Our History

If the bookshelves at Gulliver’s could talk they would have many tales to tell besides the ones written in the books they house. They could tell stories of everything from the excitement of author’s visits and bestsellers to watching young customers grow up and the community change and grow. Luckily, Gulliver’s has the voices of its original customers who still visit regularly and lend their stories to these tales. Twenty years of providing the community special events, book releases, author visits, quality books, toys and games are the reason for celebration this November.

It was 20 years ago Suzanne Brooks discovered there was a need for more quality children’s literature in the North. Her determined spirit led her to open a business in the basement of her home, where she sold quality books. Suzanne was very successful so she opened a store to sell, not only the quality children’s books she chose, but products for all ages. Today, Suzanne notes she did not imagine it would grow as big as it has, or she would receive the honours she has. She has served on national boards in the book industry and is currently past-president of the Book and Periodical Council, an umbrella organization the member associations from all aspects of the book industry.

Gulliver’s calls 157 Main St. W. in North Bay its home in the heart of the city. It can be said the store has had a big part in keeping that heart beating. Gulliver’s staff prides themselves in reaching out to the community with sponsorships, serving on the boards, providing specialized displays for conferences, selling tickets for community events and supporting, with enthusiasm, many local ventures.

Gulliver’s is proud to be serving a second generation of North Bay families, with staff who remember coming to meet Franklin as children and buying a book. The memories of such a creative and fun atmosphere prompted the former customers to apply to be a part of the future of the store. Thanks to the support of the community and our customers. Gulliver’s is still a strong local business.
As new arrivals are placed on its bookshelves, the store shows no signs of slowing down. What started as an interesting experiment is now a way of life for many.

Thank you everyone for your continued support, past and present. Please come celebrate 20 years of Gulliver’s Quality Books and Toys. We look forward to thanking you in person at our event.