Perfect for an autumn afternoon.
Montreal’s café-libraries embody the very essence of the Quebec metropolis: a harmonious fusion of culture, creativity and a taste for conviviality. Nestled in the heart of the city’s lively districts, these literary havens offer much more than just a cup of coffee or a shelf full of books. They are meeting places for intellectual exchange and discovery, where the scent of freshly-brewed coffee mingles with the pages turned with passion. In this article, we delve into the captivating world of Montreal’s café-libraries, exploring their history, their cultural and social role, and why they continue to attract so many literature- and caffeine-hungry visitors to this dynamic, cosmopolitan city.
1. Racines bookstore
This bookshop at Plaza Saint-Hubert offers a wide variety of books and showcases the work of racialized authors. Walk two blocks to the Café Pista a superb, uncluttered space in very Instagram pastel colors.
Where: 6524 Saint-Hubert Street, Montreal
When : Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m
To find out more about the bookshop, visit website.
2. Le Port de tête bookstore
Established in May 2007, this bookshop offers you a selection of new and used books in all genres. Find a small corner of the space to surround yourself with books while you make your choices! Go to at Kouing-Amann to sample one of their pastries, and sit back on the pedestrian street to watch people stroll by!
Where: 262 Avenue du Mont-Royal E, Montreal
When: daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., except Sundays
For a list of events and launches, visit website of the bookshop.
3. De Stiil Bookstore
This bookshop du Plateau offers a selection of books in English. Perfect for those who want to practice their English or simply read a book in Shakespeare’s language! Walk a few blocks to grab a coffee at the flamboyant Chez José or stick to a few felines at the café Chat l’Heureux with your new book. During the summer, you can also set up camp on the pedestrian street and enjoy this urban oasis.
Where: 351 Avenue Duluth E, Montréal
When: Tuesday and Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday and Monday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m
4. Librairie l’Échange
You’ve probably heard of this bookshop avenue Mont-Royal. In addition to used books, you’ll find second-hand vinyl records, DVDs and CDs, and original zines by local artists. Grab a coffee a few blocks away at the intimate Café Névé the best place to sit back and enjoy a tasty snack.
Where: 713 Avenue du Mont-Royal E, Montréal
Opening hours: daily from 11 am to 7 pm
5. Librairie Saint-Henri Books
In this bookshop in Saint-Henri of books of all kinds and in many languages! The establishment’s mission is to promote the voices of racialized, queer and aboriginal people. A trendy little place to spend an afternoon reading, you can also stop off at Campanelli for a coffee, or BarBara for an aperitif and a bite to eat on their superb terrace.
Where: 516 Rue Thérien, Montréal
When: daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m
6. Drawn & Quarterly
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Two delicious little boutiques that have been rooted in Mile End for over 30 years, Drawn & Quarterly offers titles in English and specializes in graphic novels. La petite D+Q is Montreal’s only independent children’s bookstore, and in the evenings it hosts literary launches and events of all kinds. Cross the street to the famous Dépanneur Café a local jewel.
Where: 211 and 176 Bernard Street West, Montreal
When : daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (La petite D+Q is closed on Mondays)