If you’re looking to buy a book to read, or as a gift for someone, nothing beats the experience of browsing through a real bookshop. Below we’ve featured 8 of the best bookstores in Saskatchewan.
1. Turning the Tide
When Peter Garden opened Turning the Tide in 2003, he envisioned a place for Saskatoon readers to explore books aimed at changing the world. This is why they carry a large selection of both new and used fiction and nonfiction books related to social justice issues, local and global politics, the environment, sustainable and healthy living, and local interest. They also carry textbooks for local university students and books written for children and young adults.
They sell more than just books: they also sell gifts, such as puzzles and games, and organic, fair-trade soaps, coffees and teas. Turning the Tide hosts a variety of events in their place on Main Street, including workshops, book launches, and seminars. To find out more about this eclectic, independent bookstore, contact them Monday through Saturday.
2. Post Horizon Booksellers
Located in Moose Jaw, Post Horizon Booksellers has available over 23,000 new and used books on a range of topics, such as: biography, Canadian interest and authors, mythology and legends, self-improvement, military, religion, and natural history. You can visit them in store or online, where they provide delivery all over the world.
If you have books you’d like to sell or exchange, Post Horizon Booksellers can do that, too; just follow their guidance online. To find out more about what they have to offer or selling books to them, contact them using their online form.
3. Spafford Books
Since 1970, Spafford Books in Regina has been the premier spot for old, rare, and second-hand books. They carry a range of popular literature, art history, and science books but specialize in books related to the Indigenous populations of Canada, books related to the Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan areas and interests, and exploration.
You can shop online or contact them to set up an appointment at the brick-and-mortar store in Regina. You can even bring your own rare and antiquarian books to get appraised, if you have any.
4. The Penny University
Also in Regina, the Penny University opened in 2020 as a place for book-lovers to grab a coffee, meet other like-minded booklovers, or just find a book to sit back and enjoy. Boasting over 2,000 books in shop, the Penny University stocks popular and contemporary fiction and nonfiction titles, including books on social sciences, poetry, history, and self-improvement.
As a self-proclaimed hub of literary events, the Penny University hosts authors in conversation, book launches, and book-related workshops. To find out more about their café and what they have in stock, contact them using their online message form or by phone.
5. Aware House Books
Since the 1970s, Aware House Books in Regina has been offering books and gifts on all things metaphysical, spiritual, and occult. While they carry over 3,000 titles ranging from popular fiction to young adult nonfiction, they specialise in nonfiction titles related to wellness, spirituality, interconnectedness of the body and spirit, and indigenous studies and religions.
They also sell Tarot cards, crystals, essential oils, candles, incense, and other spiritual items. They even sell gift items and journals. Contact them to find out what other special items or books they have in stock.
6. Pass the Word
If you’re looking for a Christian bookstore in Regina, look no further than Pass the Word, a completely not-for-profit bookshop specialising in Christian-themed items. They carry a range of Bibles, including large print, hardcover, and specialized translations. They have over 2,000 fiction and nonfiction books covering a variety of topics, including self-improvement guides, daily devotionals, children’s books, and theological reference texts.
For those looking for Christian-themed gifts, Pass the Word carries holiday cards, stationery, jewelry, toys, games, calendars, and home décor. To find out more about, contact Pass the Word by phone or email.
7. Quill and Ink Bookstore
Since 2020, Quill and Ink Bookstore in Qu’Appelle sells a carefully curated selection of second-hand and new contemporary fiction in genres such as romance and history. They also offer nonfiction texts and some children’s books.
Quill and Ink also hosts a range of events such book fairs, book clubs, author readings and book signings. For those unable to visit the brick-and-mortar shop, Quill and Ink delivers to those living in Emerald City, Pilot Butte, and Balgonie. To find out how to order for delivery, or for any other information, contact them using their online message form or via their social media.
8. Hana Books
Hana Books is a bookstore in Warman with a small coffee shop. They stock fiction and children’s books on a range of topics and genres. Their nonfiction section consists mostly of business and economics books.
Their small café serves espresso, specialty coffees, and Vietnamese style coffees. While they don’t host any events in-house, they do support local events and offer sales to celebrate both Canadian and Vietnamese holidays and festivals. Contact them to find out more about this great little shop tucked away in Warman.