Patrick McGahern Books
One of Ottawa's oldest antiquarian bookstores, operating since 1969 in the ByWard Market. Specializes in rare and collectible books, maps, and prints on Canadian history, Arctic exploration, and Irish literature.
Features
About
Patrick McGahern Books has been a fixture of Ottawa's ByWard Market since 1969, making it one of the city's longest-running independent bookstores. The shop specializes in antiquarian, rare, and out-of-print books, along with maps and prints. With over 30,000 titles in stock and thousands more available through their published catalogues (issued six times a year), it is a destination for serious collectors and casual browsers alike.
The store is a proud member of both ILAB (International League of Antiquarian Booksellers) and ABAC (Antiquarian Booksellers' Association of Canada), reflecting its standing in the rare book trade.
Specialties
- Canadiana & Americana — Early books on Canadian and American history, travel, and exploration
- Arctic & Antarctic — Rare volumes on polar exploration and voyages
- Irish & Scottish Literature — History and literary works from Ireland and Scotland
- Maps & Prints — Antique maps and illustrated plate books
- Natural History & Voyages — Travel writing and natural history texts
- Military History — Books covering military campaigns and history
- Fishing & Angling — Collectible titles on fishing
Visitor Info
- Hours: Friday and Saturday 10 AM – 5 PM, or by appointment
- Catalogues: Published six times a year with rare and scarce titles; nearly 10,000 titles also listed in their online database
- Payment: Contact the store for details
- Website: mcgahernbooks.ca
Getting There
- Address: 11 Murray Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 9M5
- By O-Train: Rideau Station (Line 1), about a 4-minute walk north through the ByWard Market
- Nearby landmarks: Steps from the National Gallery of Canada, Parliament Hill, and the National War Memorial
- Parking: Street parking and paid garages in the ByWard Market area
FAQ
Where is Patrick McGahern Books in Ottawa?
Patrick McGahern Books is located at 11 Murray Street in Ottawa's ByWard Market (ON K1N 9M5). It's about a 4-minute walk from Rideau Station on the O-Train Line 1, and steps from the National Gallery of Canada.
What are the hours for Patrick McGahern Books?
The store is open Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. Visits are also available by appointment. You can call (613) 230-2275 or visit mcgahernbooks.ca to arrange a visit.
What kind of books does Patrick McGahern Books sell?
Patrick McGahern Books specializes in antiquarian, rare, and out-of-print books. Key areas include Canadiana, Arctic and Antarctic exploration, Irish and Scottish literature, antique maps and prints, natural history, military history, and fishing and angling.
How long has Patrick McGahern Books been open?
Patrick McGahern Books has been selling antiquarian books in Ottawa since 1969, making it one of the city's longest-running independent bookstores. The shop is a member of ILAB (International League of Antiquarian Booksellers) and ABAC (Antiquarian Booksellers' Association of Canada).
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Information may change. Please verify details on the official website before visiting.