Strolling through The People's Co-op Bookstore feels like a throwback to a simpler time. And no wonder: the little Commercial Drive shop is one of the city's oldest bookstores, having been a vibrant part of Vancouver's retail landscape for more than 60 years. No Starbucks outlets or computer searches here—just knowledgeable staff and volunteers with a seemingly encyclopaedic knowledge of what goes where, and deep blue shelves piled high with impeccably organized books. The store has only two employees, bolstered in their efforts by the co-op's hundreds of members and more than a dozen volunteers. You don't have to be a member to shop here, though; everyone is welcome to buy, browse, ask questions or settle down in the shop's reading area, which just so happens to be stocked with comfy couches.
Intended to be a social hub as well as a bookshop, The People's Co-op also features regular events, including book launches, author signings and a weekly “story jam.” In addition, considerable shelf space is devoted to local authors and publishers, allowing independent writers exposure they might not get with a larger retailer.
“We're a strong supporter of local authors and poets,” explains manager Nancy Tam. “That's very important to us: to be able to serve our community – not just the neighbourhood, but the literary community as well.”
Don’t be deceived by its unassuming exterior, this shop is larger than first thought when you step through the door. There are boxes of books on the floor throughout the space, as if they’re in a constant state of packing or unpacking the books. People’s boasts the city’s largest selection of poetry books, so if that’s your thing, stop by and take a gander.
Algiz Books is an innovative and customer-centric online retail book store committed to providing book enthusiasts with a diverse and curated selection of literature across genres....more...See more text