About Us | link-ember

How It All Began

In 2018, a group of independent booksellers gathered in a small café in Montreal. They shared a common concern: despite the enduring appeal of physical books, local bookstores were struggling to reach new customers in an increasingly digital world.

From that conversation emerged link-ember—a collaborative network designed to celebrate and promote independent Canadian bookstores. We understood that each store possesses its own identity, yet all share a commitment to fostering genuine connections between readers and books.

Today, our network includes over forty independent bookstores across nine provinces. We've helped thousands of readers discover their local literary havens while supporting the booksellers who make these spaces possible.

Our Mission

We exist to ensure that independent bookstores remain vibrant centres of Canadian cultural life. These aren't merely retail establishments—they're community gathering places where ideas circulate freely and where a love of reading passes from one generation to the next.

Books arranged artistically on wooden surface — Every book represents a possibility waiting to be discovered

Our approach centres on authenticity. We don't believe in generic marketing or impersonal customer service. Instead, we help bookstores share their unique stories and connect with readers who appreciate what makes each location special.

We also advocate for Canadian literature at every opportunity. Our member stores prioritize local authors, host literary events, and maintain deep relationships with Canadian publishers both large and small.

What We Believe

Community First

Bookstores thrive when they serve as genuine community spaces. We support programming that brings people together around shared literary interests.

Expertise Matters

A knowledgeable bookseller offers something no algorithm can replicate: genuine understanding of both books and the people who read them.

Local Roots

Each bookstore reflects its neighbourhood. We celebrate this diversity while building connections across our national network.

Our Team

The link-ember team comprises former booksellers, publishing professionals, and lifelong readers. We understand the challenges facing independent bookstores because many of us have worked behind those counters ourselves.

People collaborating at a table with books — Dedicated to supporting independent booksellers across Canada

Our headquarters in Toronto serves as a coordination point for our national network. However, our true strength lies in the relationships we've built with booksellers from St. John's to Victoria—people who wake up each morning excited to share their passion for books.

Want to learn more about partnering with our network or finding a bookstore near you?