The Book Mark in Etobicoke is Toronto's oldest independent bookstore. In the 43 years of operation the store has moved twice and changed ownership a couple of times, yet remarkably, has maintained its charm throughout the years. By charm I mean a cozy, friendly not flashy or pretentious charm, something more fitting in a small town than the big city. Its location then is a natural fit, the wealthy West-end Bloor St. village of Kingsway.

Despite the fact its targeted demographics are typically older, middle-age or young parents with infants, and not "twenty-something yupsters", the staff is dedicated to knowing a wide variety of literature to fit particular tastes. The Book Mark is an important staple in West Toronto and it store should remain the oldest independent bookstore for a long time to come. Again though I caution, minipolisaphobics beware.

See more photos and read an interview with the owner of The Book Mark in our bookstore section.