Local Ottawa Bookstores to Shop & Support

It’s never a bad time to curl up with a book, but the long days at home paired with winter weather is making us especially crave a good book and a warm, cozy blanket. With most stores being closed for in-person shopping (at least for the time being), many locally owned, independent bookstores are still offering curbside pick up and shipping or delivery.

This means new and used books can be delivered to your door so you can comfortably stay home and your entire weekend can be booked in the best possible way.

Here are some local independent book stores in Ottawa that you can support (and we know local support for small businesses is needed now more than ever). And yes, while there are many books available for parents, you’ll find a great selection of children’s books at these shops as well.

Octopus Books

Where it’s located: 116 Third Avenue

For decades, Octopus Books has been serving bibliophiles in the Ottawa area, including students. Browse their curated lists of new and recommended books or order exactly what you need. Octopus Books has long worked with writers and while they currently aren’t able to continue with their special events, their focus on social justice remains a priority.

Singing Pebble Books

Where it’s located: 206 Main Street

Combining literature and spirituality, Singing Pebble Books offers a varied selection of fiction, non-fiction, astrology books, self-help titles, aromatherapy, and more. You can add journals, puzzles, and crystals to your orders. Plus, browse their bargain book selection for amazing deals.

Barely Bruised Books

Where it’s located: 315 Wilbrod Street, #2

Sell, trade, or buy books at Barely Bruised Books. Avid readers and casual browsers will want to follow them on social media to shop while stores are still closed. When you see a book you covet on their shelves from their social media photos, don’t wait to place your order for one of their new or used selections. We also love that they offer free books to children! Discounts are offered to students too.

Black Squirrel Books

Where it’s located: 1073 Bank Street

The used and new book shop is usually also home to an amazing café (when things are back to ‘normal’, we highly recommend you stop in to not only browse the books but also grab a delicious cup of coffee and a snack!) and during the pandemic they have continued to ensure book lovers don’t go without. You can order from their website, or contact them to set aside an item you see shared on their social media. Keep an eye out for their mystery boxes where you can order a surprise set of books (usually based on genre).

Mill Street Books

Where it’s located: 52 Mill Street, Almonte

Located just outside of Ottawa in the quaint town of Almonte is Mill Street Books. This locally owned shop is where patrons can find the perfect book for themselves, their children, or as a gift. In addition, there is usually a uniquely curated set of music records and gifts to browse through. Local authors are often featured. Online shopping is currently available.

Books and Nooks

Where it’s located: 1499 Carronbridge Circle

Part book store and part gift shop, online shopping is easy with Books and Nooks. Browse their selection of books and book-related gifts for adults and kids, but don’t miss out on the book bundles which include a new read for you to enjoy, plus cozy items to help get through the long winter days.

Bonus: Not sure what to read next? We have a list of winter reading suggestions!