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The 16 Best Bookstores in Toronto

Delve into Toronto's rich literary scene with diverse bookstores located across the city. Whether you're an avid reader hunting for a unique find, or a casual shopper looking for a new read, these 16 best bookstores in Toronto offer something for everyone.

Our comprehensive selection aims to provide a easeful experience in identifying the perfect bookstore nearby. Expect a blend of both large chains and independent establishments, each boasting an array of offerings catered to individual reading tastes.

Before we dive into the list of The 16 Best Bookstores in Toronto, consider these aspects while choosing your ideal bookstore for your next literary adventure.

How this list is ordered

We kept the bookstores in Toronto with a strong reputation among their customers and put the most dedicated ones first, also looking at how each presents its work on its own website.

Featured positions are clearly marked and only offered to businesses that already earned their place in the guide.

Top 3Every optionMapChoosing well

Compare the 16 local options

Queen Books, Toronto#1
Why it stands out
  • Beautiful bookstore with friendly and helpful staff

  • Great selection of books, magazines, and gifts

  • Cozy atmosphere and wonderful customer service

Queen Books

4.8350 reviews
914 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1J5, Canada

Queen Books is a charming book store located in Toronto, Canada. They offer a variety of service options such as delivery, in-store pick-up, and in-store shopping. The store is known for its wheelchair-accessible entrance making it accessible to all customers. Accepted payment methods include credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

With a rating of 4.8 stars, customers have left glowing reviews about Queen Books. Some key points from the reviews include:

Customers have mentioned their love for the artsy finds, the welcoming vibe of the store, and the dedication of the staff in helping them find the perfect book. Queen Books is a must-visit for book lovers in Toronto!

Bakka-Phoenix Books, Toronto#2
Why it stands out
  • Experts in science fiction and fantasy genres

  • Helpful and welcoming staff members

  • Great selection of books

  • Convenient location in the university district

Bakka-Phoenix Books

4.8332 reviews
84 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M5S 1G5, Canada

Bakka-Phoenix Books is a top-notch bookstore located in Toronto, Canada, known for its excellent service and diverse selection of science fiction and fantasy books. The store provides various services such as Kerbside pickup, Delivery, In-store pick-up, and In-store shopping, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable experience for customers.

Customer reviews rave about the knowledgeable and friendly staff who offer fantastic book recommendations. Some key points highlighted by customers include:

Don't miss out on the opportunity to visit Bakka-Phoenix Books and immerse yourself in a world of literary wonders!

Another Story Bookshop, Toronto#3
Why it stands out
  • Attending a book launch event was a delightful experience, with easy online ordering and in-store pick-up for book signings.

  • First-time visitors were impressed by the amazing selection and kindness of the booksellers.

  • Customers appreciated the unique curation of left-leaning books and the sense of community engagement at the store.

Another Story Bookshop

4.8293 reviews
315 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, ON M6R 2M6, Canada

Another Story Bookshop is a gem for book lovers in Toronto. This bookstore offers a variety of service options, including kerbside pickup, delivery, in-store pick-up, and in-store shopping. The shop is known for its welcoming atmosphere and inclusive environment, making it a LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space for all customers.

Customers rave about the selection of books and the helpful, friendly staff at Another Story Bookshop. Some key points from their reviews include:

These customer reviews showcase the love and appreciation for Another Story Bookshop, making it a must-visit for book enthusiasts looking for a diverse and inclusive bookstore experience.

A Different Booklist, Toronto#4
Why it stands out
  • This store has a great selection of books for different age groups.

  • The staff is incredibly helpful and kind, providing excellent customer service.

  • Customers appreciate the inclusive atmosphere and the focus on social justice in the book selection.

  • A welcoming space with a community vibe that keeps customers coming back for more.

A Different Booklist

4.8233 reviews
779 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5S 0B7, Canada

A Different Booklist is a renowned book store located in Toronto, Canada. This bookstore offers a wide array of books for every age demographic, focusing on social justice issues and inclusive fiction. The friendly and helpful staff make the shopping experience enjoyable for all customers.

Whether you are looking for a specific book or just want to browse and discover something new, A Different Booklist is the place to be. Visit their website for more information on their services and events!

