Massy Books

458 reviews

229 E Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1Z6, Canada

www.massybooks.com

+16047214405

About

Massy Books is a Book store located at 229 E Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1Z6, Canada. It has received 458 reviews with an average rating of 4.8 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday10AM-6PM
Tuesday10AM-6PM
Wednesday10AM-6PM
Thursday10AM-6PM
Friday10AM-6PM
Saturday10AM-6PM
Sunday10AM-6PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of Massy Books: 229 E Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1Z6, Canada

  • Massy Books has 4.8 stars from 458 reviews

  • Book store

  • "This is an example of an excellent book store"

    "Lovers of all literature, this is the place to be"

    "After ordering from Massy online (which has been a great experience!) and falling in love with this small business over instagram, I finally got a chance to visit in person"

    "I haven't been into their brick and mortar store yet, but I have ordered through their website and they're fantastic! The selection is carefully curated, and I love the option to choose used or new (when a used copy is available)"

    "This is one of the best, if not the best, bookstore in Vancouver"

Reviews

  • Effie S

This is an example of an excellent book store. We are big collectors, and though we had less interest in the general selection, the rare books in the locked glass case were a delight to look at. The staff also didn't hound us or monitor us while we examined all the books and we took our time doing so (we inspect books quite meticulously). Once we selected the books, we returned to pay. A rare book set we recognized had just come out of a box and was being prepared to be priced. We inquired about it and even though it had not been put on the floor, it was offered to us on the spot and at an excellent price. We really appreciated that, that the staff were so friendly and accommodating, and also they gave us a nice tote for free to protect the box set. Will certainly stop in again on our next visit to this city.

  • T. Vitez

Lovers of all literature, this is the place to be. Be warned, you will not leave empty handed. There is every genre you can imagine, and more. The vibe is incredibly intimate and calm, it gave me the chance to connect with the books I was interested in, and appreciate the ones I left behind. It was lovely talking with the staff, and getting to know some of their favourite picks (if you’re shy and not ready to chat, there are “staff picks” throughout the store you can read up on as well). Supporting local shops is incredibly important, and the fact that this shop supports local artists makes it that much more of a go to spot. The kindness I experienced in the store is something so unique to those who support their community; you know that everyone is welcome, and that it’s a safe space to be.

  • Meagan Santiago

After ordering from Massy online (which has been a great experience!) and falling in love with this small business over instagram, I finally got a chance to visit in person. I'm still vibrating from the experience and have told so many friends about it! The bookstore itself was so well-stocked with exactly the types of books I want to read, felt like a refuge from settler colonialism, and even has a hidden entrance to the children's department! Dani and Hari were the staff that heard what I was looking for, took me under their wings and led me around the store, loading me up with alllll their favourite works by Filipinx writers. I felt so seen, accepted and sincerely cherished for being there. I can't wait until my next visit!

  • Erin Osborne

I haven't been into their brick and mortar store yet, but I have ordered through their website and they're fantastic! The selection is carefully curated, and I love the option to choose used or new (when a used copy is available). When I had questions, their customer service team were friendly and replied promptly. I hope the next time I'm in Vancouver I can actually make it into the store and meet these wonderful folx. Also, kudos to management for keeping masks in place to protect any of their clientele who may be vulnerable, along with their staff who are customer facing all day. I love this and will always choose to support companies who choose to elevate the health and safety of their staff and customers.

  • Todd Smith

This is one of the best, if not the best, bookstore in Vancouver. Every time I step through the doors, I am delighted. Most recently I purchased a number of children’s books for a few of the kiddos in my life. What struck me as unique and wonderful is how thoughtfully they have curated intersectional literature that highlights local indigenous history, folklore, LGBTQIA++ foundations, & Chinese culture & history. It was such a joy to discover books that I could share with friends & their children, to inspire bright young minds & big dreams. (As well as every single thing I could desire to read and discover about interests and topics that are new to me).

