I have been shopping at ABC books for years after the unfortunate shutdown of the World's Biggest Bookstore, and Eliot's Bookstore. ABC has a vast collection, much like Eliot's did, of genres. BMV is also a good option, but lack in stock niche interest literature and out-of-date releases (although they do carry them, just in a smaller quantity) and many titles tend to favor to a younger crowd. I know I can often rely on ABC for those rare to find art books, historical and classical music literature and reference books. I am often told of other buy-ins that have not yet been processed that might suit my taste. The staff who work there really know their stuff, and have a broad band of knowledge, which makes for great conversation and a feeling that I will truly enjoy my purchase. All of the stores previously mentioned had these fantastic qualities as well. It's so refreshing to chat with like-minded people who are passionate about their craft and are not just employees but true bibliophiles. ABC also buys and sells vinyl, and CD's.

Stunningly bad customer service. On Friday I bought books there, the lady in the store offered me (without me suggesting it), a $1 discount, and charged no tax. Monday I went back and asked for a $1 discount (thinking that it's what they do to stay competitive in this tough economy. The guy at the counter refused with a loud "No!," and said that he already knocked off the tax and that was enough. He seemed so bizarrely angry that I said, to calm things, okay, you did, anyway I'm happy to support your store. He said, no you're not, you're trying to rip me off. I informed him politely that he wouldn't be seeing me. Pathetic service and too bad for the store too because there's several shelves of French books in there, which as a rule are hard to sell in Toronto (and many of them have obviously been sitting there years, if not decades) and I was actually buying a bunch of them up!

Located just south of Bloor on the west side of the street, ABC is not a huge vintage book store but certainly has a very nice collection of books in all categories, including DVDs and even some anime. Compared to many other vintage book stores visited this one was well organized, clean and orderly (you don't see towers of books stacked one atop the other from floor to ceiling). While not looking for anything specific we ended finding a few books that we felt added to our existing collection (so that was a bonus). And, considering the location, the prices are very affordable and reasonable. The staff we interacted with were both knowledgeable and friendly. If you are looking for a used book in Toronto then ABC is definitely worth a visit.

Make sure you read every sign posted, or you may accidentally / or willingly wonder into an area where no bags are allowed, while carrying your bag. When that happens, you will be barked at, while the regular who is a part of the furniture chatting with staff at the counter, along with other people stair over at you. There used to be the gentleman with silver hair, and a more full beard who I liked, for his frankness, but the other is rude. Clearly there has been an impact upon me, I have not yet mentioned the outstanding selection and quality of their wares. Even the categorization and classification is amazing.

This is one of those gem stores that are still part of downtown Toronto that have stood the test of time. There's a wide variety of fiction and nonfiction books I really good prices and they have a vast selection of various topics. Their prices are usually better than you would find elsewhere and they have a huge selection of comic books as well but decent size collection of Blu-ray movies at good prices. If you're looking for something rare or obscure chances are this place probably has it it's worth a stop in to browse and see what they have.

The photo is of me the reviewer. I had an upsetting experience at this book store. The man who works there was making me nervous stareing at me, when I found a book I was thinking of purchasing he came over, invaded my personal space, snatched the book from my hands and said "okay, i think we have had enough of this." It was about 3:30pm and Ive purchased over $1000 of books from him in the past. The store owner made me feel as if my safty was at risk and Im werry as to if I should return in the future.

A fun little place where I’ve found lots of quirky stuff. Expect to pay around $7 for a typical used book. They have several well-stocked shelves of foreign-language books, which irritatingly are arranged face-up so that the titles are upside-down. A depressing percentage of their clientele seems to be creepy boomers visiting their smut aisle, so the staff always seems happy for you when you find a genuinely nice book. They also have some rare books behind the counter that they’ll show you if you ask.

"The Hub of bigots and racists" is what this library should actually be called. Shameless and Racist staff were openly having a super racist conversation loudly in the middle of the store in spite of numerous clients being present there ! They were litteratly vomiting hateful comments like : Nigeria and Saudi Arabia are the worst countries on earth and called them sh*tholes !!! This is truly disgusting. Do not step foot in place that openly promotes hatred. Go educate yourselves losers !

