Bookstores in Ontario
Last change:
8 Sep 2008
============================================================================
Cities (listed geographically east-to-west) include:
Ottawa ON
Sudbury ON
Toronto ON
Hamilton ON (including Niagara peninsula)
Guelph/Kitchener/Waterloo ON
Waterford ON
London ON
Windsor ON
Comments
other geographic areas
[Note 1: This list includes cities in Ontario. The list for western Canada
and Alaska is here. The list for eastern Canada is here.
Lists for other geographic areas are in separate files.]
[Note 2: I collected these comments from a variety of people. I personally
have no knowledge of many of these places and take no responsibility if you
buy a book you don't enjoy. :-) Phone numbers and precise addresses can be
gotten by calling directory assistance for the appropriate city. Call ahead
for precise hours, as even when I list them they are subject to change.]
[Note 3: If you can add information for any of these, in particular
addresses when they are missing, please send it to me. *PLEASE SPECIFY CITY
AND PROVINCE.*]
[Note 4: Area codes change so quickly these days that these may be wrong.]
============================================================================
------------------------------
Ottawa ON:
Argosy Books (216 Dalhousie at Guigues (Market area), 613-230-1319). Used
books. Often treasures in the $1 bin outside. Good collection of
Penguins. Specializes in natural history, gardening, technology,
Arctica, and children's books. A very comfortable shop with
friendly staff. "The owner is friendly, knowledgeable and
widely-read; lots of stools around for you to sit and browse."
The Astrolabe Gallery (71 Sparks, 613-234-2348). Not strictly a book
store, but does carry some antiquarian books in addition to
its primary line of rare maps and prints.
Bay Used Books (1181 B Richmond Road, 613-596-1966).
Benjamin Books (St. Laurent and Orleans shopping malls). New and
used (?) books. Large selection. The new books are primarily
standard literature texts on the University curricula. There
is a wide selection of Canadiana, religion, and travel, and
scholarly and classical works generally. The main store
burned down July 2007 but the branches still exist. [08/07]
The Bibliothecary at Bentley's (145 Bentley Ave, Nepean, 613-225-5613).
The Book Bazaar (417 Bank at 2nd Avenue (The Glebe), 613-233-4380).
Used books. Well-known for its wheel barrow of books for $1
(or free). Large fiction section (especially paperbacks).
The best selection of music books, especially scores, in
town. Also covers Canadiana, art, literature, and
children's. Their new location is spread over two floors.
[02/07]
The Book Den (263 McLaren at Metcalfe (Downtown), 613-236-3142). Used
books. A small store on the first floor of an apartment
building (a block away from where Canada's current Prime
Minister lived). Small selection, but fairly high quality.
General, literature, art, Canadiana, history, Catholica,
cookbooks and children's.
The Book Mark I (163 Laurier Avenue East at King Edward (south of
Ottawa University), 613-563-8798). Used books. Intriguing
walk-down store specializing in Academic and alternative
books, philosophy, religion, and history. Popular with the
University crowd.
The Book Mark II (on Rideau just east of King Edward (next to the By-
Towne Cinema)). Used books. The Book Mark has just recently
set up this satellite branch beside Ottawa's most popular and
trendy repertory theatre, and established long opening hours
seven-days-a-week. To please the cinema-going crowd, the Book
Mark II specializes in history, occult, and fiction.
The Book Market (374 Dalhousie between George and Rideau (Market area),
613-234-1753; branches at 1534 Merrivale Road in Nepean, the
Alta Bank Shopping Plaza, and 1675 Tenth Line Road). Used
books. Not an antiquarian store, but good if you're looking
for a particular recent title, because of their sheer volume.
Friendly staff does searches of their and other branches. The
one on Dalhousie is two stories with a good SF selection and
does searches.
David Ewen Books (P.O. Box 4808, Stn. E., Ottawa, K1S 5H9, 613-725-3103).
Used books. Canadiana, Americana, as well as Canadian prints.
Earthwise Books (216 Bank (Downtown), 613-238-8363). New books on
environmental and planet-friendly themes.
Globe Mags & Cigars (57 William (market area), 613-241-7274). National
and international magazines and newspapers.
The Hungry Eye (216 Dalhousie St, 613-789-7092). Occult books and
supplies. "The stock is not extensive, but it is of very high
quality. Owners Lucie and Michael are very helpful and
knowledgeable about occult books and the general occult
community in Ottawa." Not sure if this is still open.
Librarie de la Capitale (171 Rideau at Dalhousie (Market area),
613-236-7287). New books. French. Large collection of French
literature, dictionaries, essays, etc.
Librarie de la Soleil (321 Dalhousie at York (Market area), 613-236-2331).
New books. French. Large collection of French books, magazines
and newspapers. (Formerly Librarie Trillium; also has new
owner.) Not sure if this is still open.
Loisir des Usagers (321 Boulevard St-Joseph, Hull (across the river from
Ottawa), 819-778-0341). Used books. French. Good selection of
paperback fiction. Cheap, as French paperbacks go.
