Unexpected treasures

Crestview

I love the feel and smell of old books and was drawn to GLOBOsapiens Used Bookstore after reading the welcoming sign outside.

As an avid reader, I was intrigued by what I saw at the store, which is located at 3096 Portage Ave. There were multiple books stacked on shelves, floor to ceiling, in an organized fashion. I was not disappointed by my experience. Immediately walking in, I felt welcomed by the owner with a sense that I was home. The friendly environment is filled with a diverse selection of books, as well as a kids’ corner featuring a cozy chair and table for their visitors.

I was impressed by the owner, Cathy Buttazoni, also known as the ‘Boss Lady’, in her ability to direct me to any section of the store with great ease. The variety of books was outstanding, and I could comprehend why the website mentioned finding unexpected treasures. Buttazoni described her store as fast-moving with modern books and some surprises thrown in. There is a specific section for Manitoba writers.

According to the Community Votes, GLOBOsapiens was voted the best used bookstore in 2025, receiving cilver, following the big two ‘New Book’ stores McNally’s and Chapters/Indigo, and in the ‘Rare and Used Bookstore Category’ it was voted gold.

What made the store particularly intriguing was the strange tale relayed to me after hearing thuds in the store one day when no one else was there but me and the owner. She indicated it was books mysteriously falling off the shelves when you least expected it, and she revealed the place was subject to haunting events. I shared her sentiments after hearing these sounds myself, as there was no explanation why this occurred, or how a book could just land on the floor. The event created a mysterious perception around the books, and I felt there were so many untold stories behind who owned these books that we would never know.

The ambience, mystique and fascination to explore the many shelves of books felt like time was standing still, and I found it hard to leave. I will return one day soon and see what further treasures await me.