Best hidden book shops in Montreal
Sometimes all you want to do is curl up on the couch and read a book (and not an e-book might I add). If you’re looking to relax with a paperback in hand this weekend, I highly recommend checking out the book stores below. It’s not that Indigo isn’t great, but the hidden Montreal bookshops on this list have a little more charm and character than your average commercial book store.
Here are the best hidden book shops in Montreal:
The Word
A popular spots among McGill students, The Word is a tiny second-hand bookshop tucked into the McGill Ghetto. Specializing in literature, poetry, and philosophy, the cluttered book shop dates back to the 19th century and is a great place if you’re looking to bury yourself in a pile of books for a few hours. Beware, the shop is cash only.
Where: 469 Rue Milton
Argo Bookshop
Argo Bookshop is as old as it gets for English bookstores in Montreal. Despite its small size, the shelves of Argo Bookshop are stocked with thousands of books, including some of the best literary theory books in the city. Park yourself in one of their giant armchairs and get comfy.
Where: 1915 Rue Sainte Catherine Est
Librairie Drawn & Quarterly
Librairie Drawn & Quarterly houses a rather eclectic collection of books, so eclectic in fact that you likely haven’t heard of any of the books in there. Looking for a brand new read that might totally change your world? I would head to this Mile End bookshop. Oh, and if books aren’t your thing, this bookshop is also home to a great collection of comic books, graphic novels, and art books.
Where: 211 Rue Bernard Ouest
Paragraphe Bookstore
A stone’s throw away from Montreal’s downtown Indigo, Paragraphe Bookstore is a great alternative if you’re looking for a less commercial, slightly quieter bookstore. Specializing in academic books thanks to the McGill campus located across the street, Paragraphe is home to over 50,000 books. Rest assured, even if you’re not a history buff Paragraphe boasts an impressive collection of fiction, travel, and children’s literature.
Where: 2220 Avenue McGill College
Encore Books
Encore Books is a community book and record shop located in the heart of Montreal’s NDG. In addition to an impressive collection of second-hand books and records, Encore Books boasts CDs, DVDs, and their very own print and design studio.
Where: 5670 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest
S W Welch Bookseller
S W Welch is one of Montreal’s literary landmarks. Known for their special editions and signed copies of classics, S W Welch is a cozy book nook (complete with giant leather couch) in the Mile End. Plus, this quaint book shop is conveniently located down the street from Saint Viateur Bagel, so once you’ve picked out the perfect book at S W Welch you can head on over to Saint Viateur for some delicious Montreal-style bagels.
Where: 225 Rue Saint Viateur Ouest
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