  • Kyla Epstein

This is my favourite bookstore...actually maybe my favourite business. Not only is the book content incredible and thoughtfully curated, the staff are knowledgeable and friendly. And if that wasn't enough...the business is operated with strong values of equity, justice, and solidarity. While I don't work there, I've been really impressed by their employment practices (Living Wage employer!) and their ways of communicating how they approach staffing the store. I love their way of being in the community and their support for issues that are important. Plus they get me all my special orders!

  • Alyssa Saddler

Immaculately curated, and great service and approachable staff. I always walk out with a bit more than I planned on buying, and totally worth it because every staff recommendation is spot on. Stepping into Massy over the last two years has been a little bit of refuge from a crazy world. Also - with every purchase I am proud to support the 1st bookstore in B.C. to be a certified as a living wage employer! “Small bookstores have the romance of doomed intimate spaces about to be erased by unfettered capitalism.” (not if we have anything to say about it)

  • Shreyasi Das

Lovely little book store with friendly staff! Has an upstairs with an art gallery and art books too! Love that they have categories that represent the stories of LGBTQ and BIPOC writers. Found a few antique gems in the art section as well as the Children's book section! Since the place is packed with books, there are narrow spaces between the bookcases. Please wear a mask if you plan to visit for the safety of everyone during the pandemic, as it can be sometimes hard to social distance when others are in the same section of the store.

  • Lily Cryan

Massy Books is my favourite local bookstore! I have gone in person many times and always had a welcoming, supportive experience. During the pandemic I got many books delivered! It was always super speedy, they had stock of what I was looking for, or they ordered things in especially for me. Massy is part of an amazing local community. I was able to attend Indigenous Brilliance a few times in the space and hear incredible local Indigenous artists share their work. Thank you Massy for being such a pillar of the local community!

  • regan kirkland

I’ve ordered online from Massy (I live elsewhere in the province) and the process was really easy and friendly and lovely. It’s a great option for someone who may not have a local bookstore that has the titles they’re looking for. Massy might have just what you’re looking for and will gladly make up a package for you. It’s nice to have a person on the other end of the email, and it feels good knowing they pay their staff a fair wage. Highly recommend as an online order option if you don’t live in Vancouver!

  • Laurie Landry

Massy Books is my go-to for purchasing books, and to check out their art gallery. I love that they give individual attention to me - they greet me at store, without being overly attentive, order me a book if they don't have a particular book in stock, and get the book fairly quickly! Also, they are so good with accessibility for their events. If I want to attend a writer's talk, I would request an ASL interpreter in advance, and most time they get an ASL interpreter. They are an asset to the community.

  • Soefae Chen

I visited Massy Books with a friend recently. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by two very friendly employees, one of which complimented my makeup, which made my day. I am very impressed with this bookstore as it has many sections promoting authors that don’t get as much recognition as they deserve, such as Indigenous authors. The bookstore interior is very tidy and organized. There is even a secret room hidden behind a bookshelf, which was quite a surprise :) Overall, would reccomend!

  • Samita Manhas

Massy Books has my heart for so many reasons - a wonderful owner, a lovely staff, a beautiful book selection (new and used) and a warm community vibe. If you’re not sure what to read, get a recommendation from the staff (or find irresistible staff reviews throughout the store!). Their selection from a vast variety of genres and sub-genres is rich and expansive. Prepare to have the urge to (gently) throw your books across the (carpeted) room because they are just so good.

  • Rachel W

I came in specifically to ask for recommendations on some very niche topics. The staff compiled a whole list of recommendations (some of which weren’t even sold in the store) with zero sales pressure.. Extremely cool and knowledgeable bunch of people. Plus, over a certain price you can get a discount or you can donate it to the Massy Arts fund. Massy is an Indigenous owned and operated bookstore—very important, and so thankful to have this gem in town.

  • Miranda R

They are always very friendly and let me roam in peace. It is refreshing to feel like you're not being stalked around a store by a staff . I have gotten a number of books from Massey over the years, and have enjoyed the ones that I've grabbed based on staff pics and recommendations. Using a gift certificate here has been easy in the past and using online ordering has also been very smooth sailing for me. Thank you for being amazing.

