Save the date! On April 25, 2026, we observe Canadian Independent Bookstore Day (CIBD), the annual celebration that brings together readers, writers, illustrators, publishers, and industry supporters to champion indie bookstores across the country. By joining the celebration, you’re advocating for independent businesses, supporting a flourishing bookselling community, and investing directly in Canadian culture.
Independent booksellers and their staff are an integral part of Canada’s cultural fabric. They pour their passion, knowledge, and care into best-in-class customer service, nurturing readers’ curiosity and opening doors to worlds of discovery. Their work is vital to the local literary ecosystem, as they champion Canadian creators at all career stages and amplify diverse voices from across the country’s rich cultural landscape.
Indie bookstores are pillars of the communities in which they reside, actively shaping and being shaped by their neighbourhoods. They offer inclusive, welcoming spaces where people can connect over shared interests, meaningful conversations, and a love of books. Perhaps most importantly, indie bookstores provide a deeply personal experience. Their shelves are thoughtfully curated to reflect the bookseller’s ethos and the needs of their community. Their staff are knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely eager to help readers find the right book at the right moment. When you purchase a book from a local bookstore, you’re supporting a community hub that keeps stories, ideas, and culture flourishing close to home.
There are approximately 300 independent bookstores across Canada, and almost 100 in British Columbia, a third of which are on Vancouver Island alone. No matter where you are, you can find an independent bookstore near you and celebrate the day on the Indie Bookstores website. No matter their shape, size, or specialization, there’s bound to be an indie bookstore near you that will satisfy the need for a space to gather, discover stories, and participate in your community.
Whether you’re looking for something specific or just browsing the stacks, here are just a handful of indie bookstores in the Lower Mainland you can visit to support Indie Bookstore Day:
Nooroongji Books | 1666 Johnston St unit 6, Vancouver
Nestled in the Net Loft on Granville Island, Nooroongji Books is a multilingual curation bookstore specializing in language, philosophy, art, and home. Rather than having an international or translated authors section, Nooroongji puts culture and language at the forefront and focuses on unique selections rather than keeping track of bestseller lists. From rare titles, philosophy books, language workbooks children’s literature, magazines, cookbooks, art and architecture, illustrations, eclectic gifts, and more, Nooroongji is a launching pad for exploring the world and a great space to head into equipped with nothing but openness and whimsy.
CIBD events include a bookbinding live demonstration, book signing, used book sale, exclusive items and promos. Learn more here.
Upstart & Crow | 1387 Railspur Alley, Vancouver
Also on Granville Island, Upstart & Crow is a not-for-profit creative studio, literary incubator, and bookshop that champions writers, readers and stories. With a team including experienced writers, editors, journalists and literary publishers, Upstart & Crow develops original programs, supports artists, and revels in creative projects focused on Literature In Translation, Climate Solutions, Poetry, Civic Dialogue, Community & Skills Building, all with the aim of elevating the role of literature and storytelling. Events are a regular occurrence, from author talks, book launches, readings, book clubs, workshops, and more.
CIBD events include raffles, treats for first arrivals, and a hidden Libro.fm golden ticket for a year of free audiobooks. Learn more here.
Groove Cat Books and Records | 229 E Georgia St, Vancouver
Groove Cat is New Westminster’s premier bookshop and record store providing a cozy spot where the written word, music, conversation, and creativity all come together. Groove Cat gives a nod to the artistic, jazz-loving Beatnik era that inspired poets, musicians, and thinkers alike to gather, share ideas, and create. Here you can find a wide range of used books and records, regular events such as book clubs, book signings, challenges, and more, and perhaps the most indicative sign of a true community hub: their shop cat, Chester. Their eclectic and comfortable space is the kind of place that invites you to linger, whether you’re flipping through a stack of records, finding your next read, or striking up a conversation.
CIBD events include live music with The Cat Murphy Band, a 30% discount on all used books and records, and a free gift with purchase while supplies last. Learn more here.
Book Warehouse | 632 W Broadway and 4118 Main St, Vancouver
With two locations on Broadway and Main Street, Book Warehouse offers an experience of literary magnitude. From the moment you step inside, the care and attention of staff is immediately apparent, highlighted by thoughtfully curated staff recommendations that invite discovery. Beyond its shelves, Book Warehouse serves as a vibrant community hub, regularly hosting book launches, author talks and signings, book clubs, soirées, and other literary events that bring readers together.
CIBD events include raffles, bookstore bingo, a hidden Libro.fm golden ticket, a bookmark crafting corner, book trivia contest, scavenger hunts, challenges, and more, depending on the location near you. Learn more here.
Find an indie bookstore near you and join in on the festivities.
To give back, the Canadian Independent Booksellers Association organizes the yearly Contest for Book Lovers which encourages readers to buy books on Indie Bookstore Day in support and celebration of indies. Books must be purchased from a Canadian independent bookstore on Saturday, April 25, 2026 to be eligible.
