Madeline Bolen, founder of one of Victoria’s most-beloved bookstores has passed away unexpectedly yesterday.
Bolen opened her small bookstore in Hillside Shopping Centre in 1975. She expanded
Bolen Books and worked tirelessly to build it into a successful business.
Bolen expanded her bookstore four times before settling into its current 17,000-square foot space. She faced the looming chain and online stores and took a chance that her customers and community would support an independent bookstore — which they did and do.
Bolen Books has a book of condolences for customers and friends of its well-known founder to share memories and thoughts with family and staff.