Syndicate X Library – Hidden Gem in Downtown LA

Syndicate X Library, often called “The Narnia of Books” and “Willy Wonka’s Factory,” is a secret haven with 26,000 volumes. It’s more than just a library—it’s a place designed to inspire. Curated by Chris “Bulldog” Collins, this unique space also houses rare vinyl records and stunning artwork. Let’s take a closer look inside.

Jayne Turner – Staff Writer

The Front Room: A Space for Art and Fashion

This room is a gallery of photography, artwork, fashion, and design. It features shelves filled with hardcover books, many of which are signed. Collins’ favorite, A Shimmer of Possibility by Paul Graham, is particularly special to him for the emotions it evokes. Fashion fans will appreciate the works of designers like Rick Owens, Louis Vuitton, and Yohji Yamamoto. Collins is particularly fond of Rick Owens’ avant-garde, deconstructed designs.

The Presidential Hallway: A Tribute to Leaders

As the name suggests, this hallway celebrates presidential history. Display cases hold memorabilia, including a Reagan Bush ’84 hat, limited edition books by Barack and Michelle Obama, and a large collection of works by first ladies. One of the standout pieces is a special inauguration edition of Profiles in Courage by John F. Kennedy, available only to attendees. There’s even a set of matches from the Lincoln era. The one non-presidential piece is a collaborative artwork by Collins and Rick Reuben.

Explore the wonders of Syndicate X Library in Downtown LA—a secret haven of books, art, and leadership treasures, lovingly called “Narnia.” Step inside!

The Photo Op: A Selfie Spot Like No Other

This corner of the library features special edition books, such as The Art of War by Machiavelli and Getting Rich by P.T. Barnum. The shelves, with their carefully arranged, uniformly colored spines, provide the perfect backdrop for group photos and selfies. A comfy reading chair invites visitors to relax, strike a pose, and capture the moment.

The Kitchen: More Than Just Coffee

Chris Collins understands that great food and drinks enhance the library experience. The library includes a full kitchen with all the essentials stoves, a microwave, ice maker, and even a retail-sized drink fridge that’s always fully stocked. The highlight is a top-tier espresso machine offering over 20 different drinks. Collins ensures that guests enjoy the finest coffee, with special beans flown in from Seattle.

The Library: A World of Books

Step inside the heart of the library and you’ll be greeted by a life-sized bronze statue of Abraham Lincoln. The space is filled with artistic elements, including two massive tree trunks that appear to grow up through the room. These trees are an homage to Virgil Abloh, one of Collins’ favorite designers.

Instead of using the Dewey Decimal System, Collins organizes books by genre and author. Some of the collection’s highlights include:

Rock and Roll, featuring a signed Ozzy Osbourne book.
Fashion, with books on Rick Owens, fragrance, and textiles.
Mythology, alchemy, and magic.
Business, psychology, and personal development.

The library also boasts a rare collection of Time Magazine’s “X” covers, issued only for “major enemies.” These covers have appeared just five times in history, including after Adolf Hitler’s death in 1945.

The Vinyl Collection: A Music Lover’s Treasure

Collins, a former professional drummer, has curated a small but powerful collection of vinyl records. The albums reflect his passion for music and audiophilia. Although still growing, the collection offers an exceptional listening experience, with sound quality that must be heard to be believed.

Virtual Tour: Explore Syndicate X Online

Want to explore Syndicate X Library from the comfort of your home? Visit the Syndicate X Library YouTube channel for a virtual tour guided by Chris Collins himself.

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Author: Jayne Turner is a freelance writer from Orange, California. She has a bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience with an emphasis on language and cognition. She has ten years of musical theatre experience and a lifelong love of reading. Utterly excited by the brain, she brings a fresh Gen Z perspective to the topics that intrigue us most.