Hidden behind a modest exterior on Rue Milton stands The Word Bookstore. This isn’t just any bookstore. It’s a Montreal institution a literary haven steeped in history.
The Word Bookstore began in 1973 not in this charming building but in a small apartment. Adrian King-Edwards and Lucille Friesen McGill students transformed their living room into an underground bookstore. They sold secondhand books to their friends. A photo of George Bernard Shaw graced their window. It drew in customers. They hosted poetry readings. These impromptu literary salons created a loyal following.
In 1975 they moved next door. The Chinese laundromat that had occupied the space for 70 years had closed. The couple moved their books into a 19th-century brick building. The Word Bookstore was born. It remains at 469 Rue Milton.
The Word Bookstore isn’t your average bookstore. Its shelves overflow with books. They’re meticulously arranged but without signs. You have to search for what you want. This adds to its charm. It specializes in literature philosophy and poetry. You’ll find local Montreal poets’ works prominently displayed. The store also carries hard-to-find academic texts. It caters to McGill’s community.
The Word Bookstore continues its tradition of hosting readings. Though it’s no longer underground. It maintains its connection to Montreal’s literary scene. Authors like Mark Abley and Mary di Michele are featured. The bookstore also boasts a selection of French literature. The bilingual nature of Montreal is reflected in its selection.
This isn’t just a place to buy books. It’s a place to discover a hidden literary treasure. It’s a place to feel the warmth of a gas stove on a cold December day. It’s a place that feels like a step back in time. The Word Bookstore continues to thrive defying trends towards online shopping. It is a testament to the power of community and the enduring love of books. A visit is a step into a literary history.