With a population of just under 8.5 million people, New York offers a library for every taste, from historic landmarks to niche inventories. These are the top NYC libraries to add to your list.

Morgan Library & Museum

The Morgan Library & Museum, the former library of famed banker J.P. Morgan, contains an outstanding selection of historical manuscripts, early printed books, and other significant works. Constructed between 1902 and 1906, it was constructed within a Renaissance-era palazzo, with three rooms covered with frescoes, imposing bookcases, and prized written materials on display.

This being a cross between a research library and a museum means that you’ll need to buy entry tickets to access the facility. At the time of writing this article, the passes are priced at $25, but visitors are allowed to enter the café and shop for free.

Address: 225 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016, United States
Opening hours:
– Monday: Closed
– Tuesday to Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday: 10:30AM – 5PM
– Friday: 10:30AM – 8PM

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Jefferson Market Library

Back in the day, the Jefferson Market Library was just a courthouse in Greenwich Village, but nowadays, it’s one of New York’s most popular libraries. Following a unique Victorian Gothic style, it serves as both a literary gem and an architectural marvel with detailed arched brick spaces, stained glass windows, and grand sculptures.

Jefferson Market Library’s collection is as varied as can be, with a few particular standouts that book lovers will appreciate. Some of these include rare texts covering New York City’s history and old images related to the Jefferson Market Library and the courthouse that was once here.

Address: 425 6th Ave, New York, NY 10011, United States
Opening hours:
– Monday to Thursday: 10AM – 8PM
– Friday and Saturday: 10AM – 5PM
– Sunday: 1PM – 5PM

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New York Public Library – Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

Out of all the New York Public Library’s areas, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is among the most impressive. Between the marvelous ceiling frescoes in the Rose Main Reading Room and the warm vintage feel you experience as soon as you enter the Vartan Gregorian Research Center, it’s a must for every bibliophile coming to NYC.

This location, situated beside Bryant Park, is celebrated for its historical written materials, with rows of bookcases holding endless rare texts, manuscripts, and some incredible works of art.

Address: 476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018, United States
Opening hours:
– Monday, Thursday to Saturday: 10AM – 6PM
– Tuesday and Wednesday: 10AM – 8PM
– Sunday: 1PM – 5PM

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Brooklyn Public Library – Brooklyn Heights Branch

Brooklyn Public Library’s Brooklyn Heights Branch has been a massive hit in the community ever since its opening in 2022. With selected meeting rooms, reading zones, and plenty of literature for visitors to enjoy, it’s no wonder it’s so popular.

Unlike a lot of libraries in NYC that have a historic element to them, the Brooklyn Heights Branch is quite the opposite. The space is flooded with light, featuring pristine white bookcases along the floor, while overhead lighting showcases the collections in contemporary fashion.

Address: 286 Cadman Plz W, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States
Opening hours:
– Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 10AM – 6PM
– Tuesday: 1PM – 8PM
– Thursday: 10AM – 8PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 5PM
– Sunday: 1PM – 5PM

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The New York Society Library

Known for being the city’s oldest library, the New York Society Library was established in 1754. For such a long-standing location, it has managed to retain the old-world charm of its days as a townhouse, with timeless decor, while incorporating modern additions, such as plush reading rooms.

Across the New York Society Library, you’ll be treated to a vast inventory of approximately 300,000 volumes. Pretty much every topic is covered here, including history, art, travel, fiction, social science, and some insightful reads regarding New York City.

Address: 53 E 79th St, New York, NY 10075, United States
Opening hours:
– Monday to Thursday: 9AM – 8PM
– Friday: 9AM – 5PM
– Saturday and Sunday: 11AM – 5PM

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Poets House

Everyone should swing by the Poets House on the Hudson River to go through its archive of roughly 70,000 poetry-related materials. Whether you want to get your hands on a book, journal, or something from a special collection, as long as it’s something to do with poetry, you’ll likely come across it at the Poets House.

This national poetry library has ensured that all of its offerings are either written in English or, if they’re in another language, they’ve been translated. While there are plenty of different poetry styles on display, they place a particular emphasis on contemporary American publications.

Address: 10 River Ter., New York, NY 10282, United States
Opening hours:
– Sunday and Monday: Closed
– Tuesday to Friday: 11AM – 7PM
– Saturday: 11AM – 6PM

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The Morbid Anatomy Library and Gift Shop

The Morbid Anatomy Library and Gift Shop is certainly a place that will attract a very particular type of reader. Its focus is on the study of mortality, exploring a topic that many people fear through literature, images, and art. Their goal is to help visitors understand the subject rather than be afraid of it, and what better way to do so than through a library?

As you delve deeper into the Morbid Anatomy Library’s holdings, you’ll encounter books on some very niche topics, such as sexology, anatomical art, and, of course, death and culture. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop as well; it’s full of quirky items, such as Mexican masks and tarot cards.

Address: 254 36th St 2nd floor, C248, Brooklyn, NY 11232, United States
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: Closed
– Saturday and Sunday:  12PM – 5PM

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Bloomingdale Library

A short stroll from Central Park, the Bloomingdale Library is a two-floor facility that serves the wider Manhattan area. On level one, visitors have a general reference collection, as well as a selection for lending on topics of interest to adults, such as the latest bestsellers. The second level has been laid out for younger people, with a catalogue of children’s books.

The Bloomingdale Library has a traditional community atmosphere, attracting many locals to its spacious building, with low bookcases and plenty of seating for reading and studying.

Address: 150 W 100th St, New York, NY 10025, United States
Opening hours:
– Monday and Tuesday: 10AM – 7PM
– Wednesday and Thursday: 11AM – 7PM
– Friday and Saturday: 10AM – 5PM
– Sunday: Closed

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New York Public Library for the Performing Arts

The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts is a specialty library tucked away on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Much of the material is centered around theater, music, and film, earning itself a considerable reputation as one of the NYPL’s most respected research institutions.

Across the NYPL for the Performing Arts complex, there are numerous interesting areas, including the Harvey Fierstein Theater Lab, a space designed for theater makers and artists. It was set up to teach people curious about the industry while providing them with a workspace to improve their creative projects.

Address: 40 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, United States
Opening hours:
– Monday and Thursday: 10:30AM – 8PM
– Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday: 10:30AM – 6PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

If you happen to be in Harlem, be sure to set aside some time to visit the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. An inspiring library dedicated to literature connected to African American and African Diaspora experiences, it boasts an extensive array of over 11 million works for visitors to browse.

Besides written texts, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture plays host to many exhibitions. Currently, they’re showcasing the ‘100: A Century of Collections, Community, and Creativity,’ which takes people through the legacy of the library’s holdings.

Address: 515 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10037, United States
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10AM – 5:45PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Webster Library (NYPL)

Another one of New York’s historical libraries is the Webster Library, which has a legacy dating back to 1893. Bearing the name of Charles B. Webster, who gifted the original building, the library was hugely popular with Czech immigrants for some time, but now caters to people of all backgrounds in the city.

Spanning three floors, the Webster Library has a few different sections of curated works for people of all ages, including adults, children, and teenagers, so no matter how old you are, there’s something here for you.

Address: 1465 York Ave, New York, NY 10075, United States
Opening hours:
– Monday to Thursday: 11AM – 7PM
– Friday and Saturday: 10AM – 5PM
– Sunday: Closed

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New York Academy of Medicine Library

Housing one of the world’s most significant medical libraries, the New York Academy of Medicine Library highlights materials that reveal how historical techniques and modern advancements have merged to form today’s medical knowledge.

Since opening its doors in 1878, the New York Academy of Medicine Library has shifted its focus to medical history, steadily building a huge repository of books that now occupy its shelves.

Address: 1216 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029, United States
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9AM – 5PM
– Saturday and Sunday: Closed

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The Last Bookstore

Welcome to The Last Bookstore, California’s largest new and used book and record store, ranked the tenth most beautiful bookstore by the 1000 Libraries community. It has four locations, but its flagship is located in downtown Los Angeles. It’s housed in a former bank and is Instagram famous for its whimsical book tunnel and massive marble pillars.

It offers over 500,000 books and a hefty collection of vinyl records. The labyrinthine space features a nice helping of hidden nooks, regularly hosting various author events.

Address: 453 S Spring St Ground Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 11AM – 8PM

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Stories Books & Cafe

This independent bookstore makes its mark with its distinctive, haunted-house-esque choice of framed paintings and the offbeat wall mural of its outdoor café.

On the literary side of things, it offers a wide array of books, from classics to new releases. Meanwhile, the café brews up a mean cup of coffee alongside tasty pastries and free Wi-Fi. It also regularly hosts readings, book releases, and fun activities like drawing or comedy nights.

Address: 1716 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Opening hours:
– Sunday to Friday: 9AM – 9PM
– Saturday: 9AM – 10PM

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Skylight Books

Founded in 1996, Skylight Books is known for its welcoming atmosphere, ficus tree centerpiece, and curated selections. It specializes in literary fiction, Los Angeles history, arts, and esoteric subjects, hosting frequent author events and supporting local writers.

It’s a beautiful space, from its uniquely modern take on a barrel vaulted ceiling crosshatched with wooden beams to the zigzagging lines that make its storefront exterior pop.

Address: 1818 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 10PM

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Barnes & Noble (The Grove)

For many, Barnes & Noble is a comforting and nostalgic bookstore chain, and this particular branch adds a bit of flair with a grand, sweeping entryway showing off three levels of a beautiful and elegant bookshop design.

As might be expected of a Barnes & Noble, you can find a wide selection of books, magazines, gifts, and children’s toys, plus a Starbucks-sponsored in-house café. The location itself is extremely popular for its regular events and seasonal displays, so it’s definitely a must-visit if you’re in the area.