I have been in love with this place since back in the days of going to undergrad at U of T. It’s well organized, the selection is incredible, and they have a great mix of new and old! The owner is knowledgeable, helpful, and very friendly! The discount book boxes outside always have random hidden gems if you take the time to look! On my last visit I picked up a bunch of Agatha Christie books that were gorgeous and in wonderful condition. I highly recommend this shop for any book lover!

Fantastic collection of books - some of them rare. Books are all kinds of different prices depending on what condition and rarity it is. Some very unique finds are possible and you may not have to pay a pretty penny to buy them. It's mostly a book place, but there are a few more collected works of comic books along with a rarity or two. Well worth visiting, but the stretch of Yonge St. isn't what it used to be with the bookstores. Visit this one before it too becomes Condo-fied.

I love this place! My commute is about 2 hours daily, and I found that I have been reading through my books quite quickly. I have been getting my books from Indigo, however it gets pricey when you get a new book every week. This book had most of the books on my to read list (including some Heather Picks). The books are 50% or more off the price you would pay online at Indigo and are all in decent/good shape. Most of the books I have gotten have ranged between $4.99 to $6.99

Excellent selection of used books, comics, graphic novels and DVDs. Great bargains, it is almost impossible that you will end up empty handed. They also have some vintage paperbacks and original pulp-fictions magazines for sale. The bookstore clerk is one of those kind of bibliophiles that you don’t usually find anymore at the counter of a bookshop; a man who knows about books and loves them and will give you a good chat when you are paying for the goodies.

I honestly love this book store! It always has a good selection and you can find some recent best sellers there for a decent price. I now live in Ottawa, and I wish we had as good secondhand bookstore as this one (trust me, I've looked and looked). The place is very neatly organized, has lots of DVDs and comics (something you dont find in every book store), and overall just a pleasure to search through. I dont think I've ever walked out empty-handed.

couldn't count how many times I've stopped in my tracks to check out the titles in the book troughs set up in front. inside is tight but neatly organized given the variety of books and space to display them. happy to find a bunch of titles i was looking for in New age / Eastern philosophy. I'll be coming here, along with Seekers, as long as they're open and I'm in the city... really great shops for harder to find titles and authors

This institution on Yonge Street has lasted for decades, outlasting its rivals, and it will hopefully last for longer. An unprepossessing storefront, this place has an excellent selections of books old and new, available at great prices. The bins of books just outside the windows are a favourite place for me to quickly browse while passing. ABC Books is strongly recommended by me for any bibliophile visiting downtown Toronto.

One of the men who work here was incredibly rude and condescending to me twice. Told me (without looking at my books even though he knew it was an inconvenient stop) that my best bet would be to donate them all to Goodwill. Joke's on him 'cause I made more than $60 selling to other booksellers the very same day. It literally would have taken him a couple minutes to look at the box I had already brought in, but didn't bother.

Rude staff. My brother was in the store looking for comic books for me, we were communicating through video chat and the staff forbid him to use his cell phone. When asked why not, he responded "because I said so" and told him to leave the store. I was willing to purchase many books but because of the rude customer service, I will never go back or recommend to any friends and family to go there. Worst customer service ever.

I think, the manager today needs a hearing test. I asked him, when is the best time to call back to the store to know whether the books is in store or not, since he said, the books I mentioned frequently in store, but now sold out. So, I know, when to come to the bookstore to get the books. I did not ask him to call me back to let me know the books I am looking are in store. He said, call Indigo for that. How rude are you?

Was in here yesterday and listened to the owner and a customer have a very loud, “funny” conversation about how supposedly cheap and rude Asian business owners are — yup, complete with the customer doing a racist accent multiple times and the owner laughing along. Real classy guys. Update: Read older reviews and it seems that unashamed, extremely racist conversations are a regular part of the ABC Book experience.

The owner/manager was very rude. While I didn't directly experience his horrible attitude, there was another client (a mom) asking him for book recommendations for her daughter and he was super rude to her. Completely shot her down and was visibly disrespectful, borderline hostile. He made her feel stupid and small for even asking for recommendations. Disgusting attitude and would give 0 stars if I could

The staff on the phone (according to other reviews I suppose it could be the owner) was extremely rude. I'm puzzled as to where he got the idea that I'd like to "get rich" with the book collection I have; I simply called in advance to avoid the scenario of carrying a bunch of heavy books all the way back home again. Certainly will not be purchasing or selling any books at this place.

