MAKTABA is less a store, more a cultural heartbeat in the city, bringing a fresh perspective to Old Montreal, combining the soul of a bookstore with the flair of a boutique. Rooted in its Arabic name—meaning both “library” and “bookshop”—this space champions representation and culture, stocking a carefully curated collection of English-language books by authors of colour and other marginalized voices. Expect to find everything from political theory to magical realism, as well as an entire section devoted to Octavia Butler and children’s literature with a forward-thinking edge.

Inside, the vibe is both intimate and inspiring, with a majlis seating area inviting readers to settle in, sip tea, and explore ideas. The boutique adds another layer of creativity, offering vinyl records and one-of-a-kind merchandise crafted by artists close to the collective. As the headquarters for We Are The Medium, the space also hosts events like book launches and film screenings, making it as much about connection as it is about discovery.