About Us

Since its inception in 1995, Castaway Used Books (formerly Nearly New Books) has been a cherished part of the Comox community. Founded by Jean and Vic McFadden from Red Deer, Alberta, the bookstore originally opened in The Comox Mall. In 2004, the McFaddens moved the store across the street to 1761 Comox Avenue, next to the local coffee shop, where it operated until they passed the torch to the Kyles on July 1, 2008. Six years later, the store found its current home on the corner of Port Augusta Street, still within the same building.

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Rebranded as Castaway Used Books in the fall of 2024, this bookstore has remained a staple in downtown Comox for nearly three decades. A beloved “Mom & Pop” shop, Castaway is known for its welcoming atmosphere and unique trade-in policy. Customers can trade in their books for a 50% discount on other used books, a policy that has remained unchanged since the store’s early days, even as other shops have increased their prices. Most of the 25,000+ titles on the shelves are still priced at half their original cover price, with a minimum of just $2 per book.

 

Beyond books, Castaway Used Books has become a sort of community hub, often serving as an unofficial visitor information centre. Locals and tourists alike stop by to chat, share stories, and inquire about local happenings. Whether you’re seeking a particular title or simply looking for a cozy spot to explore, Castaway Used Books welcomes you.

 

So please, stop in — be sure to check our current hours — and perhaps you will come across that special book you had forgotten you'd long been searching for!