Patrick McGahern Books Inc. (783 Bank at 3rd Avenue (The Glebe),
613-230-2275). New and used books. A good collection of
paperback fiction upstairs. But downstairs the layout is that
of a true antiquarian book-store, with high shelves and tall
ladders. Specializes in used and rare books, Canadiana,
Arctica, voyages and travels, medicine, and Irish history and
literature. A very knowledgeable book-seller.
Mags and Fags (286 Elgin, 613-233-9651). National and international
magazines and newspapers. [I hasten to note that in Canada,
"fags" are cigarettes.]
Maison de la presse internationale (100 Bank, 613-230-9774). National
and international magazines and newspapers, with an emphasis on
publications in French.
Octopus Books (798 Bank at 3rd Avenue (The Glebe), 613-236-2589). New
books on socialist and internationalist themes. Run on a
non-profit basis (intentionally!) by a socialist collective.
They often host socialist talks or films in the store in the
evenings.
Ottawa Women's Bookstore (272 Elgin Street, 613-230-1156).
Prime Crime (891 Bank, 613-238-2583, ab638@freenet.carlton.ca). "Fantastic
little mystery bookstore with a good selection and lots of
charm, and also a kind clerk always willing to special order
books, even asking for an E-Mail address. They have a pretty
good selection of Sherlock Holmes books, even a violin standing
in memorial to the great detective. And lots of good deals on
used books as well."
Prospero: The Book Company (128 Bank Street, 613-238-7683; Rideau
Centre, 613-789-3880; and others). Excellent collection of
computer books (at Bank Street). All locations are noted for
special orders.
R.R. Knott, Bookseller (3 Roberta Cres., Nepean, Ontario, K2J 1G5,
613-825-0537). Used books. Rare and interesting books.
Canadian literature and modern firsts. Ancient and medieval
studies.
Renouf Books (61 Sparks at Elgin, 613-238-8995, http://www.fedpubs.com).
Good selection of new books. Federal and Ontario government
publications, international reports and documents, topographic
maps. General business and current affairs.
Richard Fitzpatrick Books (242 1/2 Dalhousie at St. Patrick (Market
area), 613-562-1088). Used books. Overflowing stock cramped
into what seems like a fairly tiny place. Still, an eclectic
mix of used and rare books, Canadiana, religions, myths and
general stock. Richard Fitzpatrick, with his near-waist-length
hair, can usually be seen transacting business on the steps
outside the store, where there is more room! Not sure if this
is still open.
Sapre Aude Books (4th Ave at Bank (The Glebe)). Native Studies, Eastern
religions, women's studies.
Solo Books (324 Richmond Rd). Used books. "Purchases and sells only
paperbacks with a cover price of over $3.25 (this amount
changes on occasion) except for SF and Western where all
paperbacks are accepted. Bernie Stewart, the owner, cleans
and sterilizes every book with ultraviolet light before
putting it on the shelf."
Sunnyside Bookshop (113 Murray at Sussex (Market area), 613-236-0943).
Consciousness through holistic health, psychology,
spirituality, astrology, occult.
Thorne and Co. (803 Bank at 3rd Ave (The Glebe), 613-232-6565).
Gardening books (exotic and practical), including gardening
books for children.
Traveller's Tales Books (20 Powell Hill Avenue, Ottawa, K1S 2A1,
613-236-6650). Used books. By appointment or mail order.
Fine and interesting books in many fields, especially travel,
cookery, literature, Jane Austen, decorative arts, and
children's.
The bookstores at the University of Ottawa and at Carleton University
are obviously prime choices for academic books.
============================================================================
------------------------------
Sudbury ON:
Bay Used Books (124 Elm, P3C 1T6, 705-673-9311, bayusedbooks@vianet.ca).
Inventory of 250,000 books including paperbacks (all genres,
Canadiana, and more), rare books, classics, reference books in
may fields. old comics, graphic novels, and children books.
Also has a small selection of new erotica books. In business
for over 30 years. Open Mon-Fri 9:30AM-8:30PM, Sat 10AM-5PM,
Sun 12N-5PM. [08/08]
Bay Used Books (124 Elm, P3C 1T6, 705-673-9311,
bayusedbooks@vianet.ca). Used books; 250,000 volumes.
All categories of books, also old comics and a small section
of new erotica by Ellora's Caves, Aphrodisia, and Red Sage.
Open Mon-Fri 9:30AM-8:30PM, Sat 10AM-5PM, Sun 12N-5PM. [08/08]
============================================================================
------------------------------
Toronto ON:
In town:
ABC Book Store (662 Yonge south of Bloor, 416-967-7654). Large
selection of used books, including big science fiction
section. Has large numbers of older (e.g., ten years' old)
science fiction in the dollar bin. Open Mon-Sat 10AM-11PM,
Sun 12N-10PM. [09/05]
Abbey Books (89 Harbord west of Spadina, 416-960-9076). Medium
selection of used books, especially literature. Good prices
but unimpressive stock.
