After a short and sweet February, nothing’s better than visiting a warm, cozy bookshop Downtown; soothing light pink-painted walls are adorned with posters of beloved tales, and shelves are lined with all the newest hits and timeless classics throughout every genre–especially romance. Judging by the Cover Bookstore is a haven for anyone interested in the small-town indie bookstore dream. Being a woman-and-Latina-owned business, Judging by the Cover’s goal is to make every customer fall in love with reading through carefully curated shelves, fun activities such as card decoration and book bedazzling, and more. Behind the doors, there’s a community and story that’s just as swoon-worthy and heartwarming.
To the owner, Sara, Judging by the Cover means community. “Not only are we a bookstore,” says Sara. “We offer opportunities for connection.” She emphasizes that the bookstore supports protests and rallies that align with its values, fostering a safe space for everyone, no matter where they come from. Ultimately, Sara’s ongoing mission is to “make sure people feel seen and supported.” She emphasizes the importance of a local independent bookstore, mentioning her love for supporting small businesses. “As much as I love Barnes and Noble,” Sara contemplates. “I really wanted to shop at a small, independent bookstore…There’s nothing local, and so we were really in need of something in San Dimas.”
Sara continues to reinforce the community through free events and local representation. “We have lots of events that cater to different interests,” says Sara. Judging by the Cover offers craft workshops, an innovative way to connect with fellow bookworms. These workshops help bring people together through creativity and support. Sara is also very in tune and observant with her customers. “The way that I stock our shelves is based on eavesdropped conversations and listening to what our customers like,” mentions Sara, prioritizing her customers over what’s already popular. According to her, Judging by the Cover is a snapshot of what the community loves. Adding onto well-known reads, Sara never forgets to highlight local authors. “We have to lift each other, support each other. That’s my number one goal in curating the space.”
The bookstore’s aesthetics are no joke, and within its coziness lies wonderful inspiration. All of the twinkling lights and comfortable sofas are part of Sara’s personal style. “I wanted it to feel like Sex in the City meets Pride and Prejudice,” remarks Sara. “To me, both those media are just, like, the epitome of coziness and fun.” She also mentions that she wants Judging by the Cover to be a place where people come together and hang out. With carefree, good vibes plastered all over the store, it is the perfect spot to hang out and catch up on a good book.
Judging by the Cover Bookstore is vastly different from your local Barnes & Noble: both bestseller and indie authors are represented, the vibes are just right, and the community is as familiar and loving as it gets. Without a doubt, this new safe space perfectly executes how reading should feel–cozy, creative, and united with one another through a love for literature.