  • Kris B

Massy Books is located on East Georgia in Vancouver. It's an absolutely great bookstore. I went there for the first time today. I bought two art books plus a literature. The condition and quality of these books were excellent and the price was really great and affordable. The young girl who assisted me was also very respectful and polite and she knew her books and her store excellently. I really recommend Massy Books to all book lovers.

  • Ryu Kikuchi

A really neat place that has friendly and helpful staff, the atmosphere is great too as the space doesn't feel too cramped despite the tall bookshelves. In the back of the store there is a hidden room behind a bookshelf that sometimes might not be obvious. The small notes on books from the staff introducing their favourite books is really interesting and worth checking out. They have comics and other hard to find books too!

  • Rob McBroom

Amazing independent bookstore in the heart of Chinatown. They carry a wide variety books with what I believe to be among the largest and most varied selection of indigenous books in the area. The staff are super friendly and knowledgeable and prices are competitive. The store has sole and an accepting/welcoming feel to booklovers. The books alone are worth a visit, but be sure to also check out the art gallery upstairs!

  • sophie zhou

I love this place. The girls working in the store are so nice and friendly. Really love the books so very knowledgeable. Also very patient with my inquiry, and gave me many awesome suggestions. Haven’t been able to find books I get interested for long. With the helps I get from the place, I think the price of the book worth every penny. Thank you again for the wonderful experience, will definitely comeback if possible!

  • Samantha Bacchus McLeod

Wow! In the heart of Chinatown one can step into a space that is what today is all about. Safe, diverse, inclusive...if our world could mirror this store we would be well on our way to end injustice. The best selection of indigenous books ever too. This brilliant bookstore is Woman owned, and I believe, Indigenous owned too probably why it is a safe, inclusive space. Love it.

  • Emily Ross

My favourite book shop! They went above and beyond when I ordered specific books for my team at Christmas - letting me drop off handwritten cards which they then included in the shipped books. It's the little touches and extra care that remind me to support and love on local businesses. Plus, they're always keen to help, have a great selection, and the friendliest staff :)

  • FancyChristine

Massy books is a great space, and the staff are friendly and professional. I appreciate the large selection of books about Indigenous people, places and histories, it’s a very community-focused store, and I feel safe shopping there. The preorder process is easy, and I appreciate how it currently includes the option to make donations. Very grateful for Massy Books!

  • Paula Turcotte

Massy Books is the best bookstore I have ever been to. The staff are all so helpful and kind. They do their best to help you no matter what you’re looking for, and they carry interesting books you might not find elsewhere. I live in Calgary but every time I am in Vancouver I make it a point to come here. Buy your books at Massy!!!!!!!

  • M Sung

I love Massy Books! It’s one of the places I always take friends who are visiting from out of town - the look of pure joy when they see the hidden kids section is always worth the trip. The books are well curated - and I’ve always managed to get really good book recommendations from the amazing staff when I ask. Thanks for all you do!

  • Amanda Herron

Massy is my favourite bookstore in the city. Gorgeous + cozy space, kind + knowledgeable staff, and a thoughtfully curated selection. I’ve learned about some incredible books by chatting with the folks that work there and they’ve ordered in a ton of books that I couldn’t find elsewhere. It’s always a pleasure stopping by here.

  • Braden Yamamoto

An exceptionally curated bookstore full of absolutely necessary reads, new and used. Hands-down one of the best collections of Indigenous, Black, POC and queer books, all organized well for a super enjoyable shopping experience. Plan ahead; you will find your afternoon evaporating while you browse the shelves.

  • Jackie Tsaur

Trust the outstanding reviews, because they are one of the most popular bookstores in the city for a reason. They’ve done a great job maximizing every square inch of their space and each time I’ve been in, they happen to have the titles I’m looking for. Wonderful store to stop in on a day off/self-care day.