Abelard Books (519 Queen W east of Spadina, M5V 2B4, 416-504-2665,
info@abelardbooks.com). Large selection of used and
antiquarian books, especially art, scholarly, classics,
theology, and philosophy. Open Mon-Sat 11AM-6PM, Sun
12N-5PM. [10/03]
Acadia Books (232 Queen E near Sherbourne, M5A 1S3, 416-364-7638,
FAX 419-364-1446, http://www.acadiabooks.com). Medium
selection of used books, especially art books. Non-art books
reasonably priced. Open Mon-Fri 11AM-6PM, Sat 11AM-5PM.
[09/05]
African Violet Florist (33 Roys Square south of Bloor). Yes, they
sell used books, though a pretty mediocre selection. [09/05]
Alexandre Antique Prints, Maps & Books (104 Queen E, M5C 1S6,
416-364-2376, FAX 416-364-8909, http://www.alexandremaps.com).
17th-19th Century illustrated books. Open Mon-Fri 11AM-6PM,
Sat 11AM-5PM. [10/03]
Another Story (164 Danforth, 416-462-1104). Emphasis on social
justice, equity, and diversity. Educator and other
discounts. [10/04]
Annex Books (1083 Bathurst, M5R 3G8, 416-537-1852, annexbks@inforamp.net).
Used books. Open Tue-Fri 11AM-6PM, Sat 10AM-6PM. [09/05]
Atticus Books (84 Harbord just west of Spadina, N5S 1G5, 416-922-6045,
FAX 416-926-9686, http://www.atticus-books.com). Used books.
"Atticus is probably the finest used bookstore for scholarly
books in Toronto. It has an excellent philosophy/social-
sciences section, books are in excellent shape. Two floors;
basement is softcover only. Also good selection of art
books, some rare." Open Mon-Fri 11:30AM-6PM, Sat 11:30-5PM,
Sun 12N-5PM. [09/05]
BMV (10 Edward St next to WBB, 416-977-3087; 2289 Yonge,
416-482-6002). Used books, magazines, and videos. Open daily
10AM-11PM. [09/05]
BMV (471 Bloor W). "A huge two-storey remainder/used bookstore. The
large SF section contains remainders, a lot of recent used books,
and a good selection of older paperbacks going back to at least
the '60s. Prices are reasonable. The older books appear to be
in their own alphabetical section but mostly the SF section can
be readily browsed." [12/07]
Bakka Phoenix Books (697 Queen W, M6J 1E6, 416-963-9993,
http://www.bakkaphoenixbooks.com). The SF bookstore in
Toronto. Very knowledgeable staff who seem to read everything
in print. "This is *the* SF bookstore in Toronto, a
must-visit for any SF fan." New and used. (Moved to this
location March 2005, from Yonge Street. But before that they
were at 282 Queen St W!) Parking is a problem, as there is
no parking on Queen during rush hours. Open Mon-Thu 11AM-7PM,
Fri 11AM-9PM, Sat 11AM-6PM, 12N-5PM. [09/05]
Balfour Books (601 College, M6G 1B5, 416-531-9911,
metaphor@balfourbooks.com). General used and antiquarian
books, but with strong architecture, design, etc., sections.
Open seven days 12N-10PM. [09/05]
Batta Book Store (not Bakka!) (710 The Queensway east of Royal York Rd
[which is nowhere near the Royal York Hotel!], 416-259-2618).
Quite far from downtown Toronto, rather chaotic store, medium
selection of used books, good prices.
The Beguiling (601 Markham St, 416-533-9168). "No bookstore list in
Toronto is complete without mentioning The Beguiling, *the*
source for underground and alternative literature and comix.
Voted #2 in a North America-wide survey of comix shops. (They
de-emphasize superhero books and have an extremely large small
press and alternative comix selection."
The Bob Miller Book Room (180 Bloor W west of Avenue Road,
416-922-3557). A good selection, with an academic focus.
Book City (2350 Bloor W east of Jane, 416-766-9412; 501 Bloor W
between Spadina and Bathurst, 416-961-4496; 348 Danforth Ave
near Chester or Logan, 416-469-9997; 1950 Queen E east of
Woodbine, "Beaches" area, 416-698-1444; 1430 Yonge at St.
Clair, 416-961-1228). Good selection of small press as well
as everything else. Good newstand. No place to sit. Helpful
staff. Cat-free, but famous people wander through: Barbara
Gowdy, Sheilagh Rogers, Ralph Benmergui, and more. (Canuck
alert: above named are Canadians, you might not have heard of
them.) Mentioned by posters as one of Canada's best
bookstores. "All hardcovers are sold with a discount (I think
10%) price." Open till midnight. [09/05]
Book Ends (North York Central Library, 5120 Yonge, Concourse Level,
416-395-5678 or 416-393-7131; Toronto Reference Library,
789 Yonge). Primarily library discards, described as "10,000+
books; 20% donated; 60% hardcover; sorted; paperbacks .50;
hardcovers $1; some specials. Bookstore." Open Thu-Sat
10AM-4PM. [10/03]
Bookland (350 Queen E between Sherbourne and Parliament, 416-363-4820).
Small selection of used books, large selection of old
magazines.
Bryan's Books (1917 Queen E, east of Woodbine, in the "Beaches" area).
