflects a broader trend of small retailers being priced out of legacy neighborhoods due to rising commercial real estate costs. By relocating to Cypress Park, READ Books joins other local merchants seeking more sustainable operational costs to maintain a physical presence.
Customers can now visit the bookstore at its new Cypress Park address, located approximately 10 to 15 minutes away from the old storefront. The expansion allows for new community events and pop-ups that were previously restricted by the limited space.
The takeaway
Small business owners often need to remain agile and keep a lookout for new opportunities to survive rapid market shifts. This transition demonstrates how local organizations can adapt by scaling their operations into larger, more affordable spaces.
Further reading
For more on local commercial changes, see the latest Openings & Closings.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Daily News.
Live Poll
Is it becoming too difficult for small local businesses to remain in your community?
