There’s no stronger catnip for book lovers than a new independent bookstore. While Calgary has its fair share of iconic spots, there’s a new shop to put on your radar – especially if you’re a fan of romance.
The Forbidden Library is Calgary’s second and newest romance bookstore. Joining the pioneering Slow Burn Books in Marda Loop, these local shops sell nothing but – you guessed it – romance novels! So if you’re tired of leafing through the single heart-spangled corner of your regular bookstore, you need to check this place out.
The romance bookstore opened its doors for the first time this February. Started by a local woman with over a decade of business experience, she actually didn’t pick up her first romance novel until 2020. As many with similar stories can empathize, what followed was a full-tilt obsession as she fell head-over-heels in love with the romance genre.
As she says on her website, “The stories, the characters, the emotions—I couldn’t get enough. I realized that this was my true passion. I decided to take everything I had learned about running a business and pour it into something I absolutely loved. ”
The bookstore carries a sweet line of merch along with all sub-genres of romance like contemporary, fantasy, historical, and sports to just scratch the surface. The store embodies a distinctly moody vibe with dark paint and vintage-inspired decor. There’s even a dedicated Naughty Nook for those who want to read something a little spicier.
Another boon is that unlike most of Calgary’s indie bookstore scene, you don’t have to go all the way downtown to shop here. The convenient location in SE Calgary is easy to get to with ample parking so you can take your sweet time.
If you love a good love story, this is the place.
The Forbidden Library
Where: 755 Lake Bonavista Drive SE, Suite 167, Calgary
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