Medium selection of used books, generally below average
quality but very cheap.
Caversham Booksellers (98 Harbord, M5S 1G6, 416-944-0962 or
800-361-6120, FAX 416-944-0963,
http://www.cavershambooksellers.com). Independent
bookseller specializing solely in mental health. [10/07]
Chapters (various locations), http://www.chapters.ca).
Excellent superstore. Same company as Indigo, Coles,
Smithbooks, and WBB. The Bloor St store closed in 2005; I've
never visited any of the others. [09/05]
Coles (Metro Centre retail concourse, King west of University,
416-593-4599; Commerce Court retail concourse, Bay & King,
416-868-1782; Eaton Centre, Yonge & Dundas, 416-979-9348; and
many other locations in the city and suburbs). It's a chain.
Also see World's Biggest Bookstore.
Contact Editions (491 Davenport Rd, just east of Spadina, M4V 1B7,
416-322-0777, FAX 416-322-3226, http://www.contacteditions.ca).
Modern first editions. New location (again.) No longer has
general used books. Has a tiny (3-car) parking lot. Open
Mon-Fri 10AM-6PM, Sat 9AM-6PM, Sun 12N-5PM. [09/05]
Cookbook Store (850 Yonge at Yorkville, 416-920-3271 or 800-268-2665,
http://www.cook-book.com). Cookbooks, of course. Open
Mon-Wed, Fri 9:30AM-6:30PM, Thu 9:30AM-8PM, Sat 10AM-6PM,
Sun 12N-5PM.
DEC Bookroom (836 Bloor W east of Ossington, 416-516-2966). Radical
bookstore.
DRB Motors Inc. (16 Elrose Ave near 400/401, M9M 2H6,
800-665-2665(BOOK) or 416-744-7675, FAX 416-744-7696,
http://www.transportbooks.com). "Books for that other
highway." Approximately 10,000 automotive and
transportation-related publications from the mundane to the
esoteric, technical through to picture books, including a wide
selection of books for young readers. Topics include
automotive, hobbies/models/toys, aviation/space, commercial
vehicles, military vehicles; marine, motorcycles, snowmobiles,
bicycles, tractors/stationary engines, etc. Open Mon-Sat
10AM-5PM, Sun (Nov and Dec) 12N-4PM.
Eliot's Book Store (584 Yonge, 416-925-0268). Best selection of used
books on Yonge, including huge science fiction section. Open
11AM-11PM. [09/05]
Evans Bookstore (Irwin west of Yonge). Accounting, taxation, and such.
Glad Day (598-A Yonge north of Wellesley, 2nd floor, 416-961-4161).
Gay/lesbian/bisexual books. It's on the second floor, but
there is a large pink neon sign at street level. The store
has an excellent selection of gay/lesbian/bisexual literature
(fiction and non-fiction), AIDS information, and an
international assortment of magazines and journals.
Open Mon-Wed 10AM-7PM, Thu-Fri 10AM-9PM, Sat 10AM-7PM, Sun
12N-7PM.
Goodwill Buy the Pound (50 Emblem Court near Midland Ave and Hwy. 401,
Scarborough, 416-362-4711 (?)). Very cheap,
("a continuous flow of books priced from 25 cents to $1") and
apparently a popular haunt for book dealers. [02/07]
Half Price Books (2042 Avenue Rd, south of Wilson, 416-544-1655).
Remaindered and used books.
Hugh Anson-Cartwright Books (229 College, east of Spadina,
416-979-2441). Small selection of antiquarian books,
especially Canadiana. "Definitely worth searching out if
you're interested in the great Modernist writers."
Indigo (Yonge Eglinton Centre, 2300 Yonge, 416-544-0049; Manulife
Centre, 55 Bloor W [but the store is actually almost a block
south of Bloor, off Bay], 416-925-3536; Eaton Centre on Yonge
north of Queen; Yorkdale Mall, Yorkdale Rd & Highway 401,
http://www.indigo.ca). Superstore with cafe, music, and
computers. Late evening hours, varies from store to store.
[09/05]
Israel's Judaica (897 Eglinton Avenue W west of Bathurst, M6C 2C1,
416-256-2858, FAX 416-256-2750; 441 Clark Ave W east of
Bathurst, Thornhill, L4J 6W7, 905-881-1010; 800-449-5918,
http://www.israelsjudaica.com). Judaica
and Jewish books and gifts. Open Mon-Wed 9AM-7PM, Thu
9AM-9PM, Fri 9AM-[sundown minus a couple of hours], Sun
10AM-5PM.
D. & E. Lake Ltd. (237 King E, west of Parliament, M5A 1J9,
416-863-9930, http://www.delake.com). Large selection of art
books, general antiquarian and rare books. Expensive.
"Knowlegeable owner who unfortunately has little time for
those without 'real money.'" Open Mon-Sat 9:30AM-6PM,
Sun 11AM-2:30PM. [09/05]
Librarie Champlain (468 Queen E east of Parliament, M5A 1T7,
416-364-4345). Champlain specializes in books for schools and
libraries, but they also have a large selection of French
language books for the general public.
