Barely Bruised Books
A charming independent bookstore on the second floor of a Sandy Hill building, Barely Bruised Books carries over 80,000 new and used titles across all genres, with a personally curated feel and the largest Indigenous book section in Ontario.
Features
About Barely Bruised Books
Barely Bruised Books is an independent bookstore tucked away on the second floor at 315 Wilbrod Street in Ottawa's Sandy Hill neighbourhood, just steps from the University of Ottawa campus. Owned and operated by James Scott MacKillop, the shop carries over 80,000 titles spanning new, used, and antiquarian books — including rare editions and signed printings.
What sets Barely Bruised Books apart is the deeply personal, curated feel of the collection. The owner is known for his extensive knowledge of literature and willingness to offer personalized recommendations. The space is adorned with original artwork from local Indigenous artists, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages browsing.
What to Find
The store covers an impressive range of genres and subjects:
- Fiction & Literature — Modern fiction, literary classics, and poetry
- Non-Fiction — Philosophy, psychology, politics, and art
- Indigenous & First Nations — The largest Indigenous/First Nations book section in Ontario, including Inuktitut titles
- Rare & Collectible — Antiquarian books and signed editions
- New Age & Supernatural — A curated selection of esoteric titles
- Children's Books — All children's literature is offered for free
Visitor Information
- Hours: Tuesday–Friday 11 AM – 7 PM, Saturday 12 PM – 7 PM, Sunday 11 AM – 5 PM, Monday closed
- Discounts: Students receive 30% off for every $10 spent; non-students receive 20% off
- Services: Book finding service available; consignment sales for special books
- Note: The store is located on the second floor (upstairs)
Getting There
- Address: 2-315 Wilbrod Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 6M5 (second floor)
- Neighbourhood: Sandy Hill, near the University of Ottawa
- Transit: Multiple OC Transpo routes serve the nearby Rideau Street and King Edward Avenue corridors
- Parking: Street parking available on Wilbrod Street and surrounding streets
FAQ
Where is Barely Bruised Books in Ottawa?
Barely Bruised Books is located on the second floor at 2-315 Wilbrod Street in Sandy Hill, Ottawa, ON K1N 6M5. It's near the University of Ottawa campus.
What are the hours for Barely Bruised Books?
Barely Bruised Books is open Tuesday to Friday from 11 AM to 7 PM, Saturday from 12 PM to 7 PM, and Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM. The store is closed on Mondays.
Does Barely Bruised Books offer student discounts?
Yes, students receive a 30% discount for every $10 they spend. Non-students receive a 20% discount.
What kinds of books does Barely Bruised Books sell?
Barely Bruised Books carries over 80,000 new, used, and antiquarian titles across all genres including fiction, philosophy, poetry, psychology, politics, art, Indigenous/First Nations literature, new age, and children's books. They also have rare editions and signed printings.
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