Seekers Books

460 reviews

509 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1Y2, Canada

+14169251982

About

Seekers Books is a Book store located at 509 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1Y2, Canada. It has received 460 reviews with an average rating of 4.7 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday12-9PM
Tuesday12-9PM
Wednesday12-9PM
Thursday12-9PM
Friday12-9PM
Saturday12-9PM
Sunday12-9PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of Seekers Books: 509 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1Y2, Canada

  • Seekers Books has 4.7 stars from 460 reviews

  • Book store

  • "As rare book collectors (and we collect books as souvenirs in each city we visit internationally), we found the service here abysmal"

    "This was the worst book shopping experience I ever had"

    "The bookstore itself is wonderful and it's a great place to find some very rare books, but I felt scammed by them"

    "GREAT BOOKSTORE!!!! Came here with a friend during a Bloor expedition to look for "The 48 Laws of Power" by Robert Greene"

    "My favourite bookstore in the city! A hidden gem in the Annex - you might miss it, as the entrance is beneath a staircase"

Reviews

  • Effie S

As rare book collectors (and we collect books as souvenirs in each city we visit internationally), we found the service here abysmal. We found very little of interest along the general shelves (except for a few books that turned out to be in what the proprietor described as the "staff area" though nothing indicated this, as books on shelves continued into the area, were apparently not for sale and instead in the private collection of the proprietor). We found the rare books section behind the front counter (a common spot for more valuable books). The proprietor informed us that if we saw something we wanted to look at he could pull it out, but the books were so far back that we could not read the titles on the spines. The area was filled with boxes of books and could not even be easily accessed by the proprietor and completely off limits to us. We did see one book that was of interest, and when we pointed it out the proprietor informed us that "this book is worth $350, and it’s very hard to reach, so unless you’re definitely going to buy it, I’m not going to get it down for you”. Though this book was of interest to us, as many others may have been, it makes no sense as a collector to agree to a purchase without examining it first. We were happy to wait if it would take awhile, and we wanted to see most of the books to make our selection. We were prepared to make a purchase not just to look. We commented that if the proprietor was inconvenienced by our request then we would leave, and thus we did so. There are many other stores in Toronto that actually take an interest in selling books to you. This one isn't it.

  • dee bee

This was the worst book shopping experience I ever had. I was accosted from the emotionally unstable woman running the place. I have a disability that doesn’t allow me to easily access books close to the floor. I picked about 10 books to look at for when I could stand up comfortably. When I attempted to put the 5 I didnt want back into the shelf The woman ran up to me screaming to not put them back because they are in alphabetical order. I apologized saying I didn’t realize that. I left 5-6 books one row up from where I got them and took to the rest to the counter. She immediately ignored me to go back to put the 5 books away while I stood at the till waiting for her. She came back and basically threw the books at me after I paid. After I exited the store I heard her call me a Karen. I went back in and told her she needed to learn a thing or two about customer service and that you don’t make someone wait while you put books away. She started verbally assaulting me calling me an entitled c@nt and that I was banned from the store. I told her to wait for my Google review and left while she chased me out swearing and screeching at me the I don’t deserve to be allowed in a book store. All of this because I left 5 books out that I tried to put them back??? She was so unhinged and mad she was shaking. Beware this woman shouldn’t be allowed to interact with the public. If you misplace a book all hell will break loose.

  • Danielle Russell

The bookstore itself is wonderful and it's a great place to find some very rare books, but I felt scammed by them. When I bought my books, the cashier (a lady) explicitly said that Seekers would purchase the used books from me for 1/3 of the price I paid, when I was done reading them. A few months later, I went back and took my receipt. This new cashier (a man) didn't even look at the receipt (which I found strange), then he glanced at 2 of the books and just said he's not taking them because he had too many of those in the store. After that, he flipped through the remaining two and after "serious consideration",  offered me $1 for each (that was definitely not 1/3 of the original price!). I left with my books that day as I'd rather donate it to free library. If I hadn't been told that the books would be repurchased, I probably wouldn't have bought them. Their sales model feels like a scam and I definitely will not return to this store. Don't make promises you can't keep!

  • The Reviewist

GREAT BOOKSTORE!!!! Came here with a friend during a Bloor expedition to look for "The 48 Laws of Power" by Robert Greene. Unfortunately didn't find it because everyone and their mother is looking for it right now -insert depressed emoji- But I am so glad that I stumbled upon this gem of a bookstore! Hot tip: this store is located 6 feet under so look out for it or you might miss it! I had sadly gone into the The Big Short level debt on my way here, so didn't get anything! The prices were eye-watering good and there was a great mix of old and new. Books like "21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act" or "American Dirt" were selling for about 10 bucks in mint condition. The owner was also super kind and helpful. He remembered his stock better than I remember any French from Duolingo. The only thing you will seek at seekers is good prices and good vibes! Ciao Bella!

