Amelia HallIf you’re a bookworm like me, you’ll be glad to know that Vancouver isn’t just famed for its breathtaking mountains and harbours—it also has an incredibly lively and diverse literary scene.
In every nook and cranny, you’ll find unique bookshops waiting to transport you into different worlds! Ranging from chic and modern indies to charmingly chaotic second-hand bookstores, there’s a haven for every bibliophile here.
So read on to our list of the top must-visit bookshops in Vancouver and delve into the heart of the city’s literary delights!
Banyen Books & Sound
Website: https://www.banyen.com/
Address: 3608 W 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6R 1P1, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-732-7912
Operating hours:
- Monday – 1 PM to 7 PM
- Tuesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 7 PM
Banyen Books & Sound isn’t your run-of-the-mill bookstore; it’s a sanctuary of wisdom, wellness, and spirituality. For over 50 years, they’ve been offering tools for spiritual growth and healing arts—a bookstore, an events space, and a community centre.
The space is filled with all sorts of goodies, including books, obviously, but also music, crystals, incense, calendars, greeting cards, and more. They even host free events where some authors worldwide share their wisdom on various spiritual principles.
| Pro tip: Try to visit on a Sunday, when they often have in-store events like book signings, lectures, and workshops. If you’re in the mood for some good food afterwards, head over to Las Margaritas for some quality Mexican nosh, only a few blocks away. |
The Paper Hound Bookshop
Website: http://paperhound.ca/
Address: 344 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1T1, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-428-1344
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
The Paper Hound Bookshop aims to blur the line between new and used, in-stock and out-of-print, popular and obscure. Their specialty is in their fantastic selection of antique and rare books, each with its own story.
But occasionally, you’ll also stumble across quirky items like graphic novels and zines. What sets The Paper Hound apart is its intimate, calm atmosphere, which acts as a respite from the bustling city life outside.
| Pro tip: Parking can be a bit tricky downtown; consider public transportation. If you feel peckish after getting your book fix, check out Bambo Café just across the street for a quick bite to eat. |
MacLeod’s Books
Website: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=126095490890770
Address: 455 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2Z3, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-681-7654
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 5:30 PM
MacLeod’s Books is a Vancouver institution, a treasure trove for book enthusiasts. The bookstore brims with an almost overwhelming variety of books, stacked everywhere from floor to ceiling—a paradise for any passionate bookworm.
You’ll find here a massive collection of used and out-of-print books ranging from literature to history, art, classics, and even a sizable section of Canadian authors. Browsing here can be like a treasure hunt; you never know what jewels you might find.
| Pro tip: MacLeod’s doesn’t accept cards, so remember to bring some cash. After your book hunt, you can head over to Cacao 70, a sweet shop down the road, for something sweet to complement your sweet find. |
Massy Books
Website: http://www.massybooks.com/
Address: 229 E Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1Z6, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-721-4405
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Massy Books, located in Chinatown, isn’t just about selling books. It’s a 100% Indigenous-owned and operated bookstore, a key aspect of their beautiful initiative.
In addition to a diverse collection of books, the store also hosts literary events, art exhibits, and book clubs. And, up the quiet staircase, you’ll find a secondhand section, complete with comfortable reading nooks and a cute little children’s corner.
| Pro tip: If you visit during the weekend, The Union, a pan-Asian place with killer cocktails, is just a few doors down and offers a mean Sunday brunch. There’s also the vibrant marketplace full of wares, crafts, clothes, and such at Pigeon Park every Sunday, worth checking out. |
Pulpfiction Books
Website: http://pulpfictionbooksvancouver.com/
Address: 2422 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3E2, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-876-4311
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 7 PM
Pulpfiction Books is one of the largest independent secondhand bookstores in the city of Vancouver. For nearly 20 years, this bookshop has been a constant source of joy for readers with its towering stacks of books and eclectic atmosphere.