Address: 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 10PM

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Duranno Bookstore

In a city often celebrated for its diversity of culture and lifestyles, you might be surprised to hear that it has a popular Korean Christian bookstore. Duranno Bookstore was established in 1986, focusing its stock on Christian books, Bibles, devotionals, and church supplies in both Korean and English. It also carries a nice selection of gifts, stationery, and Sunday school materials.

Its interior is stylish without being extravagant, creating a peaceful atmosphere with a simple, organized layout interspersed with house plants and multilingual decorative elements.

Address: 3130 Wilshire Blvd #100, Los Angeles, CA 90010
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9:30AM – 5PM
– Saturday & Sunday: Closed

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The Iliad Bookshop

With over 150,000 books specializing in literature and the arts, the Iliad Bookshop has been rocking the used bookstore scene in Los Angeles since 1987. It’s probably most famous for its creative book displays. And when we say “book displays,” we mean the massive book spines jutting out from the storefront’s walls alongside gorgeously intricate Greek-inspired murals.

Really, with as eye-popping as it is, it’s little wonder this bookshop makes so many appearances in film and TV productions.

Address: 5400 Cahuenga Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91601
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Saturday: 11AM – 7PM
– Monday & Sunday: Closed

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The Book Jewel

For an intimate and cozy atmosphere, look no further than the Book Jewel. This shop is filled with plush seating areas, warm wooden floors and shelves, and even a grand fireplace (though not lit—book safety first!).

To make things even cozier, this shop has a resident cat. Alongside its broad collection of books of all genres and subjects, you can find a nice section with candles and merchandise, including shirts with the resident cat printed on them.

Address: 6259 W. 87th St, Los Angeles, CA 90045
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Thursday & Sunday: 10AM – 6PM
– Friday: 10AM – 7PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 8PM
– Monday: Closed

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The Artbook @ Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles Bookstore

Art lovers will definitely want to check out the Artbook @ Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles. Half bookshop and half art gallery, this former flour mill has since been converted into a cultural hub with a grunge vibe, specializing in contemporary and 20th-century art books. Some notable standouts in its collection are its rare catalogues, indie press books, and children’s books.

Spotlight displays change regularly to reflect current exhibitions and themes, and the store hosts events, signings, and talks by artists, curators, and critics.

Address: 917 East 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 11AM – 6PM
– Monday: Closed

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Chevalier’s Books

Opened in 1940, Chevalier’s Books is Los Angeles’s oldest independent bookstore. This place is a cornerstone of the neighborhood, bringing literary culture to life through engaging events, personalized recommendations, and a beloved children’s section.

It began as a lending library and expanded to a general bookstore, surviving changes in ownership and location but always remaining on Larchmont Boulevard. With a friendly atmosphere and lovingly decorated walls, it’s a great place to pick up a new read.

Address: 133 N Larchmont Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 6PM

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Small World Books

Established in 1969 and relocated to Venice Beach’s boardwalk in 1976, Small World Books is a cherished independent bookstore beloved for its eclectic selection, knowledgeable staff, and true neighborhood spirit. Its book collection includes literary fiction, poetry, history, philosophy, and children’s books, and is big on supporting small presses.

Like a couple of other spots on this list, this bookstore has some live-in cats that add a touch of coziness to the simple but welcoming decor. It’s also connected to a café next door for anyone who wants to take a quick reading break on their travels.

Address: 1407 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 8PM

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Sideshow Books

Got the collector’s itch? You might just be able to satisfy it at Sideshow Books, an offbeat shop specializing in used and rare books. Its selection crams the shelves to the spilling point, with a little bit of everything but favoring alternative genres: pulp, art, cinema, music, beat literature, and even comics.

Visitors may be offered free espresso, and the cozy, overflowing store has a classic secondhand bookstore vibe, complete with offerings like records, vintage posters, and other trinkets.

Address: 1639 La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035
Opening hours:
– Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday: 12PM – 6PM
– Friday: 12PM – 5:30PM
– Monday: Closed

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Hennessey + Ingalls

Hennessey + Ingalls stands out as the largest art, architecture, and design bookstore on the West Coast, both in terms of the breadth of its collection and its physical space. This is the place to go to find titles on pretty much any visual art—from architecture and landscaping to photography and graphic design.

This place is a favorite of architects, designers, museums, collectors, students, and film professionals, as well as everyday readers, wrapped in a beautiful, modern space.

Address: 300 S Santa Fe Ave M, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 11AM – 7PM

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Secret Headquarters

This boutique comic book store is known for its warm, wood-paneled interior and curated selection of mainstream, indie, and small-press comics, zines, and graphic novels. This is where you go if you want the best of the lesser-known and underappreciated titles, including a bunch of featured local artists.

Once in a blue moon, Secret Headquarters hosts book launches for said local artists, but most of its focus is on promoting comic book culture in LA. It even buys comic books in good condition for those who have something to sell.

Address: 3137 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90039
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 11AM – 7PM

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Kinokuniya Bookstore LA

Though Kinokuniya Bookstore originally began in Japan, this bookstore chain now has locations all over the world—including in Los Angeles. Nowadays, it’s a crucial part of Little Tokyo’s Weller Court Mall, beloved for its in-depth selection of Japanese and English books, manga, graphic novels, art titles, stationery, and Studio Ghibli goods.

As part of the Japanese Kinokuniya chain, its LA branch connects readers with Japanese pop culture, literature, and gifts, serving locals, tourists, and anime fans alike.

Address: 2F The Bloc, 700 W 7th St g, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 11AM – 8PM

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Lost Books, Plants & Vinyl

As an added bonus, though not technically in LA, you can get lost in a jungle of books at Lost Books, Plants & Vinyl. It’s exactly what it sounds like from its name: a whimsical independent bookstore filled with lush plant life, an expertly curated vinyl selection, and an abundance of new and used books.

Known for its mossy ceiling, sunlit nooks, and living plant tunnel, this shop offers a dreamy atmosphere and a quiet retreat from the bustle of the city. It also offers an array of tropical plants for sale.

Address: 1F Montrose Plaza Executive Office, 2233 Honolulu Ave, Montrose, CA 91020
Opening hours:
– Monday to Thursday: 10AM – 6PM
– Friday & Saturday: 10AM – 9PM
– Sunday: 10AM – 7PM

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The Abbey Bookshop

In Paris’ Latin Quarter stands the Abbey Bookshop, founded by a Canadian immigrant in 1989 and specializing in English-language books. Overflowing with over 40,000 new and used books, including many Canadian titles, its tightly packed shelves and narrow passages create a cave of wonders designed for bookaholics.

The shop is recognized for its eclectic, floor-to-ceiling selection, lively community events, and friendly ambiance.

Address: 29 Rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 7PM

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Librairie Galignani

Known as continental Europe’s first English-language bookstore, Librairie Galignani opened in 1801 and has been run by the Galignani family since its founding. Its roots are even older than that, tracing back to a Venetian publishing house established in 1520.

Galignani features elegant wood shelves and well-organized collections in both English and French literature. Its shelves span across two levels, with a slender indoor balcony that makes access to the topmost volumes easy.

Address: 224 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10:30AM – 7:30PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Shakespeare and Company

Shakespeare and Company is a legendary English-language bookstore across from Notre-Dame and was voted the second most beautiful bookstore in the world by 200,000 people casting their caps into 1000Libraries’ polls.

Though no grand, sweeping structure, this bookstore is filled with beautiful stone flooring and aged wooden bookshelves. It has staff passionate about literature and a great selection of antiquarian volumes. Its café with outdoor terrace is also a great place to set and enjoy locally-sourced baked goods and coffee.

Address: 37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Wednesday: 10AM – 8PM
– Thursday to Saturday: 10AM – 9PM
– Sunday: 12PM – 7PM

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Librairie Jousseaume

One of Paris’ oldest bookstores, this bookstore has been situated in the elaborate Galerie Vivienne since 1826. It’s filled with antiquarian and secondhand books, postcards, prints, and other literary curiosities.

The interior is close and intimate, with wooden floors and warm lighting that create an atmosphere akin to a wizened philosopher’s study. That sense is only amplified by the owner, who knows the literature like the back of his hand and is happy to help book lovers in search of a well-loved volume.

Address: 45-46-47 Gal Vivienne, 75002 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 11AM – 7PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Librairie Delamain

Not too far from the Louvre, you can find Librairie Delamain, the oldest continuously operating bookshop in Paris. Founded over two centuries ago, it draws visitors with its charming striped awning, wood-paneled interior, and rich literary history.

Delamain’s collection contains around 25,000 new and older titles, mostly in French, including a tidy little section for rare and antiquarian books. It also hosts literary events such as author meet-and-greets, book launches, and debates.

Address: 155 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10AM – 8PM
– Sunday: 1PM – 7PM

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San-Francisco Book Co.

San-Francisco Book Co. was founded in 1997 by American expat Jim Carroll, selling English-language used books. It’s immediately recognizable by its fire-engine-red storefront (mentioned before in our Parisian book lover’s guide), and it’s filled to the brim with a well-curated selection of secondhand books in English.

Reviewers remark upon bargain prices and helpful service. Though the inside can be something of a maze, it’s perfect for stumbling upon the unexpected, whether a genre you’ve never tried or a subject you’ve never seen.

Address: 17 Rue Monsieur le Prince, 75006 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 8PM

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TASCHEN Paris

Run by an art book publisher, TASCHEN Paris has an interior both elegant and subtly stylish, with smooth, gently curved columns and a single, long room that says exactly what it needs to and no more. It reflects the bookstore’s careful dedication to all things art, showcasing books on photography, architecture, fashion, and more.

Though most of its collection is in French, it holds some English and German books as well. But even without that, a picture—and art in general—says a thousand words without needing any language at all.

Address: 2 Rue de Buci, 75006 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 11AM – 8PM

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Halle Saint-Pierre

This distinctive cultural center was voted third place by our readers for the most beautiful book cafés in the world, and a single glance inside will tell you why. Halle Saint-Pierre is housed in a striking 19th-century iron-and-glass ex-market hall. Dedicated to off-beat art (particularly art brut and outsider art), it features rotating exhibitions, a specialist bookshop, and a café.