BMV Books, Toronto#5
Why it stands out
  • A huge variety of books with fair prices

  • Helpful and knowledgeable staff

  • Wide-ranging selection of books, including children's books and foreign language titles

BMV Books

4.73,257 reviews
471 Bloor Street West (Bloor and Brunswick, between Bathurst and, Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5S 1X9, Canada

BMV Books is a beloved bookstore located in Toronto that offers a wide range of titles at good prices. Customers have praised the store for its organized and clean layout, although some have mentioned that the staff could be more friendly. The bookstore spans multiple levels and features a vast selection of both new and used books, including children's books, graphic novels, and foreign language titles.

Whether you're looking for a specific title or just want to browse, BMV Books is a reliable spot to find your next favorite read. Make sure to check out their collection of vinyl as well for the music enthusiasts out there!

Glad Day Bookshop, Toronto#6
Why it stands out
  • Loved the vibes and the history of the Glad Day Bookshop. Drinks were tasty and strong, and the bartender was nice and made the best drinks.

  • This is one of my favourite bookshops! They have both new books and used books as well as a selection of other items including pins, patches, cards, and food/drinks.

  • Beautiful historic gem in the village. Oldest LGBTQ+ bookstore. The atmosphere here feels very welcoming and upbeat.

  • Nice and organized place with friendly staff. It can get a bit loud when group activities are taking place, but the staff and performers are incredibly friendly.

Glad Day Bookshop

4.71,276 reviews
499 Church St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2C6, Canada

Glad Day Bookshop is a beloved establishment in Toronto, offering a wide array of books and other products catering to its diverse clientele. With a rating of 4.7 stars based on 1276 reviews, this book store has garnered praise for several key points:

Customers have highlighted the accessibility options available at Glad Day Bookshop, including wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and toilet. Additionally, the various service options such as delivery, in-store pick-up, and in-store shopping make for a convenient shopping experience. The broad range of payment methods accepted, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, ensures that customers can easily make their purchases. Visit Glad Day Bookshop for a unique and inclusive shopping experience in the heart of Toronto.

Doug Miller Books, Toronto#7
Why it stands out
  • Customers love the cozy and welcoming atmosphere that encourages them to get lost among the well-curated selection of books.

  • The Lego section is a standout feature that bridges the gap between playful creativity and intellectual stimulation.

  • Visitors appreciate the affordable prices, vast selection of books, and the friendly and helpful nature of the owner, Doug.

  • The store is praised for its unique and inspirational space that celebrates passions for reading and building, making it a magical destination for book lovers and Lego enthusiasts alike.

Doug Miller Books

4.7420 reviews
650 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G 1K9, Canada

Doug Miller Books is a beloved used book store located in Toronto that has garnered a stellar reputation for its unique offerings and cozy atmosphere. The store is renowned for its well-curated selection of books spanning different eras, creating a literary wonderland for book lovers to explore. One standout feature of the store is the Lego section, which appeals to both young builders and adult collectors, providing a creative and playful experience alongside the intellectual stimulation of reading.

Customer reviews rave about the delightful blend of books and Legos at Doug Miller Books, emphasizing the inspirational and imaginative environment the store fosters. Visitors appreciate the welcoming and friendly atmosphere, with many noting the vast selection of books, affordable prices, and the helpful and cheerful owner, Doug. Here are some summarized key points from customer reviews:

Type Books, Toronto#8
Why it stands out
  • Lovely cozy book store with a great selection.

  • Super cute little indy bookstore with a quaint and cozy atmosphere.

  • Beautifully decorated store with plenty of great books and friendly staff.

  • Amazing variety of texts and engaging, knowledgeable associates.

Type Books

4.7383 reviews
883 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1G5, Canada

Type Books is a charming bookstore located in Toronto, Canada. With a rating of 4.7 stars, it's evident that customers are delighted with the experience. The bookstore offers in-store pick-up and various payment options, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Customers have left glowing reviews for Type Books:

However, some customers mentioned that the store could improve its collection and atmosphere. Despite this, many are drawn to the easy-to-browse layout and decent selection. Whether you're a book lover or looking for a cozy spot to browse, Type Books is a must-visit in Toronto!

Seekers Books, Toronto#9
Why it stands out
  • A diverse and impressive selection of books on all subjects

  • Reasonably priced items

  • Owner is very knowledgeable and friendly

  • Cute ginger cat adds to the cozy atmosphere

Seekers Books

4.7493 reviews
509 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1Y2, Canada

Seekers Books is a charming book store located in Toronto that has captured the hearts of book lovers near and far. With a wide selection of books on various subjects at reasonable prices, customers are sure to find hidden literary treasures. The knowledgeable owner is always ready to assist and guide visitors through the vast collection.

