The Monkey’s Paw

The Biblio-Mat mystery book vending machine at The Monkey's Paw in Toronto
Photo: Craig Small. CC BY-SA 2.0.

Odd old books and a quick $5 Biblio-Mat surprise. This Place draft was checked on August 30, 2026. Recheck details that can change before publication.

Address1067 Bloor Street West, Toronto
Best forOdd old books and a quick $5 Biblio-Mat surprise
CostA Biblio-Mat token costs $5. Regular books have their own prices.

Our honest take

The mystery-book machine is cheap, local and more memorable than browsing a generic bookstore.

It is a very short stop, and the random book may not interest you.

Plan the visit

Transit: Use Dufferin Station, then walk east along Bloor Street West.

Access: Public information does not fully explain the step-free entrance or aisle width. Contact the shop before a mobility-sensitive visit.

Hours and timing: Posted hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. The shop is closed Monday.

Check the official visitor information

Frequently asked questions

What is the Biblio-Mat?

It is a vending machine that dispenses one random old book for a $5 token.

Can I choose the book?

No. The surprise is the point.

Who made the Biblio-Mat?

Toronto artist Craig Small designed the machine for The Monkey's Paw.

How long do I need at The Monkey's Paw?

Allow 20 to 45 minutes unless you want to browse the shop carefully.

Is The Monkey's Paw wheelchair accessible?

The public page does not answer every access question. Contact the shop about its entrance and aisles before travelling.