The café side keeps things fresh with vegetarian pastries, while the art they specialize in will keep you on your toes. Just a quick note: the bookshop and center are free to visit, but the exhibitions do have an entry fee.

Address: 2 Rue Ronsard, 75018 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 11AM – 6PM
– Saturday: 11AM – 7PM
– Sunday: 12PM – 6PM

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Péniche L’Eau et les Rêves

Another hit on our most beautiful book cafés list, Péniche L’Eau et les Rêves, which translates roughly to “The Barge of Water and Dreams,” was voted into fourth place. As a floating bookshop and café, it’s also one of the most unique on the list.

Moored along the Canal de l’Ourcq, it specializes in books about nature, ecology, and travel, its wooden interior peppered with potted plants. It also offers a café with a great view, which also plays host to various author events and workshops throughout the year.

Address: 9 Quai de l’Oise, 75019 Paris, France
Opening hours:

Bookstore
– Wednesday to Sunday: 11AM – 7PM
– Monday & Tuesday: Closed

Café
– Wednesday to Sunday: 11AM – 7PM
– Sunday brunch: 11:30AM – 3PM (by reservation only)
– Monday & Tuesday: Closed

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Assouline Paris

Assouline Paris is the flagship boutique of the luxury publisher Assouline, known for producing books on art, travel, fashion, and design. As can be expected of an art-centric space, its interior stuns with vibrant red walls and art gallery-esque displays.

Inside, you can find elaborate art books, collector’s editions, and unique accessories, all designed to be both creative and visually appealing. Much of the design feels inspired by multiple cultures, giving an elevated, almost ethereal vibe to the place.

Address: 35 Rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10:30AM – 7:30PM
– Sunday: 1PM – 7PM

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Brentano’s

This American bookstore is over a hundred years old and was established as a branch of New York’s Brentano’s. Located on the ground floor of Hotel Edouard VII, this store keeps a wide range of English-language books, newspapers, and magazines, plus a neat assortment of stationery and gorgeous little gift items like figurines and photo frames.

This particular Brentano’s has stood the test of time, surviving wartime closure and various ownership changes, and is a popular draw for tourists and expatriots.

Address: 37 Av. de l’Opéra, 75002 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 9:30AM – 7PM
– Sunday: 10AM – 7PM

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Comme un Roman

Known for its welcoming staff and expert curation, Comme un Roman offers a wide selection of French literature, magazines, and children’s books, plus a modest assortment of English-language titles.

It’s no slacker in promoting literary culture, either, frequently hosting author signings and neighborhood events. Its interior is filled with subtle decorative touches that brighten the place and give it an elegant but not overwhelming atmosphere, one that readily welcomes new visitors and regulars alike.

Address: 39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Saturday: 10AM – 7:45PM
– Sunday: 10AM – 1:30PM
– Monday: Closed

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Artazart

Artazart is half bookstore, half art gallery, its white walls plastered with a wide range of art pieces while books are displayed on tables below. And no wonder: this is another bookshop that focuses its collection on the visual arts, especially graphic design, photography, and even graphic novels.

Founded in 2000, Artazart keeps local literary and art culture alive with regular events, from author signings to art exhibitions. The shop also features art-inspired gifts, paper goods, and a colorful children’s section.

Address: 83 Quai de Valmy, 75010 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10:30AM – 7:30PM
– Sunday: 11AM – 7:30PM

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Librairie du Passage

This antiquarian bookstore has long since found its home nestled within the elegant Passage Jouffroy. It makes a mark with its ever-changing storefront selection, sometimes displaying gorgeous, decades-old leather-bound volumes, and other times posters or art pieces.

Though most of the collection is in French, it’s still worth a visit just to breathe in the scent of old paper and leather or check out vintage prints. It’s a true treasure trove of secondhand gems; you’ll never know what you’ll find. It also buys and appraises old books for those looking to sell.

Address: 48 Pass. Jouffroy, 75009 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10:30AM – 7PM

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Les bouquinistes de la Seine

Les bouquinistes de la Seine, or “the booksellers of the Seine,” are Paris’s iconic open-air booksellers. They’ve been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1991 and can be found along both banks of the Seine River from Quai de la Tournelle to Quai Voltaire and Pont Marie to Quai du Louvre.

Booksellers have been peddling their wares along the Seine since the 1600s, and today are best known for their beautiful green color. Today, there are over 200 stalls selling antiquarian books, prints, and postcards.

Address: Les quais de la Seine, 75004 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: early morning to sunset
– (Note: as there are 200 booksellers, open/close times may vary.)

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We could spend all day listing them one by one, but this group of libraries in South America offers the most to book lovers in terms of beauty and literature.

Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading (Rio de Janeiro)

Come and witness the biggest collection of Portuguese written material outside the country at the Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading in Rio de Janeiro, crowned as the 8th most beautiful library in the world. Containing an estimated 350,000 volumes, as well as autograph manuscripts and letters from famed writers, die-hard readers will be in their element here.

Entry to the Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading is free, although we recommend paying the small fee to take one of the tours offered, as it’s well worth it to hear about the history. You’ll be taken past three magnificent tiers of shelving, all under a stained-glass dome that enchants every visitor.

Address: R. Luís de Camões, 30 – Centro, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20051-020, Brazil
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 5PM
– Saturday and Sunday: Closed

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Biblioteca Nacional do Brasil (Rio de Janeiro)

By Cinelândia Square in central Rio de Janeiro, you’ll find the biggest library in all of Latin America, Biblioteca Nacional do Brasil. Housing around nine million texts, including some rare books and manuscripts, visitors who are lucky enough to have the opportunity will be in awe of this place’s literary offerings.

The architecture of the Biblioteca Nacional do Brasil reflects the Greek Revival style with monumental staircases connecting multiple floors of bookcases. While finer details such as intricate wall paneling and fresh lighting tie the entire layout together, making it one of the most beautiful libraries in South America.

Address: Av. Rio Branco, 219 – Centro, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20040-008, Brazil
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 4:30PM
– Saturday and Sunday: Closed

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Victor Civita Latin American Library (São Paulo)

A standout among Brazil’s libraries is the Victor Civita Latin American Library in São Paulo. Belonging to the city’s Latin America Memorial, the collection here is focused on all content related to the continent, whether that be political texts or economic works.

Developed by Oscar Niemeyer, the Victor Civita Latin American Library has a crafty cylinder-shaped design with an airy interior where shelving floods the central area, along with a few tables that visitors can use for reading.

Address: Av. Mário de Andrade, 664 – Barra Funda, São Paulo – SP, 01156-001, Brazil
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 5PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 3PM
– Sunday: Closed

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San Francisco Monastery Library (Lima)

Lima’s San Francisco Monastery Library is a historic gem established by a group of Franciscan friars who brought with them an assortment of spiritual books they believed would aid local monks. Known as one of Lima’s most prominent landmarks, the complex is built in Baroque style, where more than 25,000 publications can be found beyond its walls.

Lined with open texts and winding staircases, the San Francisco Monastery Library invites visitors to climb to the upper floors to marvel at its extended inventory. Attention is brought to the central space by ambient lighting from above, with wooden elements and lavish tiling on full display for everyone to relish.

Address: XX3F+V59, Jr. Lampa, Lima 15001, Peru
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 9AM – 6PM

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National Library of Peru (Lima)

A tribute to the nation’s bookish heritage, the National Library of Peru in Lima attracts enthusiastic local and foreign readers to its location in the San Borja District. Set up in 1821, its inventory has grown to include an impressive number of periodicals, manuscripts, films, photographs, and more. One of its most prized possessions is the very first book ever printed on the continent, dating back to 1584.

The facility is divided into different sections that visitors can enjoy, including the library itself, as well as an exhibition hall, study room, and newspaper archive. At certain times of the year, the National Library of Peru also hosts several events. Women-led expos and presentations on the Candelaria Festival have all been featured in the past.

Address: Av. De La Poesía 160, San Borja 15034, Peru
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 8:30AM – 8PM
– Sunday: Closed

Legislative Library of Uruguay (Montevideo)

The Legislative Library of Uruguay in the capital Montevideo contains a wealth of written works related to legislation and parliamentary purposes, readily available for viewing for anyone interested. Serving as the link between parliament and the public, its holdings include 250,000 monographic works, 155,000 magazines, 700,000 newspapers from 1835 until now, and much more.

A multi-tiered library where intricate wooden details take center stage, the Legislative Library of Uruguay is undeniably a work of visual brilliance, guaranteed to leave any visitor in awe. The manner in which the high-reaching cabinets, brimming with timeworn volumes, intertwine with sculptures and freestanding wooden ladders creates an unforgettable sight to experience firsthand.

Address: 4R57+G35, Av. de las Leyes, 11800 Montevideo, Departamento de Montevideo, Uruguay
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 8AM – 8PM
– Saturday and Sunday: Closed

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National Library of Teachers (Buenos Aires)

Buenos Aires has many wonderful libraries, but none are quite like the National Library of Teachers. Holding a total of 220,000 items, you’ll come across endless books and magazines here, as well as an eclectic mix related to sciences and pedagogy, along with a children’s library.

Across the National Library of Teachers, you’re welcome to explore the reading room, which is centered around science and humanities with around 70,000 texts. The American Room is another notable stop, mainly for researchers, and is packed with certain inventories belonging to the likes of Mabel Manacorda de Rosetti. For those who are fans of rare texts, the Treasure Room contains a fascinating collection dating back to before 1810.

