Since 1933, El Corral Bookstore has served the students, faculty, staff and guests of Cal Poly in its educational mission. Located in the University Union since the Fall of 1970, El Corral Bookstore is one of the leading independently run bookstores in the country. Proceeds of El Corral benefit the University and it is part of the Cal Poly Corporation.

The Staff is comprised of 20 career and 100 student/part-time employees. In 1993, El Corral Bookstore opened its first satellite operation, Cal Poly Downtown on Higuera St. It offers Cal Poly clothing and gifts to the local community, alumni and visiting guests.