Our Favourite Canadian Independent Bookstores

We love indie bookstores here at Common Deer Press, so what better way to celebrate Canadian Independent Bookstore Day than to share our favourites with you?

Kidsbooks, Vancouver

Kidsbooks aims to be a thriving environment for children and adults who love reading and great books. They partner with educators, librarians, parents, and children to put great books into the hands of booklovers.

Ivy's Bookshop, Victoria

Ivy’s Bookshop is a friendly neighborhood store in Victoria’s Oak Bay area.

Munro's Books, Victoria

With its heritage building and striking artwork, Munro’s Books is a beautiful place to meet friends, browse, and discover great books.

Owls Nest Books, Calgary

With over 40 years in business, Owl’s Nest Book is Calgary’s oldest bookstore. They’ve got a great selection of books, as well as gifts, stationary, and toys, and they host several book clubs.

Audreys Books, Edmonton

Owned and operated by the husband and wife partnership, Audreys Books supports Canadian writers by offering an excellent book selection and by hosting readings and literary events.

Another Story, Toronto

Another Story sells a broad range of literature for children, young adults, and adults with a focus on themes of social justice, equity, and diversity. They’re also the official bookseller for The Festival of Literary Diversity.

A Different Booklist, Toronto

A multicultural bookstore, A Different Booklist specializes in books from the African Caribbean Diaspora and the Global South.

Lighthouse Books, Brighton

Established 1995, Lighthouse Books offers general, best sellers, nature, local, & children's books and specializes in Canadian authors.

Octopus Books, Ottawa

Octopus Books has a mission to promote conversations and the exchange of ideas through literature. In addition to their wonderful selection of books, they offer community events in support of emancipation and activism.

Westminster Books, Fredericton

Westminster Books has a friendly knowledgeable staff and a commitment to support local authors. They love kids’ books and offer both current titles and old favourites.

Woozles, Halifax

Woozles has been an important part of the Halifax community since 1978 and has launched several fun initiatives over the years, including Battle of the Books, in which elementary and junior high students test each other’s book knowledge, and the Woozle’s Writes! Writing Competition.

We’d love to hear about your favourite shops! Drop names or links in the comments and be sure to check out the many activities planned for the day.