Address: Pje. Pizzurno 953, C1017 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9AM – 8PM
– Saturday: 9AM – 5PM

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Biblioteca Esteban Echeverría (Buenos Aires)

One of Buenos Aires’ best-kept secrets is the Biblioteca Esteban Echeverría. Situated inside the Legislative Palace, this structure was designed by the architect Héctor Ayerza, and the layout speaks for itself. From the ornate bronze chandeliers to rolling ladders, and not to forget the artwork by celebrated painters like Román Rivera, it’s a truly awe-inspiring library.

The literature within the Library of the City Legislature is predominantly oriented toward law, social sciences, history, and politics. This is comprised of newspapers, magazines, periodicals, and books that are visible upon entry.

Address: Perú 130, C1067AAD Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 6PM
– Saturday and Sunday: Closed

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Legado Mítico Buenos Aires

Seated in the fashionable Palermo Soho District is a boutique hotel called Legado Mítico. It’s relatively small, but each room is individualized to reflect notable Argentine figures, with elegant décor inspired by the country’s culture, art, literature, and history.

The hotel also has a library lounge with polished wooden floors, Persian rugs, and lots of comfortable armchairs and sofas. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a classic understated atmosphere.

Address: Gurruchaga 1848, C1414DIL Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 3PM
– Check-out time: 12PM

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El Ateneo Grand Splendid

El Ateneo Grand Splendid is considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world by National Geographic, the Guardian, and most recently, 1000 Libraries, where thousands of readers voted it into third place alongside other gorgeous bookshops.

Housed in an opulent former theater built a century ago, its classic architecture and frescoed dome are timelessly stunning. Though its English collection is modest, you can still enjoy a light meal at the café set center-stage (literally) or read from its 120,000-strong book collection in one of the theater box reading nooks.

Address: Av. Sta. Fe 1860, C1123 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 9AM – 9PM
– Sunday: 12PM – 9PM

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Clásica y Moderna

Founded in 1938 by Spanish émigré Francisco Poblet, Clásica y Moderna is a historic bookstore and restaurant. This hub has seen literary giants over the years, including figures like Jorge Luis Borges and Adolfo Bioy Casares.

The restaurant has brick walls that give it a bohemian vibe, while the crosshatch wooden flooring of the bookshop keeps things down-to-earth. It has a broad collection of titles to choose from, and the restaurant regularly hosts live shows that keep the place popping.

Address: Av. Callao 892, C1023 AAO, Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 7:30AM – 12AM
– Sunday: Closed

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National Library of Teachers (Biblioteca Nacional de Maestros)

You think a century might be a lot of history, but this library will take that and raise you half. Established in 1870 by reforms to support education in Argentina, the National Library of Teachers specializes in educational sciences, holding over 130,000 volumes related to humanities, social sciences, education, and Argentine history.

The library’s architecture is absolutely jaw-dropping, with high, vaulted ceilings and elaborate copper-green columns.

Address: Pje. Pizzurno 953, C1017 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9AM – 8PM
– Saturday: 9AM – 5PM
– Sunday: Closed

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La Revistería Comics & Coffee

Try a change of pace at La Revistería Comics & Coffee, a comic bookstore and café known for its extensive collection of comics, graphic novels, manga, and merchandise that the fans will love. That’s not to say it doesn’t have other books; in fact, it has a pretty impressive selection ranging from philosophy to engineering, plus a nice variety of games.

In 2019, this comic shop won the Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailer Award. Impressive collection aside, the interior pops with color and even offers a decent menu of drinks, making it a cool place to soak up the vibe.

Address: Florida 719, C1053 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Thursday: 9:30AM – 8PM
– Friday & Saturday: 9:30AM – 9PM
– Sunday: 12PM – 8PM

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Biblioteca Esteban Echeverría

Located inside the Palacio de la Legislatura, Biblioteca Esteban Echeverría is a public and legislative library that has been around since 1923. It serves the city’s parliamentary work and the public with a collection of around 40,000 items—that includes books, magazines, photos, and musical scores—all focused on Buenos Aires history, law, and culture.

You also get a neat combo of cultures in the design, with French Renaissance architecture, Italian walnut paneling, ornate chandeliers, and historic artworks.

Address: Perú 130, C1067AAD Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 6PM
– Saturday & Sunday: Closed

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Librería de Ávila

If you want a real piece of history, try this one on for size: Librería de Ávila, Argentina’s oldest bookstore and one of the oldest in both North and South America. Founded in 1785, it was declared a cultural heritage site for the role it played in the city’s revolutionary history.

Nowadays, it specializes in rare, antique, and out-of-print books, offering literary treasures across two floors. Its architecture is distinctive but subtle, with elegantly curved staircases and a circular, interior balcony.

Address: Adolfo Alsina 500, C1087AAF Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9AM – 7PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 3PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Caburé Libros

Caburé Libros is both an independent bookstore and a publisher, hosting a coffee shop and a ton of ambition. Located in Buenos Aires’ San Telmo neighborhood, it has a carefully curated selection of books (primarily in Spanish), emphasizing Latin American literature, poetry, and prose.

The bookstore makes use of its open flooring to hold various literary events such as book launches and presentations.

Address: México 620, C1097 AAN, Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 6PM
– Saturday & Sunday: Closed

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Walrus Books

While most of the bookshops on this list are packed with Spanish titles, Walrus Books focuses on English-language books, both new and used. It has around 4,000 titles on its shelves of both fiction and non-fiction. You can expect to find everything here, from art books and literature to some handy-dandy reference texts.

The shop encourages book trading and offers discounts for used books brought in by customers, making it budget-friendly as well.

Address: Estados Unidos 617, C1101AAM Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 12PM – 7PM
– Monday: Closed

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Biblioteca del Congreso Argentina

The Biblioteca del Congreso de la Nación Argentina, or Argentina’s National Library of Congress, holds over 3.5 million books, documents, and archives. Though its original purpose when it was established in the mid-19th century was to support lawmakers and their work, it evolved into a public institution with extensive reading rooms open to all.

Some of the more notable parts of the library’s collection include rare manuscripts and legal texts. For the community, it hosts regular programs and events, from family reading activities to architectural exhibitions.

Address: Av. Hipólito Yrigoyen 1750, C1089 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 8AM – 11PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 10AM – 8PM
– (Note: Some reading rooms may have different opening hours.)

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Biblioteca Nacional Mariano Moreno

Named after the revolutionary leader Mariano Moreno, the Biblioteca Nacional Mariano Moreno was founded in 1810 amid the May Revolution. Currently, it’s housed in a stark, brutalist building built in 1992 with some eye-catching, gravity-defying architecture resembling a cubic concrete mushroom.

The library holds nearly a million manuscripts, books, maps, and recordings, including some invaluable texts from the 15th to 17th centuries.

Address: Agüero 2502, C1425 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9AM – 9PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 12PM – 7PM

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Dain Usina Cultural

What do you get when you put a bookstore, café, and gallery together? In Buenos Aires, you get Dain Usina Cultural. Known for its postmodern stylings and all-in art displays, this is a great place to visit whether you’re in the mood for books, art, or just a cup of coffee.

It has a diverse book collection, including literature, history, science, and travel topics, and its terrace has a nice, relaxed vibe. The café also offers free Wi-Fi to visitors.

Address: Nicaragua 4899, C1414BVK Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 12PM – 8PM
– Saturday: 2PM – 8PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Libros del Pasaje

With rows of dark shelving and a bar/café with a book-filled loft, Libros del Pasaje makes for a charming independent bookstore and café. Lining the walls, you can expect to find books on anything from Eastern philosophy to Argentine literature, almost all in Spanish, with a few curated choices in other languages like English.

The café side offers comfortable, stylish seating, plus a menu of coffee, tea, and desserts, making it ideal for readers and digital nomads alike. It also hosts events like author talks and book discussions.

Address: Thames 1762, C1409 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 7:30PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 8PM
– Sunday: 2PM – 8PM

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Eterna Cadencia

For the perfect mix of beauty and elegance, make your way to Eterna Cadencia. Once a classical mansion, it was founded in 2008 and has since made waves as a bookstore and café. It was also voted the seventh most beautiful bookstore in the world by 1000 Libraries’ readers.

The bookstore opens up with hardwood floors and dark shelves, with both extravagant decorations like the chandelier and the painted walls in one of the sitting rooms, plus subtle touches like the image of a compass rose in the floor.

Address: Honduras 5582, C1414BTM Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9AM – 9PM
– Saturday: 12PM – 8PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Elocuente Café y Libros

While some book cafés lean heavily on the book side of things, Elocuente Café y Libros is more like a coffee shop that sells books, with some literary flair added in. It often shows off book-themed decorations, and one of its features is a literary box filled with coffee beans, a cookie, a bookmark, and a book.

Customers enjoy the hip, laid-back atmosphere and delicious range of desserts and snacks. It’s a nice place to sit back and chill.

Address: Bonpland 1549, C1414 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 9AM – 8PM
– Monday: Closed

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Naesqui Libros y Café

This bookstore and café offers a nice pop of color while you nibble on pastries or sip your coffee. Its dark wooden shelving set against vivid blue walls, adjacent to white painted with bold black art creates an aesthetically pleasing contrast.

It offers a nice selection of Spanish-language books, even occasionally hosting book presentations, workshops, and more on the first floor. (The pastries and cakes in the second-floor café are also apparently amazing.)

Address: 14 de Julio, Charlone y, C1427 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina

Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Friday: 9AM – 7PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 10AM – 8PM
– Monday: Closed

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Medio Pan y un Libro Café

Medio Pan y un Libro translates to “Half a loaf and a book,” and is a famous part of Federico García Lorca’s manifesto, saying that books and nurturing the mind are just as important as basic survival needs like food. So, really, it’s even more perfect that you can get both half a loaf (or sandwich or dessert) along with a book at this book café.

Though it’s a fairly new spot, founded online in 2018 and opening a physical shop in 2019, it’s a popular hub where people can gather to find titles on social sciences, feminism, Argentine and Latin American literature, and art.

