Ben McNally Books Announces Temporary Closure Due to COVID-19

Amid safety and health concerns relating to the COVID-19 pandemic, Toronto's beloved Ben McNally Books will be temporarily closing its doors to the public. McNally's son, Rupert, had been the store's sole employee during the outbreak, filling orders online and via phone.

The longstanding institution, located in the heart of the city's financial district, issued the announcement via their website which reads, in part:

"While we certainly consider bookselling to be an essential service, we also think that it is incumbent on all of us to do our part in stopping the progress of this rampant and pernicious infection. We would all feel more comfortable if Rupert were also at home.

We are sorry to let you down, especially if you have orders in process with us. We will inform you as the situation becomes more clear.

As always, we thank you for your continued support. We have been gratified by your expressions of support throughout this troubled time."

The temporary closing comes at an already troubling time for the shop, which is set to be demolished this year to make way for an incoming Bay Street development. Their lease officially expires August 2020.