From Notability to Now: Top 3 Inclusive Bookstores in Ontario
Notability mobile bookstore was a cherished establishment in Ontario that offered a specialized collection celebrating diversity and Black literature. Though the store has closed its doors, its empowering mission, representing marginalized voices, and enriching reader lives left an inspiring legacy. Notability fostered inclusion through books and Authors that mainstream stores overlooked.
About Notability Bookstore
Notability Bookstore’s name blended “notable” and “ability” to communicate its uplifting vision – that all people, regardless of race, gender or background, deserve respect, visibility and attention.
This ethos was reflected in their selection of books, where diverse voices and unique stories found a platform.
Before its closure, this bookstore caught the trend and sold gambling literature. Books exploring gambling captured readers’ interests with their psychological, strategic, and cultural narratives. These stories delved into the minds of gamblers, the intricacies of gaming strategies, and the rich history surrounding gambling.
As a mobile and online store, Notability served readers across the Durham Region and beyond by specialized promoting Black authors and diverse voices overlooked by mainstream bookstores.
Online Bookstore & Categories
With COVID-19 limiting in-person shopping, Notability Bookstore adapted by growing its online store to reach wider audiences across Ontario and Canada.
The user-friendly site conveniently organized Notability’s collection into diverse categories that reflected the store’s mandate to amplify overlooked voices. Sections like Anti-Racist Reads, Bargain Bin, Children’s, Fiction and Nonfiction enabled visitors to easily discover relevant titles.
Specifically, the Anti-Racist Reads section contained vital contemporary works confronting racism and social injustice as well as notable historical examinations of systemic oppression.
Children’s Books at Notability spanned vibrant picture books, early readers and young adult novels celebrating Black stories and experiences. Families could discover empowering tales reflecting their children at formative ages.
Bargain Bin offerings ensured cost was not a barrier, granting more readers access. Affordable reads joined new releases under one roof.
This spectrum of categories and price points demonstrated Notability’s commitment to uplift marginalized perspectives. Through online accessibility, the store could continue enriching lives and sharpening social consciousness during an isolating period.
The digital shelves stood as a testament to Notability’s vision – that books grant everyone windows into realities once obscured.
Most Popular Books
“The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López
An inspirational children’s book that empowers marginalized youth to embrace their uniqueness and individuality through building connections.
Best Notability Alternatives in Ontario
A Different Booklist
A cultural hub promoting works by people of African descent and authors tackling social issues. The community-focused store hosts author events, talks, art exhibits and youth programming.
🕮 779 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5S 0B7
☎ (416) 538-0889
🔗 www.adifferentbooklist.com
Knowledge Bookstore
Operated by husband and wife team Itah and Miguel Sadike, Knowledge Bookstore sources a rich collection of African, Caribbean and Black children’s books and gifts. Their shop signifies more than a space – it is a movement to spread knowledge and racial pride.
🕮 177 Queen St W, Brampton, ON L6Y 1M5
☎ (905) 459-9875
🔗 www.knowledgebookstore.com
The Old’s Cool General Store
More than just a convenience store, The Old’s Cool General Store in East York is a community hub that celebrates local makers. Alongside everyday essentials, the shop stocks creations by neighbourhood artists and artisans ranging from kombucha to candles.
🕮 250 Westlake Ave, East York, ON M4C 4T4
☎ (416) 425-9084
🔗 www.oldscoolgeneralstore.com