With a stock of nearly 80,000 titles, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. The friendly, knowledgeable staff here is also always ready to help or give a good recommendation.
| Pro tip: If you plan a weekend trip to Pulpfiction, be sure to have brunch at the nearby Wallflower Modern Diner. |
Book Warehouse
Website: http://www.bookwarehouse.ca/
Address: 632 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1G1, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-872-5711
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
What’s not to love about Book Warehouse, a mini-chain of shops that has been in and around Vancouver since 1980? You’ll find books on every shelf, stacked on tables, and sometimes even a few stray ones peeking out from under chairs.
Book Warehouse is a general-interest bookstore with plenty of titles from all genres. Notably, they also have a neat selection of gift items and stationery that adds to the shop’s allure.
| Pro tip: If a sudden hunger pang hits you after shopping, head over to Moderne Burger, just a few blocks away, for a delicious meal. |
Tanglewood Books
Website: http://www.tanglewoodbooks.ca/
Address: 2306 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6K 2E6, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-736-8876
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 6 PM
Effortlessly cool and whimsical, Tanglewood Books is one of those bookstores where time seems to stretch and bend. It’s famous for its selection of used books ranging from classic literature to modern novels, children’s books, cookery, history, and more.
The beauty of this bookstore lies in its atmosphere—think almost labyrinth-like aisles filled with stacks upon stacks of second-hand books. Probably its charm is in the details, proof of which is their Little Free Library installed right outside the store.
| Pro tip: The Kits neighbourhood has a lot of parking available nearby, so that’s one less thing to worry about. After you visit Tanglewood, you can slip right into the Stormcrow Alehouse nearby for a pint and a nice ‘n’ easy meal. |
Canterbury Tales Bookstore
Website: http://www.canterburytales.ca/
Address: 2010 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A9, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-568-3511
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday, Thursday to Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 6 PM
With a name inspired by Chaucer’s famous tale, the Canterbury Tales Bookstore in the Commercial Drive area is a must-visit. The welcoming, personality-filled shop specialises in used books and has been a local favourite since 1996!
Stepping here is like stepping into a different world, one filled with fictional stories and real histories packed into pre-loved books. You could get lost among the stacks and wouldn’t mind it, I assure you.
| Pro tip: No cards are accepted here, so remember to bring some cash! Post your Canterbury Tales visit, you should grab a coffee at Café Deux Soleils just around the corner, their vegan-friendly menu is quite the rage. |
Spartacus Books
Website: https://spartacusbooks.net/
Address: 1983 Commercial Dr #101, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A8, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-688-6138
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 8:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 11 AM to 7 PM
Spartacus Books is a volunteer-run, non-profit bookstore and resource centre that is all sorts of unique and promises to leave you inspired. Spartacus boasts a vast collection of books that may not be super common in other bookstores.
With subjects ranging from anarchism to Zen Buddhism, social justice, LGBTQ+ literature, and more, it’s easy to find something new, and thought-provoking each visit. They also stock magazines, zines, journals, CDs, and DVDs.
| Pro tip: Remember to check out their free box and their bargain section for some surprisingly cool finds. And if you need a caffeine fix after your visit, head over to Nemesis Coffee, located just a block away. |
Iron Dog Books
Website: http://www.irondogbooks.com/
Address: 2671 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 1Z5, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-215-8807
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Iron Dog Books is an indigenous-owned bookstore that stands out with its unique book truck that’s parked on the SFU Burnaby Campus. Yes, you heard that right: it’s a book truck!
Aside from their mobile service, they also have a straight-out-of-a-story brick-and-mortar store located on East Hastings Street. They’ve got a wholesome selection of Indigenous and Canadian literature, educational materials, and general fiction.
| Pro tip: If you visit their physical store, be sure to check out the adorable nearby Nanaimo Park. After your book shopping, reward yourself with some Italian delicacies at the nearby Red Burrito to load up on your intellect’s nutrition. |
Little Sister’s Book & Art Emporium
Website: http://littlesisters.ca/
Address: 1238 Davie St #1, Vancouver, BC V6E 1N3, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-669-1753
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM
Nestled in the heart of Vancouver’s West End, Little Sister’s Book & Art Emporium is a charming oasis for book lovers (since 1983!) with a specialty focus on LGBTQ+ literature. It has a fantastic selection of books that cater to its niche audience.