MaryAnn's Book Shelf (1957 Avenue Rd, south of Wilson, 416-487-8440).
David Mirvish's (596 Markham St, at Bloor and Bathurst, 416-531-9975).
Large selection of new books, especially art books; the
largest selection of remainders in Toronto.
Monkey's Paw Books (1229 Dundas W). "An interesting, eclectic
collection. Heavy on art and design and just plain oddities.
Limited selection of fiction." [06/06]
Monster Records (664 Yonge, 416-975-1829). Mostly used CDs, VHS,
laserdiscs, and DVDs, with a medium supply of used film
and television books.
N.D.J. (504 Yonge, 416-925-2080). Used books, some SF. Small but
good erotica section. [09/05]
Nicholas Hoare (45 Front E east of Yonge, 416-777-2665). Large
selection of new books, no remainders, nice store (e.g.,
comfortable sofas). "Your description of Nicholas Hoare
really doesn't do the store justice. It is absolutely
beautiful, and has not only comfortable sofas but a fireplace
as well. There is a separate children's-book section, which
is kid-friendly and has a good selection. Throughout the
store the choice of titles has been made with the
'discriminating reader' in mind. The staff are knowledgeable
and helpful (if at times a bit snobbish). It's my first
choice of a bookstore when I want to browse."
Omega Centre Bookstore (Yorkville between Yonge and Bay,
http://www.omegactr.com. New Age and related
subjects.
Open Air Books and Maps (25 Toronto Street, near Yonge and Adelaide,
downstairs, 416-363-0719). Large selection of new books on
travel, some remainders (though they are stacked up in
user-unfriendly piles!). Best selection of travel books and
guides in Toronto.
Orion Book Store (544 Yonge south of Bloor, 416-923-5337). Used
books. The smallest of the used bookstores along Yonge.
[09/05]
Pages (256 Queen W between University and Spadina, 416-598-1447).
"Has Toronto's best selection of new books on post-modern
deconstruction of neogender-based recontextualization and
that sort of thing." Also has books for normal people.
Similar in approach to Shakespeare and Company in New York.
We spend more money faster there than any other Toronto new
book store. Open Mon-Wed 9:30AM-10PM, Thu-Fri 9:30AM-11PM,
Sat 10AM-11PM, Sun 11AM-8PM.
The Pleasant Bookstore (656 Eglinton E west of Bayview, 416-488-5998).
Used paperbacks at half price, a few used hardbacks (mostly
children's) and new. Open Mon-Fri 10AM-6PM, Sat
9:30AM-4:30PM.
Recycled Book Shop (162 McCaul, 416-351-0802). The description in
"Now" indicates it is somewhat disordered, but cheap.
[10/04]
Renouf Books (12 Adelaide W, 416-363-3171, http://www.fedpubs.com).
Good selection of new books. Federal and Ontario government
publications, international reports and documents, topographic
maps. General business and current affairs.
Seekers (509 Bloor W between Spadina and Bathurst, 416-925-1982).
Very big used book store.
Sleuth of Baker Street (1600 Bayview Ave, below Eglinton,
416-483-3111). "An excellent source for mystery as well as
spy and espionage books. I never fail to find something of
interest there, especially older works that are hard to come
by elsewhere." "A must-visit for mystery fans in the city,
full of Holmes memorabilia and a comprehensive collection of
current and out-of-print books." Open Mon-Thu 10AM-6PM,
Fri 10AM-8PM, Sat 10AM-6PM, Sun 12N-4PM. [09/05]
Smithbooks (Royal Bank Plaza retail concourse, Bay & Wellington,
416-865-0900; Scotia Plaza retail concourse, King west of
Yonge, 416-365-7536; Eaton Centre, Yonge & Queen,
416-979-9376; College Park, Yonge & College, 416-598-3867;
Hudson Bay Centre, Yonge & Bloor, 416-967-7177; and many
other locations in the city and suburbs, including several at
the airport). Chain.
Steven Temple (489 Queen W, 2nd floor, 416-703-9908, FAX 416-703-8872,
http://www.steventemplebooks.com). General antiquarian
and out-of-print hardcovers. Open Mon-Sat 12N-6PM. [10/03]
Talking Book World Audiobooks (386 Sheppard Ave East, 416-222-9556;
3338 Dufferin, 416-781-5556; 2100 Hurontario, 905-281-2707;
8555 Woodbine Ave at Highway 7, 905-479-1777;
http://www.tbwaudiobooks.com). Audiobooks on CD for rental or
sale. "Excellent for commuters, busy people, or vision-impaired
booklovers." They also offer mail rentals. [12/07]
Ten Editions Bookstore (698 Spadina Ave, just north of Harbord,
M5S 2J2, 416-964-3803). Large selection of used books, rather
chaotic. Emphasis on Candiana, children's books, and ephemera.
Open Mon-Sat 11AM-6PM, Sun 1PM-5PM.
