Toronto's quirkiest bookstore — The Monkey's Paw specializes in unusual, out-of-print, and forgotten books. The famous 'Biblio-Mat' is a repurposed vending machine that dispenses random used books for $5, and it has achieved cult status online. The curation is idiosyncratic and wonderful: old manuals, obscure philosophy, vintage children's books.
Neighbourhood: Bloorcourt · Address: 1067 Bloor St W, Toronto
Why visit The Monkey's Paw
The Biblio-Mat is mandatory — feed it $5 and see what fate delivers. The curation rewards serendipity; wander without a goal. This is the best bookstore in Toronto for gift shopping because everything feels like a discovery. The owner is often behind the counter and happy to talk books.
Practical details
- Hours: Mon–Sat 11am–6pm, Sun 12–5pm
- Check the official website for The Monkey's Paw