The Comicshop in the early 1970s. Photo credit: thecomicshop.ca
Amazon may rule them all, but there’s nothing like actually seeing, feeling, and even smelling a book, new or used, in a real brick–and–mortar store. Lucky for us in Kitsilano, we have over 10 bookstores still standing. We selected 5 for you to consider.
5 Great Bookstores in Kitsilano
1. For Kids
Open since 1983, the award winning Kidsbooks has a welcoming atmosphere for parents and a wonderful range of books for kids, ranging from classic Dr. Seuss baby boardbooks to the latest Veronica Roth (of Divergent) young adult fiction series. Kidsbooks also regularly hosts authors, having most recently had the famous astronaut and author Chris Hadfield in store.
Kidsbooks, 3083 West Broadway, 604-738-5335, Kidsbooks.ca
2. For Hipsters
Cool new, used, and out-of-print books are the specialty of Pulpfiction Books. You won’t find any Danielle Steel novels here! Open since 2000, Pulpfiction Books has over 80,000 titles across their three local locations, all well organized, and they also buy and trade books. If they don’t have what you are looking for, they can happily order it for you at a discounted price.
Pulpfiction Books, 2754 W Broadway, 604-873-4311, Pulpfictionbooksvancouver.com
3. For Travelers
No trip planning is complete without having visited the Wanderlust travel bookstore. Since 1989, Wanderlust has helped inspire, navigate, and survive many of our travels, from epic tours to Antarctica to the Victoria Falls spectacle in Zimbabwe. Find plenty of maps and travel accessories here too.
Wanderlust, 1929 W 4th Ave, 604-739-2182, Wanderlustore.com
4. For Spiritual Souls
Not a whole lot has changed inside Banyen Books & Sound since opening in 1970. This “metaphysical bookstore, offering a broad spectrum of resources from humanity’s spiritual, healing, and earth wisdom traditions” also offers author readings, live music, storytelling, and workshops. CDs, DVDs, tarot cards, and various other spiritual accessories are available too.
Banyen Books & Sound, 3608 W 4th Ave., Banyen.com
5. For Super Heroes
Seriously collecting comics since 1974, The Comicshop has an incredible selection of comic books and graphic novels. They also offer subscription services so you’ll never miss an issue of your favourite Avengers or X-Men title. Appraisal services and consignment sales are available as well (bring them all those Archie Comics swimming in dust in your garage!).
The Comicshop, 3518 W 4th Ave, 604-738-8122, Thecomicshop.ca
Last modified: March 4, 2014