Book City, Toronto#10
Why it stands out
  • A cozy chain of neighborhood-oriented bookstores with excellent discounted prices on publisher remainders.

  • Knowledgeable and friendly staff who are passionate about books.

  • Clean and welcoming environment that encourages browsing and book buying.

  • Great selection of books and magazines.

Book City

4.7225 reviews
2354 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6S 1P3, Canada

Book City is a charming neighborhood bookstore located in Toronto. They offer a variety of service options such as kerbside pickup, delivery, in-store pick-up, and in-store shopping. The bookstore is known for its constantly changing stock of publisher remainders at discounted prices. Customers love the cozy ambiance and the knowledgeable staff that truly appreciate books.

BMV Books, Toronto#11
Why it stands out
  • One customer mentioned finding 4 books for $50, highlighting the great prices.

  • Another reviewer praised the store for having all volumes of Stephen King's Dark Tower series in stock during their visit.

  • Visitors appreciate the amazing selection of books, graphic novels, DVDs, Blu-rays, action figures, and model kits available.

  • Many customers mention the excellent value and quality of books at BMV Books, making it a must-visit location for book enthusiasts.

BMV Books

4.61,110 reviews
10 Edward St, Toronto, ON M5G 1C9, Canada

BMV Books is a beloved book store located in Toronto, Canada. This cozy spot offers a wide variety of new and used books, including a huge collection of comics and graphic novels. Customers rave about the friendly service and well-maintained stock, making it a go-to destination for book lovers.

Book City, Toronto#12
Why it stands out
  • The store is well-organized with interesting and thematically appropriate book displays.

  • Customers find the staff friendly, helpful, and great at making recommendations.

  • Visitors appreciate the store's eclectic selection of books and the welcoming atmosphere.

  • Despite some higher prices, customers value the local and independent nature of the bookstore.

Book City

4.6281 reviews
348 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1N8, Canada

Book City is a beloved bookstore located at 348 Danforth Ave, Toronto, offering a wide range of services. Customers can enjoy kerbside pickup, delivery, in-store pick-up, in-store shopping, and even same-day delivery. The store is easily accessible with a wheelchair-accessible entrance.

With a stellar rating of 4.6 based on 281 reviews, it's evident that customers have had an exceptional experience at Book City.

Book City is not just a bookstore, but a community hub where book lovers can explore and discover new literary treasures. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a world of books and stories.

Ben McNally Books, Toronto#13
Why it stands out
  • Lovely, interesting curation of books with knowledgeable and kind staff.

  • Unique selection of fiction and non-fiction titles.

  • Great location with a peaceful atmosphere and friendly staff.

  • Contactless shopping with delivery and pick-up options.

Ben McNally Books

4.6270 reviews
108 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1S4, Canada

Ben McNally Books is a charming independent bookstore located in the heart of Toronto. Known for their service options like kerbside pickup, delivery, in-store pick-up, and same-day delivery, they cater to every book lover's needs. Customers appreciate the well-curated selection of books that go beyond the usual bestsellers.

ABC Book Store, Toronto#14
Why it stands out
  • The store is pretty cool with a wide variety of books at great prices. The staff is very helpful.

  • Customers love browsing the titles for hours and appreciate the owner who is happy to chat and engage in banter.

  • A customer mentioned purchasing 3 leather-bound books from the 1800s and early 1900s at more than fair prices.

  • Another customer recommends the store for its great selection of used books, modern titles, impressive DVD, and manga collection.

ABC Book Store

4.4431 reviews
662 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2A6, Canada

ABC Book Store is a beloved book store located in Toronto, offering a wide variety of books at great prices. Customers have praised the helpful and polite staff who are always ready to assist. Despite being compact, the store is well-organized with an extensive selection of movies, books, and magazines.

If you are a book lover in Toronto, ABC Book Store is definitely worth a visit for a delightful shopping experience!

Nile Valley Books, Toronto#15
Why it stands out
  • A cultural oasis for educational and children's books

  • Excellent customer service and warm, friendly ambiance

  • Great place for books on history, culture, and entertainment

  • Knowledge hub with information on the African Diaspora

Nile Valley Books

4.716 reviews
1921 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M4L 2C2, Canada

Nile Valley Books is a book store located in Toronto, Canada, offering a range of service options such as in-store pick-up and shopping. The store has a Wheelchair-accessible entrance, making it accessible to all customers. Accepted payment methods include credit cards and debit cards.

