It’s that grey and drizzly time of year again when nothing sounds better than curling up under a blanket with a cup of tea and a new book.
If you are looking for an opportunity to unwind yourself, prepare for the surprises these 7 independent bookstores in Victoria, have to offer!
Without further ado, here are some local gems to help you find your next rainy day read:
Russell Books
While Russell Books is an obvious go-to when you’re looking for books in Victoria, you might not have seen their most recent upgrade.
They marked the opening of their new and improved location by setting a world record and the store now has a larger capacity than ever before. Plus, take advantage of the buy-one-get-one sale on all used books at their old location until the end of November!
- Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. everyday including Holidays
- Location: 747 Fort Street
Legends Comics & Books
Legends Comics boasts an extensive and diverse variety of comics, graphic novels, and zines. Not sure where to start? Owner Gareth Gaudin will give you a recommendation!
- Hours: Sunday — Tuesday, 12 p.m. — 5 p.m.
Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. — 6 p.m.
Thursday — Saturday, 11 a.m. — 6 p.m. - Location: 633 Johnson Street
The Haunted Bookstore
Stop by Vancouver Island’s oldest antiquarian and find yourself surrounded by the “ghosts of all great literature.” You’re sure to find something there that you’ve never seen anywhere else.
- Hours: Monday — Sunday, 10 a.m. — 4 p.m., except Sunday 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
- Location: 9807 Third Street
James Bay Coffee & Books
If you want something to munch or sip while you hunt for your latest read, stop by James Bay Coffee & Books. They also sell records and CDs, plus there’s tea leaf readings on Sunday afternoons for those who wish to know their fate!
- Hours:
- Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday, 8:30 a.m. — 5 p.m.
- Location: 143 Menzies Street
Bastion Books
Tucked away in Commercial Alley, Bastion Books is a classic destination for used books both new and old. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Never fear — Bastion’s staff have a passion for uniting book lovers with exactly what they seek.
- Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday by appointment
- Location: 14 Bastion Square
Sorenson Books
Beyond books, Sorenson’s eclectic mix of vintage photographs, postcards, pin-up art and sheet music is sure to keep you endlessly entertained during the wettest time of year.
- Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed Sunday)
- Location: 1048 Fort Street
Little Free Libraries
Don’t have the money for a new book right now? No room to spare on your shelf? Stroll by one of Victoria’s 600+ little free libraries and swap one of your old volumes for a new-to-you read. Check out our article on how to find one of these libraries near you.
What are your favourite book nooks in town? Let us know in the comments below!