Alongside books, there’s a playful yet tasteful selection of small gifts, greeting cards, and local art that adds a touch of whimsy to the store. Add to that their knowledgeable and genuinely friendly staff, so it’s a delightful and inclusive shopping experience.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to check out their Staff Picks section for a curated list of interesting titles. After your visit, take a stroll down to the nearby English Bay and dig into a delicious Japadog from their famous on-site stand. |
Carson Books & Records
– Media credit: nicole.violet.ly
Website: https://carsonbooks.ca/
Address: 4340 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3P9, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-222-8787
Operating hours:
- Monday, Thursday – 11 AM to 8 PM
- Tuesday – 12 PM to 5:30 PM
- Wednesday – 11 AM to 7:30 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 8 PM
Located in the bustling area of Kitsilano, Carson Books & Records is a mecca for both bookworms and vinyl aficionados. This gem of a store is crammed full of pre-loved books, records, and CDs, offering a treasure trove of goodies to explore.
Upon entering, you’re greeted with shelves lining every nook and cranny, with everything from classic literature and modern fiction to non-fiction books. There’s also a fantastic collection of records here, ranging from old-school rock to contemporary indie.
| Pro tip: They occasionally have sales on their books and records, so keep an eye out for those. Once you’re done browsing, head over to the nearby Rain Or Shine for some delectable ice cream. |
People’s Co-Op Bookstore
Website: http://www.peoplescoopbookstore.com/
Address: 1391 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5L 3X5, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-253-6442
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 6 PM
People’s Co-Op Bookstore, located on Commercial Drive, prides itself on being Canada’s longest-running cooperative bookstore. Established in 1945, this cosy little store is packed with history and character.
It has a well-curated collection of progressive, political, and radical literature, alongside a variety of general fiction and non-fiction titles. What’s more, the store not only sells books but also hosts various events, poetry readings, and book clubs.
| Pro tip: They also have an excellent kids section worth checking out. And don’t miss out on an opportunity to grab a slice from Via Tevere Pizzeria, just a few feet away from the bookstore. |
Hager Books
– Media credit: kerrisdalebusinessassociation
Website: https://hagerbooks.ca/
Address: 2176 W 41st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6M 1Z1, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-263-9412
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 5 PM
Hager Books is that quaint bookstore you’d love to stumble upon on a leisurely afternoon. This independent neighbourhood gem has been a favourite among locals since 1974 and offers an inviting space to browse through books.
This place features a broad collection of titles ranging from fiction and non-fiction to children’s books and cookbook. Hager Books also has a delightful stationery section where you can find exquisite greeting cards and notebooks.
| Pro tip: Street parking is available but can be tricky during peak hours, so you may want to consider alternative methods of transportation. After visiting Hager Books, pop into Butter Baked Goods for some delightful treats. |
Upstart & Crow
Website: https://upstartandcrow.com/
Address: 1387 Railspur Alley, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R7, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-558-1124
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, 2 PM to 5:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 10 AM to 1:30 PM, 2 PM to 5:30 PM
It isn’t every day you stumble upon a bookstore in a heritage building, but Upstart & Crow, located in Gastown, is precisely that. And let me tell you, this bookstore manages to beautifully combine books with art, exclusive prints, and well-crafted goods.
The selection of books here is a mix of contemporary fiction, non-fiction, and coffee table books. Their books are displayed alongside local art, handmade ceramics, and other tasteful wares that highlight the store’s innate creativity.
| Pro tip: The cobblestone streets of Gastown are worth exploring after your visit. Plus, don’t miss out on the opportunity to indulge in some delicious Italian fare at Di Beppe, just a short walk from the store. |