Address: Virrey Avilés 3686, C1427 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 8:30AM – 8PM
– Saturday: 9AM – 8PM
– Sunday: 9AM – 7PM

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Atlántica Libros y Café

Last but not least, you can wrap up your book lover’s adventure in Buenos Aires with a visit to a book café, Atlántica Libros y Café. This bookstore and café is flooded with Spanish books of every genre you can think of, both fiction and nonfiction, and has a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The café side is very conscientious, offering vegan and gluten-free options alongside coffees, cappuccinos, and teas.

Address: Av. Directorio 115, C1424 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Friday: 10AM – 8PM
– Saturday: 2PM – 8PM
– Monday & Sunday: Closed
– (Note: as of this writing, the café is temporarily closed for renovations, but the bookstore is still open and doing business)

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Dujiangyan Zhongshuge

Nowhere do crafty architectural elements and fine literature come together better than at Dujiangyan Zhongshuge. Ranked sixth among the most beautiful bookstores in the world, this gem on the outskirts of Chengdu captivates bibliophiles with its unique swirling layout, which replicates the region’s traditional irrigation system.

You won’t be able to help but pull out your camera for a snap at every corner you turn when visiting Dujiangyan Zhongshuge. With black-tiled floors and mirrored ceilings, it’s a sensory overload. There are also plenty of areas for reading onsite, as well as a café where you can enjoy drinks with your book.

Address: China, Sichuan, Chengdu, Dujiangyan City, Yulei Rd, 玉玺路51 邮政编码: 611830
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10:00AM – 09:00PM

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Zhongshuge Shenzhen

Sticking with Zhongshuge, we’re now moving to the Shenzhen branch, which also impresses with its design. The standout feature is, of course, the massive curved bookcase that winds right through the center of the store, resembling a snake.

Spread across two floors, the shop has various designated areas for different purposes. You’ll find everything from a kids’ reading space to a communal area where readers can come together. Books of all kinds are sold here, including comics, bestsellers, and plenty of other surprises.

Address: Qianhai OCT, Shenzhen, China
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10:00AM – 10:00PM

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Huai’an Zhongshuge

If you happen to be in Huai’an and the bustle of the city becomes a little too much, Huai’an Zhongshuge is the ultimate literary escape with a creative twist. The store’s central area is designed with cosmic shapes, creating a crafty illusion reminiscent of a rollercoaster at a theme park.

Many of the twisting structures that make up the layout also hold a world of texts that you can pick up and read, shaped like planets in all sizes, sure to enchant every book lover.

Address: Huaian Guolian Sunac Ins Park F3, 99 Yan’an East Road, Qingjiangpu District, Huai’an City, Jiangsu Province, China
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 9:30AM – 9PM

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Tianjin Zhongshuge

Any roundup of China’s bookstores must include Tianjin’s Zhongshuge. Keeping with the innovative theme for which Zhongshuge is known, this location draws attention by incorporating Italian elements into its floor plan, where neoclassical touches blend with Oriental aesthetics.

Tianjin Zhongshuge immediately impresses with its wooden spiral staircase, which sits in the background as chambers of books line both sides of the walls, creating an almost dungeon-like atmosphere that holds countless literary secrets.

Address: No. 39 Minzu Road, Italian-Style District, Tianjin, China
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 10PM

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Hangzhou Zhongshuge

Hidden within the Star Avenue shopping complex in Hangzhou, this Zhongshuge store offers visitors a fully immersive experience. With mirrors at the top and glowing modern corridors, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported fifty years into the future.

What truly sets Hangzhou Zhongshuge apart is that it moves you through two worlds at once. One area features towering wooden floor-to-ceiling shelves, evoking the charm of a traditional bookstore. The other has a futuristic feel to it, flooded with bright light as if you’ve entered another planet.

Address: China, CN 浙江省 杭州市 滨江区 江南大道 228 228号星光国际广场4-213 邮政编码: 311200
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 10PM

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Beijing Zhongshuge

Zhongshuge is a new player in Beijing’s bookish scene, yet since opening, it has amazed readers from the start with reflective ceilings that bring its creative details to life. Arches are strategically placed to guide visitors through the space, with openings integrated into the bookcases, sparking curiosity at every turn.

Spanning 1,100 square meters, this Chinese-themed facility has a children’s area and a café, with over 50,000 books for readers to enjoy.

Address: B1 Floor of Galeries Lafayette, 110 Xidan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 10PM

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Pioneer (Avant-Garde) Bookstore

Pioneer (Avant-Garde) Bookstore in China’s Zhejiang province would have you thinking you’re inside a traditional Chinese teahouse. Its bookshelves span multiple floors, while expansive open windows offer breathtaking views of the surrounding lush mountains.

Minimalism takes center stage, making it clear that the focus is on reading in a quiet, undisturbed space. Much of the seating is on the floor, with small circular spots for visitors to sit. Meanwhile, the concrete steps beside the windows provide unmatched vistas to enhance the reading experience.

Address: CFXJ+GJ2 Songyang County, Lishui, Zhejiang, China
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 9AM – 5PM

Mianhua Tiankeng Bookstore

Traditional bookstores are fun, but have you ever visited one built into the edge of a cliff? At Mianhua Tiankeng Bookstore in Luocheng, you can. As you descend into a sinkhole, you’ll find books lining the walls of the cave, while a staircase suspends you high above the ground.

Due to the narrow staircase, Mianhua Tiankeng Bookstore can get crowded, particularly on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly. If you can, come after dark, when the entire complex of shelves is lit up, creating a stunning visual spectacle.

Address: Mianhua Sinkhole, Luocheng Mulao Autonomous County, Guanxi, China
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday – 8AM – 6PM

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Mofan Bookstore

A former Chinese Anglican Church, Mofan Bookstore has been converted into a space where visitors can browse and buy books. Unlike many modern shops in Beijing, it has retained some of its original features, like arched ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and stained-glass windows reminiscent of an active church.

Mofan also serves up a wide range of literature, featuring books on a range of topics, including art, history, and social science.

Address: No. 85 Tonglinge Road, Xicheng District 西城区佟麟阁路85号
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 7:30PM

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Wangfujing Xinhua Bookstore

A highly regarded name in Beijing and across China, Wangfujing Xinhua Bookstore delivers a stellar lineup of just under 200,000 covers. This shop caters to every interest, offering books on economics, politics, education, and beyond. Besides written material, you’ll also find plenty of DVDs and VCDs.

Wangfujing Xinhua Bookstore showcases a fusion of classic and modern details, with wooden accents complementing sleek, well-lit architectural characteristics.

Address: No.218 Wangfujing Main Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100005 China
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 9AM – 9:30PM

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Page One

The Page One concept shop in Beijing has a wealth of Chinese and foreign language books in its location at the APM Mall. A multi-story shop designed with more than just reading in mind, it’s about the full experience here, merging coffee with cultural activities to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Understandably, bookworms will care more about what’s on the shelves than about everything else, and are you guys in for a treat. Think classical literature, foreign texts, and some written materials on social science, all under one roof.

Address: 19 Sanlitun Rd, Sanlitun, Chaoyang, Beijing, China, 100600
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 10PM

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Sinan Bookstore

Discover the finest poetry in all of Shanghai at Sinan Bookstore. Set inside the St. Nicolas Orthodox Church, you’ll be treated to a diverse catalogue of Chinese poetry, but there’s also a good chunk of English-language books here, too, ensuring tourists are also accommodated.

The exterior still retains the charm of a traditional church. At the same time, bold, forward-thinking decor can be seen inside, featuring a vaulted ceiling and bookcases cascading down the walls, which display an impressive collection of books.

Address: 517 Fuxing Rd (M), Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200025
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 9PM

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San Lian Tao Fen Bookshop

If you’re the type who reads late into the night, San Lian Tao Fen Bookshop has you covered. Every day of the week, their Beijing branch is open 24 hours, with around 60,000 books ready for you to flip through at any time.

What makes it even more interesting here is the mix of spaces. While there’s plenty of reading areas, there’s also a listening area, where you can enjoy vinyl records out loud.

Address: China, 对面 West Gate, CN 北京市 朝阳区 北三里屯 33大厦 邮政编码: 100600
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 24/7

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Shanghai Bookstore

The sprawling, beautifully lit wooden bookcases of the Shanghai Bookstore never fail to impress. Neither does its fantastic lineup of Chinese and foreign texts, covering multiple genres such as business management, technology, agriculture, and fine arts, with some rare books thrown in as well.

Every section across the Shanghai Bookstore is well signposted in both English and Chinese, so you don’t have to worry about language barriers when communicating with staff. There’s also a directory showing you which books are on which floor, helping you save time.

Address: 465 Fuzhou Rd, Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200127
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 9:30AM – 9PM

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Duoyun Books (朵云书院)

A shrine to literature high above the Shanghai skyline, Duoyun Books sits on the 52nd floor of the Shanghai Tower, overlooking the entire city. As you step out of the elevator, you’re greeted with a stunning panorama, but don’t get too distracted, as there’s a massive number of books in both Chinese and English waiting for you.

This Duoyun Books flagship store also boasts a cutting-edge floor plan with refined aesthetics, including curved passageways that open into a space flooded with natural light. Lush greenery rests atop tables, while expansive windows make you feel as if you’re reading above the clouds.

Address: 52nd Floor, Shanghai Tower, 501 Yinchengzhong Lu, near Lujiazuihuan Lu
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 9PM

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Yanjiyou Bookstore

Yanjiyou Bookstore in Beijing’s Dongcheng District blends lofty design with a wooden interior that’s sure to catch your eye. The first floor is all about art and Beijing-related literature, while elsewhere, you’ll find shelves of humanities and children’s books.

The lower ceilings give the place a cozy, intimate vibe, best enjoyed with a warm drink as you lose yourself among the shelves.