  • Hannah Jarvis

Massy is a Vancouver gem! I am always thrilled to shop there, the store is well stocked and the staff are lovely. Early in the pandemic they did book deliveries that were so wonderful tor receive at such a challenging time in the world. I appreciate the way in which they are by and for the community!

  • Tara Teskey

I adore this bookstore, it such a welcoming space with a great selection of books. Staff is extremely nice and knowledgeable- I love the staff picks with a brief description of the book. The hidden bookshelf to the kids section is absolutely magical & they have the BEST selection of children books.

  • felicity crisp

I always feel welcome at Massy. They have a range of topics and a great website. I have never felt ashamed for asking for a rare book, not buying a book due to price, or not knowing the name of a book. The staff are very patient and knowledgeable. They also have second hand books at good prices :)

  • Carolina Santos

One of those places where you can smell the books and walk around trying to grasp all the amazing work that is available. The staff was very polite and I got great books! And yes, masks are mandatory. If you don't like it, find another book store and move on. Don't be an idiot.

  • Jesse Byiers

My favourite book store in the city. Phenomenal selection of fiction, poetry and indigenous lit as well as extensive reads on queer, gender and sexwork. With art and drama works upstairs that doubles as a gallery from time to time I can get lost in this store for endless hours.

  • Britt McGillivray

My favourite bookstore in the city — kindest staff, best book selection, incredible selection of Indigenous literature. The books are so thoughtfully categorized and the store’s anti-oppressive values are made clear. Thanks for being such a safe and inspiring place, Massy!

  • Robyn Kurtz

Massy is a rad bookstore with lots of amazing books and a great, friendly, knowledgeable staff. I have appreciated their delivery service, and they have often brought in books for me. They are also awesome community members who make vancouver a better place to be.

  • Ginny

It feels a lot like picking a favourite child to pick a favourite bookstore, but Massy is my favourite. The staff are spectacular and their influence in the community goes so far beyond their storefront. I've never been happier or prouder to support a business.

  • 探险家Ramona

I love this little treasure hidden in Chinatown. Great team and a great selection of books I thought I never get my hands on. Love the little reading room hidden behind the bookshelf. Go and check it out. A little world on its own in a world of magical books.

  • Lindsay Vermeulen

My favourite local spot to buy books. Fantastic selection, easy online ordering and in-store pickup, and helpful staff. I love that they've created a safe in-store shopping environment by continuing to mask. Fun space to browse—look for the secret room!

  • Danny Lybbert

We ordered colouring books for care packages we were sending out - they arrived super quick and the process was easy. Happy to support Indigenous business and happy to hear they are continuing to require masks; it makes me feel better visitng in person

  • Sophie

lovely Indigenous owned bookstore that seems to have fostered the sweetest community in both Vancouver and online. they have a great and extensive book selection. my first order is on the way and service and communication have been fantastic so far!!!

  • Sofia Lowenstein

Really good selection of books if you're into socioeconomic issues. It also has a good selection of local authors, authors of colour, indigenous authors, and topics of all kinds. Just overall amazing selection and atmosphere and wonderful staff.

  • Nikki Douglas

Great bookstore, tons of options and the prices were completely reasonable, actually got lots of deals! Loved seeing so many local authors books available here. Highly recommend skipping the trip to Indigo or Amazon and checking this place out!

  • Travis Amyott

Charming book store, with friendly and knowledgeable staff. Fun to explore, and get lost in. Easy to order books, if they do not have in stock; they are happy to also redirect you to another store if it's a better option. Welcoming to all :).

