Job Title or Location

Bookseller

BookBar Canada Holdings Corporation

Toronto, ON

Job Details:

In-person
$18.00 - $22.00 / hour
Full-time
Experienced

About us

Book Bar is a bookstore and bar rooted in curated connection - a space where great stories and great drinks live side by side. We're not just a shop or a bar - we're a welcoming, layered "third place" that invites people to linger, discover, and converse.

By day, we offer a cozy haven for readers and the book-curious. By night, we transform into a lively, character-filled space for connection and community. Whether a guest is here to browse our shelves or sip a glass of wine, we aim to make them feel at home.

Position Overview

We're looking for a Bookseller who embodies warmth, curiosity, and hospitality - someone who knows how to make people feel welcome and inspired. You'll help readers find their next great book, offer drink pairings, and contribute to a team that believes culture is built through conversation.

You'll also assist on the bar side of operations, including running drink orders, bussing tables, event setup/teardown, or supporting our bartenders during peak hours. At Book Bar, we all contribute to the shared atmosphere.

You should love books, enjoy good conversations, and be excited about working in a space that blends books with hospitality.

We have multiple openings for Booksellers, with full and part-time opportunities available.

Key Responsibilities

  • Create a warm environment where every customer feels welcome and served above and beyond expectations
  • Offer book recommendations tailored to each customer's interests
  • Handle sales, returns, and POS transactions accurately and efficiently
  • Assist in merchandising, stocking, and maintaining an inviting store environment
  • Learn our selection of wines, beverages, and café offerings to help guests pair their drink with their read
  • Bar-side tasks including running drinks, bussing, and resetting tables
  • Support in-house events such as readings, book clubs, and small gatherings
  • Ability to be mobile on the sales floor for extended periods of time, and lift medium to large items, up to 40 pounds, while using appropriate equipment and safety techniques
  • Share ideas with the leadership team on how to improve the employee and customer experience
  • Contribute to a team culture that values hospitality, creativity, and curiosity

Qualifications

Required:

  • Love of books and reading is a must
  • 2-4 years' experience in bookselling retail and/or hospitality
  • Demonstrated commitment to creating an exceptional employee and customer experience
  • Adaptability, flexibility and a willingness to contribute to all aspects of the store
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a genuine passion for connecting with people
  • Ability to multitask and remain organized in a lively environment
  • Availability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends and holidays
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • SmartServe certified

Preferred:

  • Knowledge of contemporary and classic literature, poetry, or small-press titles
  • Interest in wine and beverage service (training provided)
  • Experience with programming and/or executing events
  • Experience in visual merchandising
  • Book Manager experience

What We Offer

  • A welcoming, creative workspace that celebrates inclusivity, individuality and community
  • Staff discounts on books, coffee, and wine
  • Opportunities to grow and help shape the bookstore's programs and selections
  • A collaborative, supportive team of readers, hosts, and creatives

We can't wait to meet someone who loves stories, enjoys thoughtful service, and wants to be part of a place where books and community come together. Including a cover letter with your application is a great way to let us know why you'd be a perfect pairing for our team.

If you've got unique experiences or perspectives-especially from underrepresented communities-we'd love to see your application.

Competition Number: bookbar-canada-holdings-corporation-bookseller-39bd3