A charming and well-stocked store! They had a copy of The Picture of Dorian Gray with the blond-haired rug-over-frame cover from Mary Evans Picture Library, which is truly rare to find for a Dorian Gray book (since they always have him with dark hair and it bugs me!) To my pleasant surprise, it was only $5. There are so many unique editions of books available, I must come back soon!

Mmm breathe in some real books! Everything you'd want from a used bookshop including the wonderful aroma of time worn pages. You could spend hours here browsing through a vast collection of books, vintage magazines and movies. Independently owned. Very knowledgeable and helpful owners - like walking encyclopedias so if you have a question, they will likely have the answer.

The young lady that was working the evening I dropped in was very helpful and polite , I purchased 3 leather-bound books from the 1800's and early 1900's , as well as a couple James Patterson softcovers the prices were more than fair and the selection of Movies , Books and Magazines is extensive and well organized . Very impressed I will definitely be back .

Amazing prices, but while the books are organized by genre, the organization itself is horrible. Sometimes series are together, and other times, each book is shelves apart or you can never find the first book of any series. Still a solid 4 stars because of the extensive selection and amazing prices—you just have to dedicate an hour or two to find a series.

Generally a pretty good used book store. Open late which nice, in a central location and they have a large collection of sci-fi books which I like. I go at least once a week! Some of the customers that come in are a little less than savoury and that just makes me feel uncomfortable sometimes. Besides that, it’s a fine store

A great small post in the heart of downtown Toronto for cheap books, DVDs, CDs and much more been in business for 50 years. The owner is very nice as well, the shop is like a journey into the beautiful past. Hope these businesses survive the digital age coz it's our connection to the true history and identify of this city.

This is one of the ever shrinking independent book stores in Toronto. It has a very nice selection in a wide variety of genres. There is ever a little porn section in the back corner of the shop if your into that. The owner is very knowledgeable and friendly. Always a stop for me when I am downtown.

I’ve been here many times, not only do they have almost everything youre looking for at fair prices, also a variety of books and such youve never seen before- the staff is really helpful when it comes to all things music, film, literature! They know their stuff! Highly recommend!!! Support local

Interesting little book shop that you wouldn't expect to find on busy Yonge Street in the area of the city that it's located in. Fairly good selection, although not exceptional by any metric; I was able to secure a hardcover Hemingway for a good price. Overall 8/10 would conditionally recommend

Nice place to browse. I picked up a few good books from here including one from their $1-$2.99 bin outside. I feel like the books could be organized a bit better. Gave it only 4 stars because some of the used books I bought here was more expensive than a newer copy at the nearby BMV.

Not the most clean place, but the staff are cordial and will throw banter at customers as an ice breaker. They also know all the books they have and their prices are really good. Decent to explore especially if you want older books or are in the mood to browse and find hidden gems.

Popped in on a whim yesterday, my son found something he was interested in. The very friendly guy behind the counter happily put it aside for us for a few hours. Had a nice chat with him once we came back for it. They seem to have a little bit of everything, with great prices.

This book store has a nice environment and has plenty of options. Its bigger on the inside than it looks. There should be something here for everyone. The prices are great and the person who works there was very friendly. If I am in the area, I will gladly visit again!

Great selections of various publications...however, one gent on staff is quite obnoxious and a bit rude on the various times I have stopped by. That being said, it wont hinder my patronage, but when working with the public, he needs to be a little nicer.

Highly recommend checking out this place, a great book genre selection, reasonable prices for used books and a specific reduced section. I think buying from this store would make for pleasant gifts that suit people's interests and help the environment.

They have actual modern-ish fictions here instead of some boring 19th Century realist “classics” or best-sellers. Got a super comprehensive collection of Borges stories here for $13. They often have a bunch of Calvino books too. Amazing place.

This place has that old bookstore vibe. Really loved it. If you're a book lover and like surfing through books to find the one to read old school style, you will love this store. Prices are really cheap as compared to other high end stores.

Found a good book but no thanks to the rude staff. When asking about feminist literature, he was dismissism and later implied that women didn't read before the pandemic. Gross. Evidently this shop caters to men and others are not welcome.

I'm giving this rating because of a really specific and upsetting moment the other day, when I brought an scholarly journal into the shop - I used the word 'academic' in-context, and had the store owner outright imply I didn't understand

Best used book store in the city. I found amazing bargains on some real solid comics and even managed to find a signed copy of a John Green book I love. Great place and very friendly staff, definitely worth a look around everytime.