  • Silver Stevens

Massey has long been a safe space to explore literacy . With an assortment of books for all interests, you will be sure to make an adventure of heading to Massey! I appreciate the customer service offered by the staff and look forward to my

  • kwiis hamilton

Shoutout to massy book store for always having the best selection of books and such a helpful and friendly staff. They’re one of my favourite businesses hands down! Can’t say enough good things about their whole team of wonderful and

  • Robin Rivers

Since the pandemic started, Massy Books has become my go-to for local Vancouver book shopping. The team there is so helpful and warm, the selection is great, and I know that my purchases are doing good for the community as well. Massy is

  • Robyn Adams

I love massy books! They have an amazing collection of books. I got a few about plants and architecture from the upstairs. But I also got a graphic novel in the back on the main floor. The books I got are about or written by indigenous

  • Rob

One of my favourite stops when I'm in the hood. A nice haven from the busy pace of life. I come to just browse the fantastic selection, sit and read a few paragraphs, and - ugh - I always leave with a new book or two. I'm not mad.

  • jen

a real treasure! i was only in vancouver for a few days but had read about this bookstore and really glad i got to stop in. come for the indigenous lit, stay for the small but mighty bees section upstairs. i hope to visit again.

  • Chiara Berton

A very nice and cosy book store. I was very excited about the secret room behind a bookshelf. There is a great selection of books, also second-hand books. The only thing is that some books are to high placed to even look at.

  • Kirsten Pendreigh

Love Massy Books! Awesome staff & great selection. The owner supports local writers by hosting book launches and readings in their new gallery. And, she is a living wage employer. Great place for online orders too! :)

  • Kirk Chantraine

Amazing book store! Great selection, super kind staff, and will work hard to special order things for you. I always buy my personal, but also business books through them too. Love all their community efforts too!

  • Elsi Dawson

Always welcoming, so helpful. Staff are knowledgeable, non-judgmental, and genuinely warm. Every time I'm here, I see interactions with the wider community that makes me proud to call this my local bookstore.

  • Lindsay Yuasa

I love being able to order books and pick up around the corner, plus the staff are super helpful. Happy to support a small shop and living wage employer. We are so lucky to have Massy Books in our community!

  • Julie

Favourite bookstore in vancouver! Very cozy, neat and it has various kind of books about gender, indigenous people, and LGBTQ+. Reasonable prices for second-hand books, they are almost new.

  • Sarah C

Fantastic bookstore and epic staff! They go above and beyond to help anyone that comes in ♥️ Beautiful selection of books, some really hard to find gems here too. used books and new!! …

  • M S

A gorgeous local treasure. My dream of a bookstore come true! Floor to high ceiling shelves full of new and used books, a library ladder, hand-written recommendations from staff.

  • MikeGonzales84

Great book store. Indigenous owned. Great selection. Easy to find. Definitely recommend visiting. I will be returning and getting a few more books at a later date.

  • jordie

cozy and Indigenous owned! has a great selection in books, cute Indigenous designed bookmarks and soaps etc. and friendly workers! I absolutely love shopping here

  • Steph B.

Fantastic, friendly staff and the perfectly curated book selection easily makes this bookstore my favourite place in the Vancouver area (and maybe the world??)!

  • Theodore Jakob

Phenomenal bookstore, incredibly helpful staff & great selection. The staff are very knowledgeable. Couldn't give a higher recommendation!

  • Raneen Al Timimi

Great shop! I was able to order online ..they're quick and efficient. I'm based in Montreal / Tiohtìa:Ke and it was shipped quickly

  • Ya-Shiuan Teresa Tsai

The staff is fantastic, and I love how inclusive the space is, by asking patrons to wear masks to protect everyone.

  • Violeta Laralá

Really nice bookshop with a good selection of books, lots of indigenous literature, and lovely and helpful staff

  • Maria N

One of my favorite indie book stores in Vancouver. Great selection of books and friendly staff!

  • kawaii hatchiko

Love this beautiful space! Great selection cute little nook in the back with lovely books!

  • James Holgate

The secret reading room was open. The selection is interesting and changes every visit.

  • Anton

Maybe the best bookstore I have visited! Absolute must go with incredible selection.

  • Mikki Herbold

Great selection of books and very helpful to find and order any book you want

  • Marie Galka

Great experience! Got helped choosing the books by the man that works there.

  • Sarah

Not just the store we love, but the store we need. …

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