Nothing beats shopping local. It strengthens the community, supports the economy, and offers a better customer experience. Local, independent businesses are unique, they offer one-of-a-kind products, and one-of-a-kind service. Where else buy a product directly from its maker, learn the story behind its creation, and, at the same time, support your own city. So next time you’re on the hunt for a new book, why not check out one of these 10 amazing, independent bookstores in New Brunswick.

Westminster Bookmark – 88 York St, Fredericton

Westminster Bookmark is the newest edition to the Bookmark family, having just opened their Fredericton store in 2023. Located in a quaint brick building, Westminster Bookmark offers a wide selection of books, spanning across numerous genres, from classic literature, children’s fiction, new releases and so much more. In addition to their vibrant storefront, Bookmark strives to contribute to the local arts and culture scene, hosting a variety of events, including author book signings, book launches, and author talks. 

Bookends – 215 Main St E, Fredericton

Bookends in downtown Fredericton was voted one of the best used bookstores in 2024. They offer an extensive selection of books across all genres. Walk in, and you’ll be overwhelmed by the sheer volume of books available, shelves line every wall, overflowing with titles, stacks of books lay piled in every corner, walkway, available space. Yet, despite the vast amount of books, the titles re meticulously organized for customers to find exactly what they’re looking for. And if they don’t, store owner Gus is more than happy to order it in, or suggest a suitable replacement. In addition to al the book, Bookends sells an assortment of mugs, cups, and tumblers printed with bookish-themes, created by local artisan, Sun Set Designs.  

Cover To Cover Books Inc. – 630 Pinewood Rd, Riverview

Cover To Cover Books located in Riverview, is one of the few used bookstores in the area. They boast an extensive collection of fiction and non-fiction, across all genres. They’re known for their “Blind Date with a Book”, where customers can purchase a paper wrapped book, choosing solely based on the description and genre. These books are gently used, and come with a collection of fun book-themed goodies. 

Reads Books & Coffee – 347 Mountain Rd, Moncton

Part book store, part coffee shop, Read’s has the best selection of pre-read books in Moncton. Here, you’ll find remaindered books up to 90% off. They offer a wide selection including fiction, classic literature, French and English children’s books, non-fiction, French fiction, graphic novels, and so much more. Read’s can also print newspapers on demand, offering a selection of over 3,000 papers, including the Globe and Mail, National Post, and New York Times, to name a few. On their online website, they also sell a collection of rare books.

Mystic Moons Books & Brews – 69 Highfield St, Moncton

Mystic Moons Books & Brew began as a booth at the Moncton Farmer’s market in 2007, since then they opened a storefront location in 2012, before later moving in 201, to an old Victorian home. Music Moon is dedicated to serving the Maritime Pagan, Witch, and Occult community. Their goal is to educate the public and give back to the community, helping those in need who seek to better understand the path they tread. 

Mystic Moons is the oldest Witch and occult shop in the Maritimes, and features a wide selection of books, from ones on dreams, to others on tarot reading, pagan rituals, folk stories, and gardening. In addition, they sell candles, herbs, incense, and basically anything a witch might need. 

Scheherazade Books & Music – 97 Prince William St, Saint John

Located in the heart of downtown Saint John, Scheherazade Books & Music sells gently used literary fiction and nonfiction, as well as used CDs and LPs. Their store is known for it’s quaint exterior, painted a vibrant shade of blue, and charming window displays. Customers can sell back their old books for in-store credit. 

Pulp & Paper Books – 25 Princess Royal St, St. Andrews

Pulp & Paper Books is more than just a bookstore. This used bookstore also features records, vintage decor, and handmade gifts from maritime and Canadian artists. Their store believes in the power of support location, carrying a variety of goods, such as soaps, candles, spice mixes, and art, all homemade in small batches. Additionally, Pulp & Paper focuses on reducing and reusing, selling both preloved and upcycled decor. 

Blind Forest Books & Novelties – 69G Main St, Sackville

Blind Forest Books & Novelties located on Main Street in Sackville, is a family owned and operated used bookstore. They specialize in not just books, but also tarot card readings, astrological profiles, and tea leaf readings. With an extensive poetry section, non-fiction section, and children’s section, there is something for the whole family here. As for novelties, Blind Forest Books sells brand shirts, totes, and mugs, as well as tarot cards and candles. Additionally, they often host events, like their most recent vintage clothing pop-up, tarot reading parties, and more. 

Tidewater Books & Browsery – 13 Bridge St, Sackville

Tidewater Books & Browsery has spent the last 22 years hand-selecting books, to provide the community of Sackville with the very best in today’s literature. Whether you’re looking for the latest in Canadian literature, enthralling mysteries, current political topics, fine cooking and gardening, or wonderful children’s books, Tidewater has them. In addition, they also offer a large selection of unique greeting cards, magazines, journals, art supplies, puzzles, Folkmanis puppets, and so much more. Tidewater also hosts author events, and book signings. 

The Flying Canoe Bookstore – 110 Roseberry St, Campbellton

The Flying Canoe Bookstore, located in Campbellton, New Brunswick, is run by owner Tara Lemay, whose vision for the store was to create a community space where anyone could feel free to express themselves. Their store motto, “Geeks unite!” For The Flying Canoe, this means selling both new and used books, as well as comics, vinyls, arts and crafts materials, games, and collectable figurines. 

In addition to the wide selection of products available, the bookstore also functions as a cafe, with a small coffee bar located conveniently inside their store. The Flying Canoe is also known for their events, hosting weekly game nights, writing clubs, craft nights, trivia nights, open mics, and author events, to name just a few. And, like most used bookstores, they have an in-store credit program for customers who bring in old books, records, puzzles, and board games.

Whether you’re a New Brunswick local, or just visiting, we encourage you to choose local and support one of these 10 amazing, independent bookstores. To find out more about local independent bookstores, publishers, and authors head to our Instagram @atlanticbook.ca!