Canvasback Books, nestled in the heart of Klamath Falls, Oregon, is more than just a bookstore. It is a community hub, a sanctuary for bookworms, and — most importantly — a safe space for all.

In this profile, we delve into the story of how this charming bookstore has evolved and continues to inspire and support the local community.

Embracing the Local Spirit

Canvasback Books is an independently owned bookstore located at 1219 Main Street, Klamath Falls. The store is a testament to the community's spirit, offering a carefully selected range of books and gifts.

The bookstore is named after the native Canvasback duck, a species commonly seen around the basin, symbolizing the store's deep connection with its locale.

A Journey Through Time

Canvasback Books embarked on its literary journey in 2018, initially starting as a pop-up bookstore. In 2020, it opened its doors at the renovated 1906 Lake Hotel on Main Street. By 2022, the bookstore welcomed new ownership under Holly & Brittany Montjoy, marking the beginning of a new chapter.

Meet the Owners

Brittany Montjoy, along with her partner Holly, are the proud owners of Canvasback Books. They are devoted parents to two boys, Parker and Brody, and pet parents to two cats and a Rat Terrier named Preston. Their love for books and the community is evident in everything the store does.

More Than Books

Canvasback Books is built around a few pillars:

  • A carefully curated book selection — fiction, nonfiction, local interest, kids, parenting
  • Book clubs — including specialized genres like romance, mystery, and more — platforms for individuals to connect, share ideas, and foster a love for reading
  • Local author events and signings
  • Gifts and bookish accessories — for readers and the people who love them

Supporting Local Businesses

Canvasback Books emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses. Shopping local not only keeps money within the community but also contributes to its growth and development. Brittany and Holly walk that talk every day — sourcing local when they can, partnering with other Main Street businesses, and being a regular voice for downtown Klamath Falls.

Memorable Interactions

Every day at Canvasback Books brings new and memorable interactions. Whether it's helping someone find the perfect book or sharing a laugh in the parenting section, the bookstore is a place where people can connect on a deeper level — staff who actually read what they sell, customers who come back to talk about what they finished, and the unhurried pace that good bookstores demand.

Why It Matters

In an era when independent bookstores have been disappearing across the country, Canvasback's growth — pop-up to brick-and-mortar to new ownership to community fixture — is a quiet Klamath Falls success story.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, make sure to drop by and discover a world of stories waiting to be explored at 1219 Main Street.