When Duttons Brentwood Bookstore closed on April 30, 2008, many Brentwood residents were crestfallen. With Diesel’s opening in early December of the same year, though, Brentwood residents took hope.
“With Dutton’s having closed, the neighborhood wanted, and needed, an independent bookstore to provide them with books,†explained Diesel owner John Evans. “We thought it was a great match.â€
Diesel, A Bookstore, located in Brentwood Country Mart on the corner of 26th Street and San Vicente Blvd., is one of three branches; the other two stores are in Oakland and Malibu. After a struggle to spread the word about the new branch, business has started to increase.
Evans feels optimistic about the new Country Mart location.
“I think it is a dynamic formula for providing excitement, convenience, and community all in one,†he said.
As a general bookstore, Diesel carries a wide range of books of all subjects.
“We try to bring the best of what’s out there, with as much variety and quality as we can,†Evans said.
As more former Duttons customers discover the newest and only independent bookstore in Brentwood, they’re beginning to discover the depth and care of the employees at Diesel, too.
“We are very passionate about books and about bookselling, wanting people to get the best information, the most satisfying reading experiences, and the most transformative art in their hands as we can,†Evans explained. “Imagination, curiosity, and aesthetics are highly valued at our store.â€