Address: F1 WF Central, 269 Wangfujing Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 10PM

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Biblioteca de Catalunya

Set in the old Hospital de la Santa Creu, the Biblioteca de Catalunya’s collection of almost 4 million materials is enough to get any bibliophile excited. Here, you can explore plenty of covers, maps, manuscripts, and periodicals, many of which are focused on Catalonia.

Biblioteca de Catalunya’s appeal also lies in its building, which is draped in Gothic features, including dramatic arches that frame the structure. Additionally, the surrounding gardens invite you to take a peaceful stroll after a reading session.

Address: Carrer de l’Hospital, 56, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9AM – 8PM
– Saturday: 9AM – 2PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Biblioteca Pública Arús

Initially set up in 1895 to provide a space for the working class to receive an education, the Biblioteca Pública Arús houses more than 80,000 volumes. Much of the collection focuses on topics such as social movements, anarchism, and freemasonry. Visitors can also access a range of additional materials, including manuscripts and other relevant documents.

Its layout is striking, with two levels of bookcases encircling the room, and a central casket of written pieces topped by a globe.

Address: Pg. de St. Joan, 26, L’Eixample, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 11AM – 3PM
– Saturday and Sunday: Closed

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Biblioteca Gabriel García Márquez

A prime stop for literary fans in the district of Sant Martí de Provençals, it’s no wonder Biblioteca Gabriel García Márquez won the Best New Public Library of 2023 award. Between its innovative design and the incredible lineup of Latin American-focused architecture, it’s a delight to experience.

Throughout the multi-level facility, you’ll encounter all sorts of quirky elements that make you want to stick around and settle in with a book, such as hammocks and swinging chairs.

Address: Plaça Carmen Balcells Segalà, 1, 08020 Barcelona, Spain
Opening hours:
– Monday and Wednesday: 9:30AM – 1:30PM and 3:30PM – 8:30PM
– Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday: 9:30AM – 8:30PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 2PM and 4AM – 8PM
– Sunday: 10AM – 2PM

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Montserrat Abelló Public Library

Having only recently opened to the public in 2018, the Montserrat Abelló Public Library was named in honor of the well-known poet Montserrat Abelló. It offers a diverse inventory, with many past visitors praising its stock of comics, manga, and graphic novels.

Wooden bookcases line the open interior, while overhead windows flood the space with natural light, creating a welcoming ambiance for users.

Address: Carrer dels Comtes de Bell-Lloc, 192, 200, Les Corts, 08014 Barcelona, Spain
Opening hours:
– Monday, Thursday, and Friday: 9:30AM – 1:30PM and 3:30PM – 8:30PM
– Tuesday and Wednesday: 9:30AM – 8:30PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 2PM and 4PM – 8PM

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Sant Pau – Santa Creu Public Library

Placed in the famed Hospital de Sant Pau, if the Santa Creu Public Library’s unique assortment of titles on Arab culture doesn’t excite you, its beautiful brick-walled building certainly will. Popular with both students and readers alike, visitors can enjoy free entry without needing to book in advance.

Another Gothic masterpiece, the interior is incredible. The way the vaulted brick ceilings and ribbed arches soar overhead while modern shelves fill the room creates a contrast that’s a delight to witness.

Address: Carrer del Carme, 47, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
Opening hours:
– Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 3PM – 8PM
– Tuesday and Thursday: 9:30AM – 1:30PM and 3PM – 8PM
– Saturday and Sunday: Closed

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Biblioteca Vapor Vell

Elements of the old Vapor Vell factory still live on through one of Barcelona’s most sought-after libraries, Biblioteca Vapor Vell. In the heart of the Sants district, the city council opened this library back in 2000, returning it to its former glory with a literary twist.

Although English-language materials are limited, you can still find some if you’re willing to look around; however, it’s best to ask a staff member for assistance. In addition to its extensive literary holdings, the library also has a children’s area and a study room.

Address: Passatge del Vapor Vell, 1, Distrito de Sants-Montjuïc, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
Opening hours:
– Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday: 9:30AM – 1:30PM and 3:30PM – 8:30PM
– Tuesday and Friday: 9:30AM – 8:30PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 2PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Biblioteca Camp de l’Arpa – Caterina Albert

Adding to Barcelona’s list of libraries housed in repurposed industrial spaces, Biblioteca Camp de l’Arpa – Caterina Albert occupies the former Alchemika plastics factory. Its design balances the building’s inventive past with sleek white interiors and dynamic architectural details.

The library’s curated works echo the structure’s historic creative spirit, with a strong focus on handicrafts and a diverse range of international literature.

Address: Carrer de la Indústria, 295, Sant Martí, 08041 Barcelona, Spain
Opening hours:
– Monday and Wednesday: 3:30PM – 8PM
– Tuesday and Thursday: 9:30AM – 1:30PM and 3:30PM – 8PM
– Friday to Sunday: Closed

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Biblioteca El Carmel – Juan Marsé

If you’re into novels, swing by Biblioteca El Carmel – Juan Marsé, where the list of narrative works is never-ending. From pieces dating back to the 20th century to fictional stories released in our time, anyone who enjoys a good tale will be in their element here.

On the grounds, there’s also a cafeteria that serves coffee and other hot drinks, which you can take upstairs to the terrace to soak up the views while chatting with other librarygoers.

Address: Carrer de la Murtra, 135, 145, Horta-Guinardó, 08032 Barcelona, Spain
Opening hours:
– Monday to Thursday: 9:30AM – 1:30 PM and 3:30PM – 8PM
– Friday to Sunday: Closed

Biblioteca Joan Miró

Occupying a part of Parc Joan Miró, the Biblioteca Joan Miró takes its name from the famous artist, Joan Miró. Inside, you’ll find wooden tables and thoughtfully arranged shelves for easy browsing, plus cylindrical hanging lights that give the space an inviting glow.

It’s not a huge library, but the book selection is exceptional, especially if you’re into comics. There’s also a reading corner, a study area, and a kids’ section all under one roof.

Address: Carrer de Vilamarí, 61, L’Eixample, 08015 Barcelona, Spain
Opening hours:
– Monday: 3:30PM – 8PM
– Tuesday to Thursday: 9:30AM – 1:30PM and 3:30PM – 8PM
– Friday to Sunday: Closed

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St Gervasi- Joan Maragall Library

Located in the Sarrià-Sant Gervasi area, the St. Gervasi–Joan Maragall Library is devoted to all things literary. The archive encompasses materials related to the written word, from texts on the history of books to works about reading in general.

One thing that makes St. Gervasi–Joan Maragall Library visually appealing is that it’s delightfully unconventional, with its exposed shelving, bright lighting, minimalist white tones, and sleek, modern brick accents.

Address: Carrer de Sant Gervasi de Cassoles, 85, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, 08022 Barcelona, Spain
Opening hours:
– Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 9:30AM – 1:30PM and 3:30PM – 8:30PM
– Tuesday and Thursday: 9:30AM – 8:30PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 2PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Biblioteca Francesca Bonnemaison

Biblioteca Francesca Bonnemaison, found on Carrer de Sant Pere Més Baix, is renowned for its extensive gallery of feminist writings. The premises also have a rich past, dating back to the 16th or 17th century, with some standout characteristics, including an intricate stone façade and ornate wrought-iron balconies.

Much of the library’s specialization focuses on women, including books by female authors, works about notable women in history, and materials devoted to women’s experiences.

Address: Carrer de Sant Pere Més Baix, 7, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Opening hours:
– Monday and Thursday: 3PM – 8PM
– Tuesday and Friday: 9:30AM – 1:30PM and 3PM – 8PM
– Wednesday: 9:30AM – 8PM
– Saturday and Sunday: Closed

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CRAI Biblioteca de Fons Antic Universitat de Barcelona UB

CRAI Biblioteca de Fons Antic at the University of Barcelona (UB) is bound to stay with you long after you’ve left. Its wealth of antique books is truly remarkable, complemented by a variety of other rare materials such as manuscripts, engravings, and unique historical documents that make it stand out from other libraries.

Walking through the library feels like stepping into another era, especially when you encounter its vintage interiors. The space is filled with towering glass-cased books, glossy dark brown wood, and finely crafted wooden carvings.

Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 585, L’Eixample, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
Opening hours:
– Monday to Thursday: 8:30AM – 8:30PM
– Friday: 8:30AM – 3PM
– Saturday and Sunday: Closed

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Dipòsit de les Aigües

Constructed in 1874 as a water tower, Dipòsit de les Aigües still appears almost brand new, with its soaring arches and monumental columns. Now part of Universitat Pompeu Fabra, the sheer architectural allure of this space makes it worth a visit even for those uninterested in books.

Dipòsit de les Aigües radiates an undeniable elegance. The way the shelves and tables combine with the exposed brickwork creates a classy yet cozy atmosphere.

Address: Carrer de Ramon Trias Fargas, 25, 27, Sant Martí, 08005 Barcelona, Spain
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 8AM – 9PM
– Saturday and Sunday: 10AM – 9PM

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The Literary Man Óbidos Hotel

Occupying a 19th-century former convent beside Óbidos Castle, you’ll find the Literary Man Óbidos Hotel. The hotel features over 65,000 books scattered across the property, lining guest rooms and communal spaces, embracing all genres and languages.

Guests can enjoy a literary-themed restaurant, gin bar, and creative Portuguese cuisine surrounded by bookshelves. The architecture maintains much of its historic charm, but comes with enough modern updates to make a hotel stay comfortable.

Address: d’Ornelas Edifício The Literary Man Óbidos Hotel, R. Dom João de Ornelas, 2510-074 Óbidos, Portugal
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 3PM
– Check-out time: 12PM

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Josefa D’Óbidos Hotel

Just outside Óbidos’s historic walls, the Josefa D’Óbidos Hotel is a graceful 4-star hotel located just outside the historic walls of Óbidos, Portugal. Though on the smaller size, it promises a comfortable stay and stylish, modernized interiors.

