Canadian Independent Bookstore Day 2026

(From left to right), Claira Blakely, Owner Shannon McKechnie & Miranda Schonberger of Commonplace Books in Ingersoll on CIBD. (Kyrah Smith photo)

Kyrah Smith, Echo Correspondent

Books and coffee went hand in hand on April 25 as communities across the country celebrated Canadian Independent Bookstore Day (CIBD), a day dedicated to recognizing the passionate professionals who help keep Canada’s reading culture thriving.

While the event has been around for several years, it began to take shape in 2020. Originating in the United States before making its way north, CIBD is driven by the Canadian Independent Booksellers Association, an organization committed to supporting and advocating for indie bookstores nationwide.

Festivities included giveaways, most notably the coveted Golden Ticket, storewide sales, and author events.

“We’re excited to be a part of the campaign this year,” said Shannon McKechnie, owner of Ingersoll’s Commonplace Books, adding that the event was a clear success. “We had people lined up this morning. Our Golden Ticket, which was a year’s worth of audiobooks, was found within 15 minutes of opening.”

Commonplace Books kept the celebration going throughout the weekend, hosting an author panel that featured several independently published writers. “I think indie bookstores have to support indie authors too,” McKechnie noted, sharing that supporting independent voices was one of the driving forces behind opening the shop.

There has also been a noticeable increase in the number of active readers, with many turning back to physical books over digital screens.

“What I love about physical books, and what I hear from customers all the time, is the return to a tactile experience,” McKechnie said.

Research suggests that reading physical books can improve comprehension and retention. “I think many folks are looking to get away from their phones, and we’re seeing a renewed interest in print books, vinyl, and other analog activities,” she added.

Other local bookstores joined in the celebration, including the recently opened Hidden Gem Book Co. and Blue Ink in Woodstock, both of which hosted their own promotions and Golden Ticket giveaways.

“It’s been crazy,” said Darren Power, owner of Hidden Gem. “We just had our opening last weekend, and now we have this. It’s great.”

With multiple independent bookstores thriving in the area, the strong support from the community is clear. Canadian Independent Bookstore Day celebrated the important role these spaces play in fostering connection, creativity, and a shared love of reading.

To learn more about Canadian Independent Bookstore Day, visit https://www.indiebookstores.ca/cibd/.