Massy Books in Vancouver is a space designed to hold, tell and prioritize the stories that have been traditionally overlooked or ignored. When you enter the store you surround yourself with history you may not know or a future you didn’t see as a possibility. We caught up with founder and owner Patricia Massy to learn more.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Massy Books. We are a new and used Indigenous-owned bookstore on the territory of the xʷməθkʷəyəm (Musqueam), Sḵwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and selílwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, formerly the site of k’emk’emeláy̓ village, also known as Vancouver, BC. We prioritize the voices and stories of over-excluded authors and artists, create space for the community to gather, connect, and organize, and in some ways, operate as a philanthropic venture. We were the first bookstore in BC to be designated as a Living Wage Employer, and have been voted Best Bookstore and Best Employer in Vancouver (Georgia Straight 2023). We are Rick Hansen Certified, BC Green Business Certified, and a designated Apartheid-Free Business with the Canadian BDS Coalition. We have raised and donated over $180,000 to local charities and organizations, and given Massy Arts Society — our non-profit and community hub dedicated to supporting the practices of Indigenous and over-excluded artists — approx. $100,000 over the last several years to operate. When you shop at Massy, you truly support our staff, the community and the local economy!
What made you want to do this work?
One of my first jobs out of high school was working within the now defunct Save-on-Foods book department. In the following 15 years, I went to work at various bookstores until I eventually tried it on my own. Books and the stories they carry have saved me multiple times – imparting wisdom, providing guidance, and expanding my empathy for others and myself in the world. I wanted to be surrounded by these stories, the people who read them, and the environment and worlds they create.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
When I started out I wanted to carve out space for stories often overlooked and intentionally left out. I wanted to read about my own history as an Indigenous woman. I also wanted to use my business as a force for good. I didn’t know it at the time of starting the shop, because I didn’t know it was possible, but at the heart of what we now do is act as a force for change and collective liberation, whether in sharing stories that allow us to imagine these futures or in raising money to make it happen.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Everyone!
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We primarily sell new and used books, some tote bags and bookmarks. You will not find pillows, board games, socks or other trinkets at our shop.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
Wherever there is an Indie bookstore! Book now downtown on Pender St., Commercial Drive, and many other locations across the city.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
Hands down, reading books is the best part of bookselling. Worst part, is accounting, although I am really good at it.
Where can we follow you?
Instagram | Facebook | Website
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
Our neighbours, Treasure Green Tea Company. You absolutely need their ice tea in your life!