For book lovers, there are two points of interest: the on-site bar hosting poetry sessions and the Josefa Bookcrossing Movement. Inspired by the international bookcrossing trend, this hotel set up a Reading Corner where guests freely take a book from its shelves and leave a book of their own behind. It has over 300 volumes in Portuguese, English, Spanish, and French.

Address: R. Dom João de Ornelas, 2510-074 Óbidos, Portugal
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 2PM
– Check-out time: 12PM

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Livraria Artes e Letras

For rare and antique books, start your journey at Livraria Artes e Letras. This spacious bookstore is nestled in a former century-old wine cellar near the city gate and is a must-visit for collectors and history buffs interested in the colonial period.

Owned by a dedicated husband-and-wife team, they put a lot of love into giving their customers good service, which is one of the things that makes this a local favorite.

Address: Rue da Porta da Vila 16-18, 2510-089 Óbidos, Portugal
Opening hours:
– Wednesday to Saturday: 11:30AM – 5:30PM
– Sunday: 11AM – 5:30PM
– Monday & Tuesday: Closed

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Silver Coast Volunteers Book Exchange

Located near the town gate, this community-run book exchange holds over a thousand donated books in six languages, including English, German, and Portuguese. Visitors can freely take or leave books, with the exchange also hosting events and community activities.

Run entirely by volunteers, it supports local social projects and is part of Óbidos’ City of Literature program, promoting community engagement and literary culture.

Address: R. da Porta da Vila 16/18, 2510-089 Óbidos, Portugal
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 11AM – 1PM & 2PM – 4PM

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Livraria do Mercado (Ler Devagar)

Set within a converted former fire station, Livraria do Mercado is brimming with books, packed all the way up to its peaked ceiling and lining the walls from one end of the store to the next, in multiple languages.

The space is also combined with Óbidos Organic Market, so you can pick up seeds or a bundle of vegetables while you’re browsing for a good read.

Address: R. Direita 26, 2510-070 Óbidos, Portugal
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 1:30PM & 2:30PM – 7PM

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NovaOgiva Gallery Bookstore

Gallery Nova Ogiva is an art gallery with a sparse, postmodern vibe, making extensive use of whitespace and creative placement to create a sense of quietude as people view the art. It also has some unique art featuring bookshelves and readers.

The gallery’s bookshop, meanwhile, isn’t large, but it is filled with books and is a nice place to stop once you’ve finished touring the gallery.

Address: R. Direita 48-81, 2510-001 Óbidos, Portugal
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 10AM – 1PM & 2PM – 5PM
– Monday: Closed

Municipal Museum of Óbidos Bookstore

Livraria do Museu Municipal in Óbidos is the bookshop attached to the Municipal Museum of Óbidos, specializing in books about the town itself, Portuguese history, art, and culture.

The spacious interior offers visitors themed literature tied to the town’s heritage and museum exhibitions. It serves as both a place to buy books and an extension of the museum’s cultural mission.

Address: R. Direita 97, 2510-086 Óbidos, Portugal
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30AM – 1PM & 2PM – 5:30PM
– Monday: Closed

Casa José Saramago – Biblioteca de Óbidos

Named after Portugal’s Nobel laureate José Saramago, Casa José Saramago – Biblioteca de Óbidos is a local library that draws the eye and visitors abroad with its creative, book-themed art displays.

The two most notable examples are a row of giant book spines set against an outdoor wall, and five bookcases in the shape of letters, spelling out the word “Folio.” The library itself often hosts literary programs and events that encourage thoughtful discussion.

Address: R. Direita 99, 2510-057 Óbidos, Portugal
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 6PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 1PM & 2PM – 5PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Livraria de São Tiago (Grande Livraria de Santiago)

In a former church lies Livraria de São Tiago, a unique bookshop famous for its tranquil, atmospheric setting amid centuries-old stone. Its high, arched ceilings and doorways, combined with the gently curved bookcases, give it an almost ethereal design, so it’s no wonder that so many flock through to enjoy the vibe.

Its collection includes multiple languages, most notably Portuguese and English. The bookstore also sometimes plays host to different literary events, making it a true cultural hub.

Address: Largo de São Tiago do Castelo, 2510-006 Óbidos, Portugal
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 1PM & 2PM – 7PM

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O Bichinho de Conto

Though a bit outside the cluster of literary gems hidden within Óbidos’ stone walls, O Bichinho de Conto (which translates to “The Fairy Tale Animal”) is a bookstore you don’t want to miss—especially if you’re traveling with kids.

Housed in a former primary school, this children’s bookstore has an aged exterior with a rust-red terracotta roof. The interior, meanwhile, is bright and colorful without being overwhelming, decorated with lovingly-made handicrafts atop bookshelves and on walls. It also hosts events like storytime readings and is welcoming to all.

Address: Estrada dos Casais Brancos, 60 (Antiga Escola Primária), 2510-212 Óbidos, Portugal
Opening hours:
– Thursday to Sunday: 10AM – 1PM & 3PM – 7PM
– Monday to Wednesday: Closed

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Library Stay Jijihyang

Whether you want to wander along the square shelves of a spacious lounge area or enjoy the privacy of a writing desk in your guest room, Jijihyang Hotel is designed to put any book lover at ease. The hotel has an overall peaceful vibe, with enough of a buffer of greenery between it and the bustle of the city.

This book-themed guesthouse is housed in the same building as the next two spots on this list (each amazing in its own right), making it a perfect retreat for bibliophiles.

Address: 145 Hoedong-gil, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 3PM
– Check-out time: 11AM

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Paju Book City Center

Seated right in the heart of Paju Book City is none other than Paju Book City Center, a large cultural complex with five floors and a basement. It not only houses Jijihyang Hotel, but the famous Forest of Wisdom library, plus multipurpose halls, conference rooms, and exhibition spaces for hosting various literary and cultural events.

If you want to relax, the center (also referred to as the Asia Publication-Culture and Information Center) also has a few cafés good for kicking up your feet.

Address: 145 Hoedong-gil, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 10PM

Forest of Wisdom (지혜의 숲)

The Forest of Wisdom in Paju City is a vast, architecturally striking library housing over 500,000 donated books on towering 8-meter shelves. It offers peaceful reading spaces, seminar rooms, cafés, and even a letterpress museum, perfect for book lovers seeking tranquility.

The library is best known for its appearance as a backdrop in both K-pop videos and K-dramas, recognizable by the pop of color on the shelves that seem to mimic parts of the Korean alphabet.

Address: 145 Hoedong-gil, Gyoha-dong, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 9AM – 8PM

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Book Cafe Noon (효형출판북카페 눈)

This tranquil literary café is best known for its peaceful, mellow atmosphere. Its collection of books is relatively sparse but tasteful, displayed almost like art pieces in tall, narrow shelves lining a wall of the café.

The relaxed and quiet vibe makes for a perfect reading spot as you enjoy the cookies and coffee that many rave about in the reviews.

Address: Munbal-dong, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 6PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 12PM – 6PM

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Milkbook (밀크북)

If you’re looking for a good place to bring your kids while in Paju, try Milkbook on for size. Aside from a delectable range of pastries and other baked goods, this bookstore and café has a first floor that is both kid- and dog-friendly. It has titles for parents and kids of all ages, and even hosts movie screenings with family-friendly films.

You can also head upstairs to the second floor for a peaceful, no-kids zone and enjoy a nice cup of coffee.

Address: 121 Hoedong-gil, Munbal-dong, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9AM – 8PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 10AM – 8PM

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Cafe Book Press

More than just a café, Cafe Book Press stirs the pot by combining a coffee shop with a workshop and publishing complex. Not only do you get to have your pick of dessert or beverage, but you’ll get the rare chance to ogle a vintage letterpress and other antiques. There are a lot of gorgeous leather-bound books on display as well, both on shelves and locked behind glass cases.

It makes for a truly fascinating visit that gives bibliophiles a chance to enjoy some of the history behind book-making and the written word.

Address: 203 Munbal-ro, Gyoha-dong, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Friday: 10AM – 6PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 11AM – 7PM
– Monday: Closed

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Blue Box

With log-ended bookshelves and indoor metal sheet awnings, Blue Box offers a refreshing change of pace for those looking for some unique designs to spice up their reading life. Though it might sound random, this visual effect comes together rather nicely, making you feel almost as if you’ve lost yourself in a distant village and not smack-dab in Book City.

In addition to its thousands of titles on offer, Blue Box has a café with kind service and delicious drinks and treats.

Address: 240-21 Munbal-ro, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 5:30PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 10AM – 6PM

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Booksdot5 (쩜오책방)

A bit further east, you’ll find booksdot5, a bookstore and thriving community hub. This lively space is crowded with books and constantly hosts events like book presentations and arts and crafts. It has a lot of interactive activities for children, in particular, in hopes of instilling a love of reading and freshening up young minds.

While the collection isn’t huge, it’s thoughtfully and lovingly selected, with an owner who genuinely cares about the local community.

Address: 1F 35 Kkotama-gil, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Saturday: 12PM – 6PM
– Monday & Sunday: Closed

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Paju City Hanul Library (파주시 한울도서관)

Paju City Hanul Library is a bit of a standout for its location inside a park veined with cycling paths and filled with sports areas for local teams. Though the exterior might be somewhat unassuming, looking long and almost flat from certain angles, this relatively new library impresses with its vast collection of primarily Korean titles.

Though a bit further out from more central Paju literary spots, the library has a bus stop that makes access fairly easy.

Address: 239 Gyoha-ro, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
– Monday to Thursday: 9AM – 10PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 9AM – 6PM
– Friday: Closed

Book Café Bandi (북카페 반디)

You can find the last cluster of book cafés on the northern edge of Paju, starting with Book Café Bandi. And frankly, if the uniquely curved wooden building wasn’t eye-catching enough, the giant book spines painted onto the front ought to do the trick. This nature-friendly wooden café features a collection of around 4,000 books, classified by subject, and creates a comforting atmosphere.