Customers have praised Nile Valley Books for its exceptional service and unique collection. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.7 out of 5, customers appreciate the diverse selection of books available at Nile Valley Books and commend the knowledgeable owner for their assistance. Whether you're looking for a specific title or simply browsing, this bookstore is sure to offer a memorable experience.

University of Toronto Bookstore#16
Why it stands out
  • The store has expanded its merchandise lineups over the years, now offering a variety of collaborations and products

  • Customers appreciate the mid-range prices and the refund or exchange policies for most clothing apparel

  • Visitors enjoy the spacious store, good variety of products, and the friendly and helpful staff

  • Some customers feel that the quality of clothing has declined over the years, while others find the prices too high for student budgets

University of Toronto Bookstore

4.21,638 reviews
214 College St, Toronto, ON M5T 3A1, Canada

University of Toronto Bookstore is a renowned book store located in Toronto, Canada. Customers have praised the store for its wide selection of merchandise, including items from collaborations with OVO, Under Armour, and Roots. The store is a one-stop solution for UofT students, faculty, and more, offering everything from pencils and notebooks to UofT merch.

If you're looking for not just books but also a huge number of UoT souvenirs and merchandise, be sure to check out the University of Toronto Bookstore!

The essentials in one table

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Queen Books 4.8350
#2Bakka-Phoenix Books 4.8332
#3Another Story Bookshop 4.8293
#4A Different Booklist 4.8233
#5BMV Books 4.73,257
#6Glad Day Bookshop 4.71,276
#7Doug Miller Books 4.7420
#8Type Books 4.7383
#9Seekers Books 4.7493
#10Book City 4.7225
#11BMV Books 4.61,110
#12Book City 4.6281
#13Ben McNally Books 4.6270
#14ABC Book Store 4.4431
#15Nile Valley Books 4.716
#16University of Toronto Bookstore 4.21,638

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Map of Bookstores in Toronto

The following is a comprehensive guide to all the literary havens in Canada's cultural hub, Toronto. Whether you're a bibliophile looking for a rare find or simply in need of a quiet place to relax, this map of all bookstores in Toronto has you covered. Dive into our leading selection and find your next favorite spot.

How to compare Bookstores in Toronto

  1. Range of book genres and authors.
  2. Limited edition books and rare print-outs.
  3. Availability of both new and second-hand books.
  4. Niche market offerings - graphic novels, comics, zines and more.
  5. Community-focused activities - book clubs, author readings and signing events.
  6. Convenience of location - proximity to public transport and parking facilities.
  7. Ambience - comforting and inspiring spaces for reading.

Your questions answered

What are the most popular bookstores in Toronto?

Toronto is home to a wide array of bookstores catering to all interests and preferences. Some of the most popular bookstores in the city include Indigo, which offers a vast selection of books, magazines, and stationery products, and Bakka-Phoenix Books, a renowned science fiction and fantasy bookstore. Other favorites among locals and tourists alike include Ben McNally Books, known for its curated selection of fiction and non-fiction titles, and The Monkey's Paw, a quirky bookstore specializing in rare and unusual books.

Do bookstores in Toronto host author events and book signings?

Many Toronto bookstores regularly host author events, book signings, and readings, providing book lovers with the opportunity to meet their favorite writers and discover new talent. Popular bookstores such as Type Books and Another Story Bookshop often feature author talks and signings, while larger chains like Indigo and Chapters also host events with well-known authors. Keep an eye on bookstore websites and social media pages for upcoming events in Toronto and make sure to reserve your spot in advance.

Are there any independent bookstores in Toronto?

In addition to the larger chain bookstores, Toronto is also home to a vibrant community of independent bookstores that offer unique and specialized selections of books. Independent bookstores such as Book City, with multiple locations across the city, and Diesel Cafe + Bookstore, which combines a bookstore with a cafe, provide a more personalized shopping experience and are great places to discover hidden gems. Whether you're looking for rare books, niche genres, or locally-produced titles, independent bookstores in Toronto have something for everyone.

Do bookstores in Toronto offer online shopping and delivery?

Many bookstores in Toronto offer online shopping options for customers who prefer to browse and purchase books from the comfort of their own homes. Popular bookstores like Indigo and Chapters have extensive online catalogs where you can order books for delivery or in-store pickup. Independent bookstores such as Mabel's Fables and The Beguiling also offer online shopping services, allowing you to support local businesses while enjoying the convenience of shopping online. Check bookstore websites for details on delivery options and shipping fees.

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