Theatre Books (11 St. Thomas, west of Bay and south of Bloor, M5S 2B7,
800-361-3414 or 416-922-7175, FAX 416-922-0739,
http://www.theatrebooks.com). Drama, cinema, opera, and
ballet. Not as big a selection as (say) the Drama Bookstore
in New York, but good nonetheless, with a similar emphasis on
books for people in the industry. Lots of British books. Not
surprisingly, an emphasis on Canadians (e.g., a lot on
Cronenberg, but nothing on Murnau). Extremely convenient to
the main Toronto International Film Festival venues. Open
Mon-Fri 10AM-7PM, Sat 10AM-6PM, Sun 12N-5PM. [09/05]
This Ain't the Rosedale Library (483 Church near Wellesley,
416-929-9912). Heavy emphasis on gay and lesbian books,
gender issues, etc. Some general books as well. Open Mon-Thu
10AM-10PM, Fri-Sat 10AM-11PM, Sun 1PM-9PM.
Toronto Women's Bookstore (73 Harbord, 416-922-8744). [10/04]
University of Toronto Bookstore (214 College at St. George, east of
Spadina, 416-978-7900). Full range of textbooks with lots of
books on related topics. Largest selection of computer books
in the city, and a good selection of remainders. Formerly the
city's public library.
Village Book Store (239 Queen W between University and Spadina,
M5V 1Z4, 416-598-4097). Medium selection of general used
books, reasonable prices. (Not listed in 2003 Toronto
antiquarian pamphlet.) Open Mon-Sat 11AM-7PM, Sun 12N-6PM. [10/03]
World's Biggest Bookstore (WBB) (20 Edward Street between Yonge and
Bay, 416-977-7009). Part of the Chapters/Coles/Smithbooks/
W. H. Smith chain. When they opened, they claimed to have the
largest *floor area* of a bookstore *in a single building* in
the world. One poster qualified this a few years ago with,
"But it isn't a great bookstore. For one thing, it's really
just a Coles on growth hormones. (What do I mean by that? I
guess I mean that the selection is wide, but not deep. For
example, there are a lot of books about the Napoleanic wars,
but they seem to have been chosen at random and with little
thought. There might be several biographies of Henry VIII
and Cromwell but none of More.) I've spent many a spare
moment on the TTC pondering the question of exactly how they
select their books. I can't decide if they make a list of
every book which is currently on the shelves or in a box in
*any* Coles in Canada and get a copy of it, or if the way
Coles deals with its remainders is to have all the stores ship
them to this one (in which case, they augment the selection
with a lot of copies of "current" stuff)." Another poster
says, "I like that summary. I also like to shop there," and
says further, "WBB does seem to be the place to go if you want
to find books that, while they are still in print, other
stores have stopped carrying because they aren't the latest
in the series." Late evening hours. [09/05]
Suburbs:
Old Favorites Bookshop Ltd. (132 Highway 7, Green River, (mailing address
RR #1, Locust Hill, L0H 1J0), tel/FAX 905-294-3865,
oldfavs@interlog.com). Used and antiquarian, specializing in
Canadiana and equestrian. Open Tue-Sun 11AM-5PM.
R & R Books (1515 Rebecca, Hopedale Mall, Oakville, 905-847-2828,
http://www.randrbooks,ca). A general used bookstore with some
new books and publisher remainders. Specializes in fiction
catergories. [08/08]
[Thanks for a contributor who wishes to remain anonymous for his extensive
and continuous updating of this section.]
============================================================================
------------------------------
Hamilton ON (and Niagara peninsula):
Barone's Books (1925 King E, L8K 1B9, 905-544-4240). "Used books for
people of all ages. At least that's what it says in the Yellow
Pages." Another poster says, "Nice store, owner. About a thousand
SF, lots of others. [01/05]
Book Villa (185 King E, 905-525-2637). Great selection of current
magazines and newspapers from around the world as well as a fairly
small amount of new books.
Chapman Books (11 Cross, Dundas, 905-627-5007). Okay selection of new
books and magazines. Has great special ordering from around the
world. They will take your orders over the phone.
Hamilton Book Comic & Magazine Centre (456 King E, 905-529-4368). The
name says it all.
McMaster University Bookstore (1280 Main W, 905-525-9149).
Mike's World of Books (150 James S, L8P 3A2 , 905-523-5107). "Very good
selection of used books, all kinds of interests are covered. The
store is woefully small for its large selection. Be prepared to
search for what you want as some books are stacked in front of
others. "Small store with many hardbacks as well as paperbacks.
Has a small selection of SF but many are older paperbacks as well
as many 'Star Trek' trade paperbacks and hardbacks."
The Occult Shop (331 Main W, 905-523-8433). Metaphysical and occult books
as well as herbs, oils, incence, tarot cards etc.
Silver Snail (211 King E, 905-522-9366). For comic book lovers only.
