A new independent bookstore (Book Palace) is planned to open in the former town of Chatham (Miramichi East), New Brunswick, in early 2026 to bring more local literature and events to the downtown Water Street waterfront. The shop aims to provide a dedicated space for new books and community gatherings, filling a role that has been vacant in the neighbourhood for several years.
The business will be located in the Historic Water Street Business District, which is seeing renewed activity through local revitalization projects. This includes the Chatham Public Library’s temporary relocation to Water Street — the city approved a lease for space at 1780 Water St (the former Tim Hortons/Café Escapade) for the library’s interim site — a move that contributes to the potential for a literary hub on Water Street.
Since the Miramichi area lost its only dedicated bookstore several years ago after a fire, residents seeking new releases have often turned to Mill Cove Coffee in downtown Newcastle or travelled out of town. The Miramichi Reader has noted the local need for a shop that focuses specifically on the latest titles and Atlantic Canadian authors; Mill Cove Coffee (owned by Kathleen and James Smith) has helped fill that gap by stocking new releases.
The new store is expected to host regular community events such as book clubs and author signings to support the local arts scene. Local writers already promote events through the City of Miramichi community calendar, and the planned shop would provide a dedicated storefront for authors to connect with neighbours.
