Nestled in the vibrant heart of the city, Flying Books in Downtown Toronto is more than just a bookstore—it’s a haven for book lovers, aspiring writers, and literary enthusiasts. With its carefully curated collection of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and graphic novels, Flying Books has earned its place among the best bookstores in Downtown Toronto. But this isn’t your average bookshop; it’s also a boutique publisher and a hub for nurturing emerging talent through its unique mentorship programs and engaging community events. Whether you’re searching for the latest indie gems, timeless classics, or want to dive into a workshop with acclaimed authors, Flying Books offers an experience that goes beyond shelves. If you’re on the hunt for Toronto’s best bookstores, this welcoming space is a must-visit destination that promises to inspire and delight.
Location and Accessibility
Flying Books in Downtown Toronto offers two convenient locations for book lovers to explore:
Address: 784 College Street, Toronto, ON M6G 1C6
Store Hours
- Monday, Tuesday, Friday: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Wednesday, Thursday: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Accessibility: The main retail space and bathroom on the main floor are accessible. However, the front door is not automatic and may require assistance from a bookseller for entry.
Address: 371 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 2A4
Store Hours
- Monday to Wednesday: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Accessibility: The retail space is fully accessible, but the bathroom is located on the lower level. The front door is not automatic and may require assistance.
Flying Books ensures that visitors to either location feel welcome and accommodated. Whether you’re visiting the College St. store or the Queen St. W. shop, the combination of accessibility and thoughtfully curated spaces makes it one of the best bookstores in Downtown Toronto.
History of Flying Books
Flying Books in Downtown Toronto was founded in 2015 by Martha Sharpe, a seasoned editor, publisher, and bookseller with decades of experience in the literary world. The idea for Flying Books began with a single shelf stocked with carefully chosen titles placed in a friend’s shop in downtown Toronto. From that modest start, it has grown into two thriving physical locations, making it one of the best bookstores in Downtown Toronto.
The name “Flying Books” was inspired by aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart and her fascination with the “marvel of invention.” Just as Earhart was captivated by the limitless possibilities of flight, Flying Books embodies the transformative power of reading—taking readers on journeys through imagination, discovery, and understanding.
With its unique blend of bookstore, publisher, and community hub, Flying Books has carved a niche as one of Toronto’s best bookstores, proving that even a small idea can grow into a meaningful space for book lovers.
Special Features and Services
Flying Books in Downtown Toronto goes beyond the traditional bookstore experience with a range of special features and services that make it a standout destination among the best bookstores in Downtown Toronto.
Events
Flying Books hosts regular events that bring the community together and celebrate the written word. These include:
- Book Launches: Featuring new titles such as The Riveter by Jack Wang and No Fault by Haley Mlotek.
- Author Socials: Intimate gatherings like the upcoming event with Sheila Heti, where readers can meet acclaimed authors.
- Writing Workshops: Interactive sessions like the Valentine’s Day romance writing workshop led by Leanne Toshiko Simpson.
These events provide readers and writers with opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate literature.
Gift Cards
Flying Books offers both physical and e-gift cards, perfect for book lovers:
- Physical Gift Cards: Available for pickup in-store or mailed for free to the recipient. Personalized notes can be added to the envelope.
- E-Gift Cards: Emailed directly to recipients and usable online or in-store.
- Gift cards can be redeemed easily in-store or online and never expire, making them an ideal gift option.
Audiobooks
Flying Books has partnered with Libro.fm to offer a robust audiobook service:
- Support Flying Books as your local bookstore when signing up for a Libro.fm membership.
- Use the code “CHOOSEINDIE” to receive a free audiobook.
- Explore curated audiobook recommendations by Gillian, featuring popular titles like Trust by Hernan Diaz and Run Towards the Danger by Sarah Polley.
With these special features and services, Flying Books continues to offer an enriching experience, solidifying its status as one of Toronto’s best bookstores.
Unique Offerings
Flying Books in Downtown Toronto stands out for its exceptional and diverse offerings, making it one of the best bookstores in Downtown Toronto. Here’s what makes Flying Books unique:
Curated Book Selection
Flying Books is known for its “choosily chosen” collection, featuring books across various genres, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, graphic novels, and children’s literature. The store places a special emphasis on titles from independent presses and diverse voices, ensuring a refreshing and unique selection that caters to all readers.
Publishing Program
Flying Books is not only a bookstore but also a publisher. Its publishing program began in 2019 and has already released three acclaimed titles:
- Happy Hour by Marlowe Granados
- Good Girl by Anna Fitzpatrick
- City in Flames by Tomas Hachard
These titles have received significant recognition for their engaging and innovative storytelling. Flying Books is also planning upcoming releases that continue to highlight strong, diverse voices in literature.
