SHELF LIFE BOOKS, CALGARY
Shelf Life Books, founded in 2010 by friends William Lawrence and JoAnn McCaig, fills a unique niche in downtown Calgary. Will, a history enthusiast and seasoned retailer, and JoAnn, a writer and former English professor, recognized the need for an independent bookstore in the area.
Located in the historic Fourth Street building, once home to the Parkside Continental gay bar and behind Evelyn Grant’s sculpture, Counting Crows, Shelf Life Books became a landmark. The building further gained attention in 2019 with a mural by Kat and Derek Simmers as part of Calgary’s BUMP Festival.
Celebrating its tenth anniversary in October 2020, Shelf Life Books has been embraced by Calgary’s literary community. The store has hosted notable authors such as Will Ferguson, Rudy Wiebe, and Vivek Shraya. It is known for its vibrant community events and regular visits from local writers.
OWL'S NEST BOOKS, CALGARY
Owl’s Nest Books, established in 1975 by Evelyn de Mille and James A. Highborough-Ross, has changed hands several times. Initially managed by James, Evelyn became the sole owner. After her retirement, Michael Hare and Brenda Mackie moved the store to Britannia Shopping Plaza in 1996. Susan Hare joined when Brenda retired, and Michael and Susan began transitioning to retirement while mentoring the new owner. The store expanded in 2002 but downsized in 2019 due to rising costs. The new owner, with a background in literature, took over in 2021, alongside Judith, a veteran bookstore manager. They continue to serve Calgary’s book lovers.
RAVEN'S END BOOKS, WINNIPEG
Owning a bookstore had always been a retirement dream for Chelsea McKee-Trenchard After a professional upheaval, she pursued this dream more seriously, seeking a role that aligned with her passion for books and community. Initially considering a librarian career, she faced frustration with unanswered applications.
A conversation with her sister-in-law inspired Chelsea to open a horror-themed bookstore. Realizing she didn’t need to wait for retirement, she decided to act immediately. Although her sister-in-law chose not to join the venture, she has been supportive throughout.
Chelsea’s lifelong love for horror, from Fear Street to R.L. Stine, motivated her to create a bookstore that offers a diverse and extensive horror selection, filling a niche she found lacking in mainstream stores.
ENCORE BOOKS & RECORDS, MONTREAL
IN THE BEGINNING, PETER LOVED READING AND WRITING BOOKS AND PLAYS AND SEAN LOVED PLAYING AND LISTENING TO MUSIC...
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They started searching for interesting books and records together, father and son, they enjoyed their findings and they enjoyed their time together. Eventually they accumulated a large number. It became apparent that they could not keep all of their treasures and started supplying retail book and record stores. Peter and Sean got to be very good at finding wonderful books and records. They dreamed of opening a store (so they didn't have to carry so many boxes!), but waited and learned the business for over 9 years.
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Finally they decided they were ready to open a store. After looking and looking and almost abandoning hope, Sean and Peter saw a little storefront not far from home. It wasn't perfect but it had everything they needed to open their first store. They rented it and with the help of Ryan (Peter's other son), they were able to get the store up and running by January 2004. The idea was to make the store open and inviting with a pleasant and friendly atmosphere. Comfy chairs, great music and well organized sections were a must.
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Over ten years later, Encore has several talented and creative employees and is a staple of the NDG community.
PHOENIX BOOKS, MONTREAL
Phoenix Books, located at 5928 Sherbrooke Street West in Montreal’s NDG neighborhood, is a cozy haven for book lovers. Specializing in used books, the store also offers a curated selection of new and local literature, along with art from the community.
Owned by Melanie, Phoenix Books goes beyond a typical bookstore by hosting artisan pop-ups, poetry readings, and other creative events. Melanie’s goal is to provide a calm, welcoming space where people can slow down and connect, whether browsing the shelves or attending a local poetry open mic. Phoenix Books has quickly become a beloved hub for creativity and community.