Do It. The Daily Planet.

This was an excellent find by Leslie. A very cute bookstore/vintage card shop/last minute gift store, The Daily Planet on Franklin has very cute little items for birthdays or just gifts for no reason at all.

I love stationary and sending people snail mail, and the other day I found the perfect birthday cards here for a few people as well as a series of blank cards from Edward Gorey -- not exactly something you can find at any card shop.

Their choice of magazines are also pretty impressive, and although I came here looking for one specific item, I ended up leaving with a full bag of goodies.

The Daily Planet is located 5931 1/2 Franklin Avenue.

-- Lauren Williams

Check It. Family.

This is one of my favorite LA bookstores, Family on Fairfax Avenue across from Canter's Deli. Despite its tiny storefront, it's filled with excellent books, obscure artsy films, photography and comic books, music, and even has a gallery in the back.

Every time I come here I end up reading the first page of at least five or six really amazing sounding books, and regret when I have to leave.

They usually have several compilation books, including back issues of McSweeney's and the Best American Nonrequired Reading Series, as well as various Bukowski, Fante, Murakami, Sedaris, Miranda July. Basically any good book you may have been looking for is probably here. Each title that's for sale here is hand selected and must meet rigorous standards before getting placed on Family's shelves.

They also have really interesting movie titles from all around the world, and a good selection of CDs.

They also collaborate with CineFamily at the Silent Movie Theater and often have shows and literary events.

Family is located at 436 N. Fairfax Ave. and is open noon-9 p.m. daily.

-- Lauren Williams