The Westdale Bookworm (852 King W, L8S 1K3, 905-523-4345). Says "28,000
books ... including literature, children's books and the largest
Sci-Fi collection in the area." Has another store in Brantford
(331 Brant Ave, 519-759-6921). Open Mon-Fri 10AM-6PM,
Sat 10AM-5PM. [08/05]
Niagara Peninsula:
Bridgeburg Bookstore (16 Jarvis, Fort Erie, L2A 2S1, 905-871-8484,
FAX 905-871-9857, ahall@cogeco.ca). Used and antiquarian,
specializing in sensational fiction and early fantasy. (Was William
Matthews, Bookseller). Open Mon-Sat 10AM-5:30PM. [10/03]
Hannelore Headley Books (71 Queen, St. Catharines, L2R 5G9,
905-684-6145; 285 St. Paul, St. Catherines, 905-684-8426).
Used and antiquarian Canadiana, English, and American literary
first editions. Open Mon-Sat 10AM-5PM, Sun 12N-5PM (Queen St);
Mon-Sat 9:30-5:30PM (St. Paul). [10/03]
============================================================================
------------------------------
Guelph/Kitchener/Waterloo/Cambridge ON:
Air Support Military Books (269 Frederick, Kitchener. 519-578-6134).
[10/04]
Augsburg Fortress Canada (500 Trillium Dr, Kitchener, 519-748-2200). New
books. Open Mon-Fri 9AM-5PM. [10/04]
The Book Shelf (41 Quebec St, Guelph). A diverse selection of
magazines and books for all interests. "Some of my friends in
Toronto said The Book Shelf rivals some of the better
bookstores in Toronto. They deal in new books and their
magazine selection is better than some good newsstands in
Canada. Anything you cannot find on their shelves can be
ordered through them. This is their 20th year and according
to a local newspaper, they are currently computerizing their
shop. However, the uniqueness of the Book Shelf is not only
in their books, but they also have (1) a cafe, (2) a cinema
(for foreign films) and (3) a patio (summer only, this is
Canada after all!) all under the same roof." This place is
highly recommended. [10/04]
Bookshop at Pandora Press (33 Kent, Kitchener. 519-745-1650). [10/04]
The Bookmill (8 Spring St., St. Jacobs. 519-664-1995). Used books.
[10/04]
The Bookworm (65 University E, Waterloo. 519-885-0472). Used books.
[10/04]
The Cambridge Book Nook (107 Westminster Dr, in the Preston section of
Cambridge). "Just off the main drag, close to the CIBC and the
Fox and something pub, has changed hands and is undergoing
reorganization. A shift away from the paperback exchange aspect of
the business will be welcome." [06/06]
Carry On Comics & Books (32 King N, Waterloo, 519-886-4267). [10/04]
The Carpenter Shop (110 King S, Waterloo, 519-885-4500). Religious
(Christian) books. Open Mon-Wed 9:30AM-5:45PM, Thu-Fri
9:30AM-9PM, Sat 9:30AM-5:30PM. [10/04]
Casablanca Bookshop (146 King W. Kitchener 519-576-0026). Used
books. Good selection. Open 0AM-6PM, Tue-Fri 10AM-9PM, Sat
10AM-6PM, Sun 12N-5PM. [10/04]
Coles (various malls). National chain. [10/04]
Goodwill Thrift Shop (1348 Weber E, Waterloo, 519-746-3770,). Used
books. Open Mon-Thu 9:30AM-5:30PM, Fri 9:30AM-9PM, Sat
9:30AM-5:30PM. [10/04]
The Hidden Treasure (22 Main, Cambridge. N1R 1V4, 519-653-0214). Christian
literature. [09/08]
Hollyoak (24 Regina N, Waterloo, 519-725-2681). Open Tue-Fri
9:30AM-5:30PM, Sat 9:30AM-5PM. [10/04]
K W Book Store & Exchange (306 King W, Kitchener, 519-742-1261). Good
selection of used books, new & used magazines, interesting
historical selection of erotica, multi-lingual. Open Mon-Sat
9AM-9PM, Sun 11AM-4PM. [10/04]
Macondo Books (18 Wilson, Guelph. 519-836-0430). Used books. [10/04]
Mitchell R G Family Books (1601 River E, 519-894-9900). Religious
(Christian). Open Mon-Tue 9:30AM-6PM, Wed-Fri 9:30AM-9PM, Sat
9:30AM-6PM. [10/04]
Moody Blues Book Cafe (68 Regina N, Waterloo. 519-747-1277). [10/04]
Now & Then Books (90 Queen S, Kitchener, 519-744-5571). New books.
[10/04]
Old Goat Books (99 King N, Waterloo. 519-880-9595). Used books.
[10/04]
Paperbacks Unlimited (36 Dickson, Cambridge, N1R 1T4, 519-740-7880,
FAX 519-740-7882, http://www.paperbacksunlimited.ca).
General used bookstore with 25,000 books, most in paperback,
some hardcover. Partial inventory online. Open Mon-Wed
9:30AM-6PM, Thu-Fri 9:30AM-8PM, Sat 9:30AM-5PM. [08/06]
Salvation Army Thrift Shop 1436 Victoria N. Kitchener, 519-886-3020).
Used books. Open Mon-Sat 10AM-5PM. [10/04]
Second Look Bookshop (33 Queen S. Kitchener, 519-744-2274). Good
selection of used books. Open Mon-Thu 11AM-6PM, Fri
11AM-10PM, Sat 10AM-6PM, Sun 1PM-5PM. [10/04]
Sunrise Books (399 Speedvale E, Guelph, 519-763-6610}. Used books.
