Black Squirrel Books & Espresso Bar

About Black Squirrel Books

Black Squirrel Books & Espresso Bar is an independent bookstore and cafe on Bank Street in Old Ottawa South. The shop combines a carefully curated selection of new and used books with an espresso bar, creating a space where reading, coffee, and community come together. It has become a neighbourhood institution and a gathering place for Ottawa's literary and arts communities.

The store carries a wide range of genres, with a particularly strong selection of academic nonfiction, literary fiction, and hard-to-find used titles. New books are also available, including staff picks and local authors.

Books & Coffee

• Used Books — An extensive collection spanning fiction, nonfiction, academic texts, and rare finds
• New Books — Curated selection of new releases, staff recommendations, and local authors
• Espresso Bar — Coffee, tea, and light fare served alongside the books
• Buy & Sell — Bring in your used books to sell or trade

Events

Black Squirrel Books regularly hosts community events in its intimate space:

• Live Music — Concerts and performances across genres, often all-ages
• Open Mic Nights — A stage for local musicians, poets, and performers
• Author Readings & Book Launches — Meet local and visiting authors
• Trivia Nights — Regular pub-style trivia
• Community Events — Art shows, discussions, and neighbourhood gatherings

The shop has been involved with festivals like CityFolk's Marvest and Ottawa Explosion, and has supported initiatives like Ottawa's Rock Camp for Girls.

Visitor Information

• Hours: Check blacksquirrelbooks.ca for current hours
• Phone: 613-422-9050
• Parking: Street parking on Bank Street and surrounding side streets
• Accessibility: Street-level entrance

Getting There

• Address: 1073 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON K1S 3W9
• Neighbourhood: Old Ottawa South, on the Bank Street strip south of the Glebe
• Transit: OC Transpo routes along Bank Street; close to Billings Bridge station