ISSUE NO. 31
In 2006, two friends completing their PhDs in Canadian Literature at the University of Toronto noticed the shifting tides of retail, marked by the rise of Big Box stores and Amazon. Determined to preserve the fading tradition of classic bookstores, they decided to open one in the heart of Toronto on Queen Street West. Co-owners Joanne Saul and Samara Walbohm brought this vision to life by combining a bookstore with an art gallery—an innovative space where the gallery operated in the basement while the bookstore occupied the upper floor.
The art gallery was managed by Walbohm, while Saul took on the role of buying manager for the bookstore. Their endeavor became a reflection of Toronto’s vibrant culture and surroundings. Saul, who grew up fascinated by Victorian novels by authors such as George Eliot and Charles Dickens, alongside works by contemporary writers like Anna Historia, Maggie Nelson, and Dionne Brand, brought her passion for classic and modern literature to the store.
Coming from a family of writers and academics, Saul was raised in an environment of creative expression. Yet the original thousand-square-meter space proved insufficient for the growing attention and opportunities Type Books was attracting. In response, the business expanded: in 2008, a second branch was inaugurated in the Junction on Dundas Street West, followed by a third in 2018 in Forest Hill on Spadina Road. However, each branch retained its unique character and did not merely replicate the original.
Saul reflects: “My mother, a teacher for fifty years at York University, often said that the essence of the literary world is its ability to foster a community where ideas, knowledge, and wisdom are shared through lived experiences. This perspective inspired our work. We partnered with schools to create an educational platform called ‘Word Play,’ which later collaborated with York University. Today, teachers from York lead the initiative. Our mission is to engage with and immerse ourselves in local culture and practices”.
The Queen Street West location enjoys a prime spot near Trinity Bellwoods Park, a vibrant area teeming with independent businesses. «The view of the park from the store was a deciding factor for us. We couldn’t pass it up. Vogue even called it ‘One of the best neighborhoods in the world.’ Of course, the area has evolved, and so have our rents,» Saul notes.
She is quick to share credit for the store’s success: “Type Books thrives thanks to our team of experts, each passionate about their respective genres. Some of our staff have been with us since the very beginning, while others contribute on a part-time basis. Duties are thoughtfully assigned based on individual interests and skills. Over sixteen years of collaborative work, our team has become an integral part of the business. By empowering our staff to take ownership of their roles, we are empowered in return. Curiosity drives our efforts—our goal is not to compete with others but to continually grow and evolve.”
Type Books offers more than just books—it stocks stationery items, games, puzzles, and candles, curating an inventory designed to meet the needs of both readers and the local community. Visitors come not only to purchase birthday cards but also to attend book signings by renowned authors. Joanne Saul explains: “You won’t find books in our store that don’t sell. We’ve established a rule: if a book is ordered more than twice, it earns a place on our shelves. Conversely, if a book doesn’t sell within six to nine months, it’s returned.”
The store has hosted signings by authors such as Margaret Atwood, Sheela Chari, Ben Lerner, and even Saul’s own father, who has written over two dozen books on South African politics. «Canadian publishers help us showcase local writers and recognize their talents. We focus on minds that deserve attention. In light of the global challenges brought by COVID-19, literature has played a crucial role in both soothing and awakening lost spirits. Living in a diverse city and nation, we are deeply affected by societal issues. The ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement, for instance, brought a wave of questions and reflections.»
She adds: “We actively promote writers of color and marginalized voices, pushing for representation. Indigenous communities, in particular, have faced systemic erasure and misrepresentation. Their rights, land, religion, and spirituality have been stolen, and they’ve been forced into residential areas and schools under oppressive regulations. As booksellers, we have a responsibility to educate the public and foster awareness. Change starts with us. This isn’t just a Canadian or social issue—it’s a matter of humanity and the evolution of mankind. Our goal is to create a communal hub that remains true to fostering connection and belonging.”
During the pandemic, Type Books adapted to the shift toward online sales. They were featured in an online directory advocating for independent businesses, prompting them to expand their digital presence. «We had to embrace change and view failures as opportunities to discover our potential. When we launched online sales, we were stunned by the volume of orders. We worked hard to create an online shopping experience that retained the unique, personal touch of our physical store.»
The transition was supported by team members like Nick Rubi, a designer and buyer, and Kalpana Patel, who manages the store. They also collaborated with Jane Mount, an artist known for supporting small businesses, who had previously featured Type Books in one of her works. Mount contributed artwork and design ideas for the website’s structure. «We had the idea in March 2020 and were up and running by June. Margaret Atwood even ordered one of our ‘mystery bags,’ which contain four to five hand-selected books. While online events like Tuesday book readings are popular, they can’t fully replace the in-store experience,» Saul notes.
883 Queen St W, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
ISSUE NO. 31
Lampoon is a cultural magazine.
Culture today means sustainability – in its honest meaning.
Culture has always been about human respect, tolerance. It’s not only about accepting human diversity but it’s about searching for the beauty of every human peculiarity.
Inclusion is the first value that defines art. Culture today means one thing only: to be part of a community, to think as a community.
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