  • Nikoleta Curcin

My favourite bookstore in the city! A hidden gem in the Annex - you might miss it, as the entrance is beneath a staircase. The store is charmingly cluttered with tall shelves that are packed to the brim with all sorts of popular and obscure finds (I’ve made numerous delightful discoveries)! Aside from the awesome vibe and the vast offerings on display, the owners make the shop what it is; they’re friendly, intelligent, well-read, and seemingly always engaged in fascinating conversations with the regulars. To top it all off, there’s a kitty who plays host! If you miss the warm welcome of intellectual banter and the search for a long-desired volume, this is the spot to indulge your nostalgia while also thanking the literary gods that places like this still exist!

  • Paul Kennedy

EVERY trip to this downstairs, second-hand and remaindered BOOKSTORE is worth many times more than the price of whatever books you end up buying -- and I confess that I find it impossible to leave without at least two or three great reads in my bag! The owner/buyer/shelver/cashier displays impeccable taste, and consummate presentation! If you're specifically looking for only one particular book, you won't have any problem finding it... Or if you're just browsing, no fewer than two or three unanticipated titles will find their way home with you.... and inevitably bring you back for MORE.... Bookstores have been dying like wild fires, recently. Let's keep this one OPEN FOREVER!

  • Moira S

This bookstore is literally a hidden gem. I accidentally found this place when I dropped something and saw the store when I crouched down to pick it up. From outside it looked like a shady underground basement bookstore. But once you walk in, you’re instantly hit with the scent of books and cedar. The store has a warm welcoming vibe, not to mention, an amazing selection of books. BUT MY FAVOURITE PART ABOUT THIS BOOKSTORE IS THE CAT. I was pleasantly surprised to see that there was a cat just chilling there and living out its best life surrounded by books.

  • Yasmin Moghadamnia

What a great experience! I live in the U.S. and even though there are wonderful used bookstores in say, NYC, I don't have much access to them living in a small town in Delaware, so I was pretty excited about Toronto bookstores. A second reason was the fact that a bunch of my favorite books with British covers exist in Canda :) We loved this place. Not a huge fiction selection but enough, and I had a ton of fun finding gems. The owner was also really nice and knowledgeable.

  • Lisa O

One of the best book stores in the city, for sure. They have unmatched prices for books in great condition, the owner is always really friendly and funny, and huge book selection! We always find something to buy. It really brightens my day to see Churchill the orange cat working hard to keep the store in check. ♡ There's a really warm atmosphere here, and the owner is always having interesting conversations with customers. Hope this place stays forever.

  • Supreme Tastebuds

super cute bookstore with lots of good finds. make sure you give yourself plenty of time so you can look through everything. the staff are super helpful and know where everything is so don't be afraid to ask if you're looking for something specific. all the books were reasonably priced and in good quality. the buying hours are different from the open hours, so if you're looking to sell some books make sure you come before 6.

  • G J

A fun place even if you’re not into New Age and occult stuff. The owner is very articulate, and will suggest other bookstores if you can’t find what you’re looking for. Foreign-language books are mixed in with other books of the same theme, which from my point of view is unfortunate. In certain genres it doesn’t get new books very often, so I’ve left the shop empty-handed a bunch of times.

  • Veronica R

I make it a habit to come here at least once a month. Prices are great. Environment is great. The guy that’s always there is a great person. He is very friendly and has a conversation with nearly everyone that comes in. Everything about this place is great! I always suggest this place to my friends or I bring a friend to my monthly visit. If you like cats, there’s usually a cat there

  • Jose Benaza

Entering the bookstore by chance being caught by the rain was a blessing in disguise. The beautiful arrangements and the treasure trove of many genres of books is breathtaking. They hold a your classics and new books that release when they do. I would definitly consider you come here when you look for something new to read. (Also caught this cutie taking a nap)

  • Marina Popovic

One of my fave bookstores in Toronto. I can always count on finding an awesome new read and a great deal here! It’s surprisingly well organized with an updated selection every time I come in. The owner is super friendly and I always feel so welcome (plus he has the cutest cat). Highly recommend for Toronto book friends!

  • Mohammed Syed

Fantastic second-hand book store! Lots of choices available with a no muss, no fuss styled vibe. Very helpful gentleman running the store who was also very informative. Lastly, the books were in great condition and even better pricing, I’d definitely visit here to buy my future book purchases. Thanks!

  • Samantha deManbey

A cozy and welcoming small bookstore with a wide collection of used books, cards, and stickers. The owner was super friendly and helpful. There is also a very sweet and cool cat there named Churchill. Prices are reasonable and there is a good size collection of philosophy books.

  • IG reikihermitmoon

This place is awesome the owner Patrick is really cool and fun to talk to. They always have a wide selection of super rare super unique books. So if you ever in the annex I'm looking for a new book to read is walk down into the basement and find your way into Seekers books.