Just a typical used bookstore. I went in looking for particular books but they didn't have them but on the way out I found an entire set of Zelda manga that I've been wanting for years! And only for $4 a book. Love this place now!

Great store. I have visited it a few times and each time I go home with some great finds. My choice of books tends to be non-fiction and history. Bring cash to pay for your purchases, definitely more appreciated. Worth a visit.

Some books are a little expensive considering their old and worn out conditions. The lady at the counter was racist. Though have a old school vibe at the store. I recomment paying a visit. Good luck with the lady.

This is my go to used book store. Helpful and friendly staff encounters have been my personal experience so far. Great prices and organized well enough that staff can pull a book I'm looking for within minutes

Great bookstore with a lot of different books every time I show up. The selection is amazing and the prices are really reasonable. It's a good idea to visit every few weeks to see what they have available.

The guy that works here (not the owner) is so rude and condescending, it just sours you from ever wanting to stop by. There are so many other used bookstores in Toronto with equal if not better prices.

Good place to find rarer titles, especially literature. There's a decent history, architecture, and music section as well. Some rare and old magazines are actually in the adult section, but not adult.

Rude and passive-aggressive salesperson behind the counter. I’ve been to this place a lot, bought plenty of books from them, which I regret in retrospect now. They ruined it for me. Never going back.

i loved passing by ! absolutely great prices and the staff are so nice !! the book selection is incredible and its a cute little quaint shop perfect for anyone looking for a used book store :)

Great selection and you are buying pre-used books so it is a fraction of the price of a new book and it is not a chain store, which is also a plus for me. Plus, staff is friendly & efficient.

Some gems await those willing to hunt. I found every book and the rare comic on my list during my visit. Helpful staff, decent pricing and good quality books. Was worth the visit for me.

Perfect little book store. The staff is very helpful if you need help finding a specific book. I usually leave the store with a lot more than I originally intended on buying.

I love this bookstore. You will find something everytime you come here and the prices are reasonable. My 7 year old daughter gets her Archie comics here and she loves it!

Love this staple of Yonge Street. I visit every single time I am on Yonge. I never leave disappointed because they usually have the out of print books I am looking for.

Stopped by on Thanksgiving Monday, and I must say it’s an amazing bookstore. There were a lot of good finds for great prices! Zero complaints, highly recommend.

Walked in to sell a few books, the staff seem to take great pride in being snide or cocky for absolutely no reason. Sure to make you regret dropping by.

Rude staff! I had an unwelcoming first experience walking in the door. I had to turn myself right around, and out that store door. …

Insane second hand bookstore, probably one of my favourites. Always have interesting items with prices you cannot beat anywhere dowtown!

Tight space with great books and DVD's. The owner is exceptionally knowledgeable....he's like an encyclopedia on Authors and publishers.

This place was my goto for books during uni, their prices are great and I always find gems here. If you ever pass by, go for a browse!

The owner is very knowledgable in every possible genre. Even though they're second hand, the books are in very good quality

Great find at this store. Always a pleasure going to ABC. Very knowledgeable staff/owners and incredibly well organized.

Amazing store that I happened to pass by ending up buying two books. So reasonably priced and super helpful staff too!

Great place to find hidden treasures. Huge comic and graphic novel selection. Something for everyone. Friendly staff.

Bringing in books that you want to sell: I wanted to sell some hard-cover art/photography books, among others. The

Great place. Found some of my fav books at very affordable prices. Definitely will go over there every time i can.

Love this store!! Always find great titles, sometimes hard to find or out of print!. Staff are amazing too!!

Diversity of used books for reasonable and affordable prices. Most of the books are good condition look.

Huge selection with lots of hidden gems. Good prices and good conditions of the books. Friendly staff

very good prices, even has discounted bin at front with some interesting books. vibe is very chill

Very cool place for second hand books. The selection is very good and the prices are excellent.

Great selection of books. Easy access from the village. I check it out all the time

The guy that works there was very rude and kept making condescending remarks.

Fantastic book shop. Need to get a gift for someone? Come here. Great spot.

they have books floor to ceiling, bargain books outside for a toonie or so8

Very nice and organized! Larger than I expected. Good prices.

Quaint, well stocked bookstore. Great service and prices.

Great prices and selection of used dvd's and blu rays.

Rude service when trying to sell vintage books.