Photo via Shelf Life Books
Whether you’re stocking your home library, keeping up with book club, or getting your hands on that long-awaited release (less than a month until the new Hunger Games prequel!), there’s something special about owning a book. And let’s be real: most of that magic comes from being in a bookstore.
What’s great about living in a big city like Calgary is that there’s no shortage of independent bookstores to shop from. You’re still getting the book you want, but this way that money is going to a local business instead of a billionaire. Plus, the staff usually have great recommendations that turn a good shopping experience into a great one.
As a self-proclaimed book lover (and recovering book buyer — don’t let me purchase anything else until I read what I have!) I’m well-versed in Calgary bookstores. Here are six of my favourites.
This independent bookshop has two locations in Inglewood and Chinook, specializing entirely in gently-used secondhand reads. It’s great for readers looking to reduce their consumption, save money, and discover something new.
Even if you’re not into used books (couldn’t be me — I’ve literally spent hours in there), it’s worth checking out for popular picks on your TBR. Because really, there’s no need to buy a new copy of Game of Thrones in the year 2025.
Where: 907 9 Ave SE & 104 61 Ave SW
Owl’s Nest Books is Calgary’s oldest bookstore and is, in my opinion, criminally underrated. This quaint Brittania shop features new titles, English and French books, local authors, puzzles, games, and chocolates.
And if the southwest store isn’t in your neck of the woods, Owl’s Nest Books offers free delivery within Calgary.
Where: 815a 49 Ave SW
Instagram: @owlsnestbooks
The layout of this Kensington bookstore is unbeatable. Upstairs, you’ll find non-fiction books and poetry. On the main level, fiction and children’s literature. And then the basement is where the magic happens: rows upon rows of used novels sold for a fraction of the new price.
Once you’ve got your new (or old) book picked out, head to one of the nearby cafes for a main-character moment as you read and enjoy a warm beverage.
Where: 1135 Kensington Rd NW
Instagram: @pagesbooks
Located downtown across from the Sheldon Chumiur Centre, Shelf Life is known for its unbeatable collection of books, puzzles, and stationery. The featured tables are always curated so nicely, be it by colour or topic, and I’ve found some of my favourite under-the-radar reads there thanks to staff recommendations.
They also host local writing and reading events, which I love to see! It’s something special when a business is willing to support the community that supports them.
Where: 1302 4 St SW #100
Instagram: @shelflifebooks
Slow Burn Books may be new(ish) to the Calgary indie bookstore scene, but they’ve already made their mark on romance readers throughout the city. While they sell basically every romance subgenre and trope under the sun (friends to lovers, anyone?), they also host book signings, author talks, book clubs, writing workshops, and other community events.
The result is a welcoming space that makes readers and indie authors alike feel as though they’re among friends.
Where: 1934 34 Ave SW #115
Instagram: @slowburn.booksyyc
Imagine the bookstore of your dreams. Does it include floor-to-ceiling shelves, rolling ladders, and a delectable coffee station? You might be picturing The Next Page, an Inglewood staple among book lovers.
While the main floor is amazing enough as is, those who venture downstairs will be met with countless used books, a plant seed library, and a hidden theatre. Let’s just say, it’s easy to lose track of time down there!
Where: 1217A 9th Ave SE
Instagram: @thenextpageyyc
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