Los Angeles has long been home to mystics, far-out spirituals, and occult practices. The Philosophical Research Society has been at the center of the city’s occult since its inception in 1934.

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Founded by scholar Manly P. Hall who traveled the globe amassing esoteric texts and artifacts, PRS is a hub for “the ensoulment of all arts, sciences, and crafts.” Even for those who aren’t trying to tap into the spirit world, the library of the Philosophical Research Society provides a wealth of information on obscure, rare religions and philosophies.

The society has long attracted recognition. Elvis Presley was a fan and sent his wife Priscilla on a fact-finding mission. Charles Bukowski was married by Hall on the premises. A ring belonging to Rudolph Valentino from The Son of the Sheik hides away in their collection.

The library is non-circulating, as it is solely a research facility, but deep-dive classes and events abound on the storied grounds and online, keeping today’s seekers hungry for more.