Mentorship Program
The Flying Books Mentorship Program is a key offering that supports aspiring writers. It provides one-on-one sessions with professional mentors specializing in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, grant writing, and more. These personalized sessions include practical advice, feedback on writing projects, and career guidance to help writers achieve their goals.
With these unique offerings, Flying Books has earned its reputation as one of Toronto’s best bookstores, providing a space where readers and writers alike can thrive.
Why Flying Books Stands Out
Flying Books in Downtown Toronto is not just another bookstore—it’s a dynamic space that seamlessly blends the roles of a bookstore, publishing house, and literary hub. This unique combination makes it one of the best bookstores in Downtown Toronto.
Unique Blend of Bookstore and Publishing House
Flying Books offers an exceptional mix of choosily curated books and original publications. Its dual role allows readers to discover a diverse range of titles while supporting the creation of new literary works.
Commitment to Nurturing Emerging Talent
The Flying Books Mentorship Program is a cornerstone of its mission. By offering one-on-one sessions with accomplished authors and industry professionals, the program provides writers with personalized guidance to elevate their craft and move closer to publication.
Strong Community Focus
Flying Books prioritizes building connections with its community and supporting local authors. Through book launches, author socials, and workshops, it creates a welcoming space for readers and writers to engage with literature and each other.
Reputation for Excellence
Flying Books has established itself as one of Toronto’s best bookstores by consistently delivering high-quality offerings, fostering literary talent, and maintaining a strong community presence.
This dedication to books, creativity, and community makes Flying Books a standout destination for anyone passionate about reading and storytelling.
Flying Books’ Vision and Values
Flying Books in Downtown Toronto operates with a clear vision and a set of values that reflect its dedication to literature and community. This strong foundation has earned its place among the best bookstores in Downtown Toronto.
Emphasis on Storytelling, Diversity, and Accessibility
Flying Books celebrates the power of storytelling, offering a curated selection that highlights diverse voices and perspectives. The bookstore is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible space where all readers can find stories that resonate with them.
Books as Tools for Imagination, Growth, and Connection
At Flying Books, the belief is that books have the unique ability to inspire imagination, foster personal growth, and build connections between people and ideas. This philosophy is reflected in every aspect of its offerings, from curated selections to its mentorship programs.
Resilience and Adaptability
During challenges like the pandemic, Flying Books demonstrated resilience by pivoting to online sales and home delivery, ensuring that readers could still access books for comfort, escape, and enlightenment. This adaptability has strengthened its bond with the community and reinforced its reputation as a reliable literary resource.
By staying true to these values, Flying Books continues to thrive as one of Toronto’s best bookstores, offering more than just books—it provides a space for creativity, growth, and connection.
Practical Information
Flying Books in Downtown Toronto makes it easy for book lovers to shop, attend events, and connect with their team. Here’s everything you need to know:
Online Shopping and Delivery Options
Online Store: Shop from Flying Books’ curated collection via their website.
Delivery Options
- Courier Service: Available for downtown Toronto orders within designated shipping zones.
- Canada Post: Shipping available nationwide for added convenience.
How to Attend or Book Events
Flying Books regularly hosts book launches, workshops, and author socials. Upcoming event details are available on their website or social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)
Event Bookings: Interested in holding an event at Flying Books? Fill out their event request form on their website, and the team will get back to you promptly.
Contact Information
- Email: For general inquiries, reach out at [email protected].
- Contact: Contact their College St. store at 416-532-8552.
- Website: Visit www.flyingbooks.ca for all information, updates, and online shopping.
Flying Books combines convenience with accessibility, ensuring a seamless experience for readers and event organizers alike, further cementing its reputation as one of the best bookstores in Downtown Toronto.
FAQs
- Does Flying Books offer online shopping?
Yes, you can shop online through their website and choose pickup, courier delivery in Toronto, or Canada Post shipping. - Is Flying Books accessible?
The main retail spaces at both locations are accessible, but the front doors are not automatic. Bathrooms are accessible at College St. but not at Queen St. W. - Does Flying Books sell gift cards?
Yes, they offer physical and e-gift cards that can be used in-store or online and never expire. - What events does Flying Books host?
Flying Books hosts book launches, writing workshops, and author socials. Event details are available on their website. - Can I book an event at Flying Books?
Yes, you can submit an event request form on their website, and their team will review it. - Can I attend writing workshops at Flying Books?
Yes, they regularly host writing workshops, including specialized sessions like romance novel writing and more.