  • Marrow

In a time where the small business is fading away, let alone the small business bookstore, this spot is an Annex gem. On top of this, it's owned by two great people, who pride themselves on operating a friendly, welcoming bookstore. Definitely worth checking out.

  • Karin Porter

Lovely pokeabout second-hand bookseller. They have a nice selection of literature, SF,? comic books, some textbooks, occult, etc etc. Churchill the cat is a fixture, but he's not always amenable to pats. He'll let you know when he's grumpy.

  • Elliot Harris

An absolute Toronto treasure, and I’ve been coming here for like 15 years! PROS: -Amazing selection of books -Cozy shop -Kind and knowledgeable staff -Fair buying prices -Convenient location -Has an orange cat who’s wonderful CONS: ‍♂️

  • Mariam Khan

Love this place and the peeps! In addition to scoring a first edition copy of The Talisman (yay), I had the pleasure of making the acquaintance of the enchanting Mr. Churchill, himself! My dumpling pug was also appreciated! …

  • Rebecca Koole

Absolutely love this bookstore! There's even a cat that roams about the shelves. It's everything you could want in a little bookstore. Great selection with lots of classics, new releases and beautiful old books too.

  • Andrew Tan

I was visiting from out of town and stumbled upon Seekers. This is a great bookstore! The place has tons of book variety and the prices are fantastic. The owner is super friendly ! I would def recommend a visit!

  • Hassan Noorani

I found the perfect spot: Seekers Books. Its affordable prices and extensive collection of literature make it a must-visit for me every week. The intoxicating scent of old books only adds to the charm.

  • Di M

Accidentally stumbled upon this store. Owner is nice and approachable. Found some really good fiction and non fiction books. One of my fav places to visit any time I'm in Toronto!

  • John Elias

Great used bookstore. The selection of philosophy, history and literature books is especially good. Patrick, the owner, is knowledgeable, funny and welcoming. Highly recommended.

  • Masa K

I loveeeeee this place! Owners are amazing and super nice. They give you great recommendations and you can find great books for 1/3 of the price! Highly recommend to book lovers.

  • David S.

Was able to almost finish a run of a fantasy series with two visits. Owner is super friendly and funny. Bookstore cat named Churchill is, of course, adorable. Will return soon.

  • Meg M

A really neat spot! I went in to see Churchill the cat and picked up some interesting books. The owner was also so knowledgeable and had great conversations with customers.

  • Piers Eaton

Very good bookstore. Patrick at the front desk is really helpful, seems to know almost every book they have. Good prices, good selection with new books coming in regularly.

  • Johnny Bee

THE BEST BOOK STORE IN THE CITY. Best selection of books for my taste (eastern religion) and the owner is awesome. Hilarious and helpful. Will definitely be back.

  • Abby Gibson

This store was definitely one of the highlights of my trip to Toronto. I found a few books that I needed and had been looking for. The owner and cat were lovely.

  • galaxypeaches

Fun place! Found a great gift at a greater price for my partner. Owner is lovely (and I spotted a lovely cat too..!). I'll definitely be coming back!

  • Eitan Straisfeld

This book store has been around for at least 35 years. It'sone of the last hole in the wall bookstores in Toronto and I hope it never goes away.

  • Vivian Zhi

5 stars for the fantastic selection of books. -1 star because the cat ran away when I tried to pet it but +1 star because the cat is very cute.

  • Thomas Brasch

I found some amazing treasures. I also couldn't believe how well organized the store was...authors listed alphabetically. Friendly service.

  • Lamii Silly

Great selection of books for a nice price, the clerk was very knowledgeable and Churchill , the store’s orange Cat gatekeeper was so cute

  • Yoko K

I like the atmosphere here. They have various books from popular best selling ones to hidden gems. Their cat Churchill is adorable.

  • Rupali Kapur

A variety of books in varied qualities and some in a few different languages too. Plus, try to spot Churchill the shop cat

  • Bree Arbor

One of the best used book stores in the area. Great selection, owner is very friendly and helpful. Plus there's a cat.

  • Brandon Dulson

Really charming small bookstore. Staff are always friendly and I usually leave with some well priced graphic novels.

  • Rasna

Many books and also had lots of comics for good prices <3 but my favourite part was the cat …

  • katerina bavaro

My favourite bookstore in Toronto! They have a wide selection of genres at an affordable price.

  • MrChocheech

Owner is really cool and knowledgeable. Good selection and fair prices. New stock all the time

  • Douglas Ferguson

A nicely curated bookshop. The owner will be glad to help you find what you are looking for.

  • Hayley M

Awesome selection of books and the cat was a nice bonus 10/10 oh lawd he comin …

  • Hardeep Bains

Perfect place to buy and sell books. The owner is friendly and very professional.

  • Samantha Lima Aguilar

Favourite book store! They have a chubby ginger cat . Best customer service …

  • Daniel “Thelonious” Mok

Very kind staffs, good selection of books and decent prices! Cute cat too!

  • Kevin Chen

love this place. could spend hours searching.

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