[10/04]
University of Waterloo Bookstore (South Campus Hall, Waterloo,
519-888-4567 x2902, ffoster@bg1.uwaterloo.ca). Open Mon-Fri
8:30AM-5PM, Sat 12N-4PM (except July and August). [10/04]
University of Waterloo Used Bookstore (Campus Centre, Waterloo). Buy
and sell textbooks on consignment. Try the English section
for recreational reading. Open Mon-Fri 10AM-4PM, [10/04]
Value Village (120 Ottawa N, Kitchener. 519-576-4403). Used books.
[10/04]
Waterloo Computer Books (1 King N, Waterloo, 519-746-6042). Good selection
of computer books, including Unix and technical books.
Open Mon-Fri 10AM-9PM, Sat 10AM-6PM, Sun 12N-5PM.
Waterloo Generations (50 Bridgeport E, Kitchener. 519-886-6226).
Thrift shop with fair selection of used books. [10/04]
Wilfred Laurier University Bookstore (75 University W, Waterloo,
519-884-1970 x3237). Open Mon-Thu 8:45AM-5PM, Fri
8:45AM-4:30PM. [10/04]
Words Worth Books (100 King S, Waterloo, 519-884-2665). New books.
"High-brow" selection. Open Mon-Fri 9AM-9PM, Sat 9AM-6PM,
Sun 12N-5PM. [10/04]
============================================================================
------------------------------
Waterford ON:
Old Town Hall Bookstore (Main Street (north basement), Waterford).
"Thousands of surprisingly good titles donated by a very
generous community. Proceeds support the operation of the Old
Town Hall (http://www.oldtownhall.org). General used books,
sorted into categories." Paperbacks (inc. trade) $1,
hardcovers $2, children's $.50. Open Sat 10AM-4PM. [02/07]
============================================================================
------------------------------
London ON:
Attic Books (240 Dundas, London, N6A 1H3, 519-432-7277,
http://www.atticbooks.ca). Used general, Canadiana, and
technical and medical. Open Mon-Thu, Sat 10AM-5:30PM;
Fri 10AM-9PM (May-Dec), 10AM-5:30PM (Jan-Apr). [11/07]
============================================================================
------------------------------
Windsor ON:
Starting from the south and working north towards the river:
Bookmark Book Exchange (537 Ouelette, 519-253-8231). New and used
paperbacks. It's a small store but absolutely crammed with books.
This place also carries Dover editions including children's books
and coloring books.
Borderline Books (39 Park W, 519-256-9042). Eclectic selection of art
books, political science, psychology, and literature.
Coles (255 Ouelette, 519-253-8144). This is a chain store with the usual
selection of best sellers, paperbacks, how-to books, and the like.
South Shore Books (164 Pitt W, 519-253-9102). Literature, history,
children's books. It's not huge, but it's a pleasant place to
browse.
University of Windsor Bookstore (just off the bridge). It has some great
little things.
[Most of this section contributed by Sandra Loosemore.]
===========================================================================
Comments:
You can also try http://www.lexlibris.com for French used books.
There are also Book Hunter Press's USED BOOK LOVER'S GUIDE TO [various
regions], seven regional guides to over 7,900 used, out-of-print, and
antiquarian book dealers in the United States and Canada. The complete
database is online and can be searched by location, dealer name, specialty,
and type of dealer. Access to the database is available on a two tier basis:
partial access is free, full access is by subscription.The web page also
includes free access to regional and city maps showing locations with used
bookstores. For more information or a free catalog, check their web page at
http://bookhunterpress.com/.
There is also ANTIQUARIAN, SPECIALTY, AND USED BOOK SELLERS
DIRECTORY 1997-98, covering 5,261 dealers in 863 pages. For more
information, send E-mail request asubs@aol.com, or check their web page
at http://www.auldbooks.com/biblio/asubs.
===========================================================================
Copyright Notice
Information contained in this FAQ is compiled from many sources. The
compiler accepts no responsibility for the comments contained herein.
The comments are provided "as is" with no warranty, express or implied,
for the information provided within them.
This FAQ is not to be reproduced for commercial use unless the party
reproducing the FAQ agrees to the following:
1) They will contact the FAQ maintainer to obtain the latest version for
their collection.
2) They will provide the FAQ maintainer with information on what collection
the copy of the FAQ is in, and how that collection may be obtained.
3) They will agree, in writing, that the FAQ will be included in the
collection without modification, and that acknowledgements of
contributors (if any) to the FAQ remain in the FAQ.
4) They will agree, in writing, that the collection including the FAQ will
be distributed on either a non-profit basis, or have some percentage of
profit donated to a non-profit literacy program. Project Gutenberg
counts.
To support this, this FAQ is Compilation Copyright 2007 by Evelyn C. Leeper
(the FAQ maintainer).
============================================================================
Evelyn C. Leeper
Evelyn C. Leeper (eleeper@optonline.net)
Go to my home page