Famed Author Stephen King said it best: "Books are a uniquely portable magic." Here in the Forest City, that magic is everywhere! Whether you’re into non-fiction, fantasy, mystery or the macabre, London’s thriving bookshop scene has something for every bookworm.
From downtown to beyond, these local gems are packed with reads to suit every age, topic and taste. Dive into some of our favorite spots below!
Brown & Dickson Bookstore
Found alongside a number of like-minded vendors in the Elias Street locale, Brown & Dickson is not only owned and operated by book lovers, but book writers as well. Published authors Vanessa Brown and Jason Dickson offer up several uncommon and charming used selections: including offbeat pulps, fine literature, artist's books, local history, counterculture, quirky non-fiction, rare scholarly books and comix – as well as a wide selection of general books. In addition, the shop’s bookmobile travels around the city and province visiting festivals, events, local fairs, markets and literary readings.
The Book Addict
Those searching for adventure, dreams, romance, drama or real-life experiences need look no further! Serving the London area for over 27 years, The Book Addict specializes in a wide range of used books books, novels, paperbacks, short stories, biographies and more. As if this wasn’t reason enough to visit, The Book Addict has also been the set for not one, but two music video shoots, featuring some of the city’s brightest local talent, Tina Powell and Justin Maki, respectively.
Mystic Bookshop
An Old East Village staple for over 30 years, The Mystic Bookshop sells new and used books on witchcraft, herbs and all things occult. The shop also carries gemstones, runestones, candles, incense and other mystical accessories. Visitors can even get a preview into the next chapter of their own life, with a tarot reading or by purchasing a deck of their own.
Bread and Roses Books
Found in the heart of the Market at Western Fair District on Saturdays and Sundays, Bread and Roses Books offers new and used books with traditional genres, radical readings and literature on social justice, contemporary and vintage cookbooks, gardening and crafting reads and paper ephemera products. After picking up your fresh market finds, why not stroll over and browse their unique collection? A good book makes the perfect companion to round out your weekend outing – so you can sit back, relax and curl up with a great read.
Cardinal Books
For those interested in used and rare books, Cardinal Books boasts an impressive selection of coveted and out-of-print titles. While the shop does the majority of its business online, avid readers are encouraged to visit their shop located in the 19th century Old Birr Village. Step inside this one-room schoolhouse to explore an impressive selection of 19th and 20th century first editions, collectible literature and illustrated or juvenile books. You'll also find works on art, architecture and history, with a particular focus on philosophy and theology.
City Lights Bookshop
Since 1975 the walls of City Lights Bookshop have been lined with sci-fi, new age, Indigenous works, philosophy, graphic novels and comic books, not to mention a broad selection of cultural ephemera including vintage erotica, turn-of-the-century sheet music, antique memorabilia, vinyl, movies and more. We encourage you to explore their labyrinthine aisles, you never know what treasures you might unearth!
Attic Books
With 44 years of business as one of Canada’s largest used bookstores, Attic Books boasts three floors of merchandise, including their discount basement with sales year-round. Additional services include appraisals, purchases, consultations and assistance with general care of books and paper collectibles. Proprietor Marvin Post is a member of the International League of Antiquarian Booksellers (ILAB) and the Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of Canada (ABAC)!
Mandala Book Shop
Since 1973, Mandala Book Shop has existed as an island oasis in a fast-paced world. Specializing in tools for personal development and spiritual pursuits, they carry a wide-ranging selection of literature, music and meditation arts – with new jewelry, oracle cards, crystals and books arriving all the time.
As you explore these amazing book spots in London, Ontario, we’d love to see your literary adventures! Whether you’re snagging a rare find or simply soaking in the cozy bookstore vibes, don’t forget to tag @TourismLondon and use #ExploreLdnOnt in your posts. Happy reading and here’s to discovering your next great page-turner in the Forest City!