The café serves fresh tea, milk tea, homemade tea, fresh juice, and coffee. Its warm, oval-shaped interior invites guests to linger and enjoy a drink with a new favorite book on the side.

Address: 1652-273 KR 북카페반디, Beopheung-ri, 탄현면 Tanhyeon-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 6PM

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9Block Café, Heyri Branch (나인블럭 헤이리점)

In Paju’s Heyri Art Village, you can find a branch of a popular café chain, 9Block Café. However, unlike most other locations in this chain, the Heyri branch is a book café, featuring a huge black bookshelf filled with hundreds of volumes.

While some books feel like they’re more for display, being so far out of reach, the café still sells a decent selection, though only in Korean. The café is overall very spacious, with a nice outdoor seating area to boot.

Address: 59-6 KR, Heyrimaeul-gil, Tanhyeon-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Thursday & Sunday: 10AM – 7PM
– Friday & Saturday: 10AM – 10PM
– Monday: Closed

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Comf Avenue

Comf Avenue is another great book café in Heyri Art Village. It has a meticulous style that is a clean blend of both classy and contemporary design, both inside and out. From the frilled half-dome awnings on the white-walled exterior to the high-arched wooden bookshelves, it’s a café that is chic without being intimidating.

Regulars leave glowing praise for the delicious coffee and great views, filled with plenty of seating over its two-storied interior.

Address: 197 Eoreumsil-ro, Tanhyeon-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 8AM – 10PM

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Cafe Seo

Need some sunlight under a field of umbrellas? Cafe Seo’s got you covered. With an outdoor seating area on the second floor carpeted in astroturf and a pseudo-ceiling of dozens of colored umbrellas, this book café stands out amongst its peers. It also has a great view of the fields and river outside.

The first floor is indoors, and this is where you can find books galore covering almost every corner of the café alongside large floor-to-ceiling windows letting in plenty of natural sunlight.

Address: 106-8 Daedong-ri, Tanhyeon-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
– Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday: 11AM – 8PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 11AM – 10PM
– Wednesday: Closed

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Το Λογάρι / LOGARI

Start off your island-hopping with a ferry from Athens to Andros, where you will find To Logari (or, as it’s written in Greek, Το Λογάρι). Located at the port of Gavrio, it has a nostalgic quality, with warm lighting in a white-walled interior and rows of wooden shelving. That sense of nostalgia is only topped off by an old-school jukebox with a selection of 200 songs.

Logari offers not only Greek and multilingual books, including English, German, and Italian, but also a wide range of gift items such as stationery, mugs, blankets, toys, and more.

Address: Gavrio, Gávrio, 845 01, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 11PM

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Antilalos

For a taste of what a Grecian book café is like, head to the island of Tinos and step into Antilalos. This bookstore and café/bar offers a selection of both Greek and English books, plus a unique ‘blind date book’ section—mystery-wrapped titles where you, the reader, get to be surprised by potentially your new favorite book.

Antilalos gets a lot of praise for being health-conscious and attentive to guests with allergies, so you can be at ease if you stop in for a bite after settling on a good page-turner for the road.

Address: Αφεντούλη, Paxamadi και, Tinos 842 00, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 9AM – 1:30AM

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Vivliopontikas

On a picturesque cobbled street in Ermoupoli, Syros, you can find Vivliopontikas, a small and welcoming bookstore filled with literature, poetry, and children’s books in Greek. This shop is especially beloved for its kind and exceptional service, with an owner who’s always happy to help a bookworm find what they need.

It’s an overall beautiful shop, with lots of little surprises, like an alcove with a pseudo-window peeking into a medieval fairy tale. It also sells stationery and gorgeous handmade crafts.

Address: Androu 10, Ermoupoli 841 00, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9:30AM – 2:30PM & 7PM – 10PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 2:30PM & 7PM – 10PM
– Sunday: 7PM – 10PM

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Municipal Library of Syros and the Ermoupoli Cultural Centre

Founded in 1926, the Ermoupoli Cultural Centre is a neoclassical building with beautifully detailed tiles and is home to the Municipal Library of Syros, located on the first floor. Its book collection started with 2,000 volumes and now holds over 45,000, including rare editions and local archives dating back to the 19th century.

Today, the Cultural Centre serves as a hub for exhibitions, cultural events, and educational activities, enriching locals and visitors alike.

Address: Plateia Miaoyli, Ermoupoli 841 00, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Thursday: 9AM – 2:30PM
– Friday: 9AM – 2:30PM & 8PM – 10PM
– Saturday & Sunday: Closed

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The Bookshop Art Café Sifnos

The Bookshop Art Café in Sifnos is bright and inviting, combining a multilingual used bookshop with a cozy café and art gallery. Visitors can explore books in multiple languages (primarily Greek, English, French, German, and Italian), browse international newspapers, and view unique artworks from local Greek artists.

The café also happens to serve some of the best coffee on the island, which you can sip at your leisure in the outdoor seating area.

Address: Kamares, Sifnos 840 03, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 8AM – 11PM

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Kimolos Open Lending Libraries

On the island of Kimolos, you can find four unique, open-air libraries known as the Kimolos Open Lending Libraries. These free-standing bookshelves are placed near different beaches and filled with secondhand books for visitors to borrow freely. Each is a different repurposed, hand-painted boat with a simple environmental message.

This unique project was launched by the volunteer group Kimolistes and is supported by the SeaChange foundation.

Address: Ψάθη 840 04, Greece
Opening hours:
– 24/7; visit whenever

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Atlantis Books

This independent bookstore set on the cliffs of Santorini is a favorite of locals. It has an artistically rustic vibe, with no eclectic bit of decor out of place, and everything coming together to create a symphonic slice of literary culture.

Its book collection holds new, used, and rare volumes in multiple languages, focusing on modern classics, art, poetry, and all things Greek.

Address: Nomikos Conference Centre, Firostefani 847 00, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 10PM

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Amorgos Bookstore

Serving locals since 1996, Amorgos Bookstore welcomes visitors with a wide arched entrance framed in blue. It offers books in Greek and several foreign languages with a vast variety of genres, from poetry and new novels to classics and children’s picture books. You can also find an assortment of stationery, educational toys, postcards, and other gift items adorning its shelves.

Whether you’re looking for a friendly smile or just a good book, this shop is a perfect place to drop by.

Address: Κατάπολα 840 08, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10AM – 9:30PM
– Sunday: 10:30AM – 9PM

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O Kapetanios Bookstore

Though originally an online store operating out of Athens, CaptainBook.gr opened its very own physical shop on Naxos called O Kapetanios Bookstore. It offers a diverse collection of literature in multiple languages, with an emphasis on Greek and English titles. It has a particularly good selection of local culture and Greek mythology, featuring a goodly number of authors living right on Naxos.

For a small part of the year, from August to October, O Kapetanios also hosts Friday poetry nights. If you’re planning your trip in the fall, be sure to stop by!

Address: Platsa, Apirathos 843 02, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10:30AM – 10:30PM

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Papyrus

Papyrus is packed with books, selling over 15,000 secondhand volumes in Greek, English, German, French, Dutch, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, and Italian. The shelves are organized by language, making it easy to find what you’re looking for. It also sells beautiful and unique handmade jewelry in both contemporary and traditional designs.

Travelers can buy, swap, and even return books for partial refunds, meaning you can trade old reads for new treasures and keep your luggage light.

Address: Naxos 843 00, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10AM – 2PM & 6PM – 10PM
– Sunday: 6PM – 10PM

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The Old Bookstore

A favorite among locals, the Old Bookstore is anything but outdated. The interior is spacious, white, and clean-cut, with vibrant red trimming around bookshelves and window frames. The owner is knowledgeable about literature and eager to help customers find a book that will suit their interests.

The collection is well-stocked in Greek and foreign languages such as English and German. There’s also a nice array of toys and stationery, and the store is animal-friendly, to boot!

Address: Παλαιά Αγορά Νάξου, Naxos 843 00, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 9:30AM – 11:30PM
– Sunday: 11AM – 11:30PM

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Levakis Konstantinos “Mediterraneo Bookstore”

Located in Chania’s Old Town on the island of Crete, Mediterraneo Bookstore proudly markets itself as an international bookstore, and it truly delivers. Not only does it specialize in travel books and maps, its collection holds titles in 12 languages, including English, German, Dutch, French, and more.

But it’s not only about travel, though. It also has a decent selection of cookbooks and subjects like local history, especially concerning Crete and Chania/Hania.

Address: Akti Kountourioti 57, Chania 731 31, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10AM – 9PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Akadimia Bookshop

While many Greek Islands boast bookstores with multiple languages, non-Greek speakers will find that Rhodes has pretty slim pickings. Luckily, Akadimia Bookshop has a modest but well-curated selection of English-language books, making it a sort of oasis for English-speaking bookworms on the island.

Most of the English-language volumes are geared towards a female audience, but there are tons of Greek books and also a fair amount of stationery to choose from.

Address: Amerikis 93, Rodos 851 00, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9AM – 2:30PM & 5PM – 9PM
– Saturday: 9:30AM – 3PM
– Sunday: Closed

Rhodes Central Public Library

Established in 1947, Rhodes Central Public Library is housed in the historic Castellania building in Rhodes Old Town. This architectural gem was originally constructed in the 14th century and looks like a low, sturdy outpost with worn brickwork and wide, arched doorways. Over the centuries, it has served as an administrative office, a courthouse, and an impromptu lecture hall.

Today, it stays true to its role as a library, with wooden bookshelves filled with ancient texts nestled against the brick walls.

Address: Aristotelous 1, Rodos 851 00, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday: 8:30AM – 2:30PM
– Wednesday: 10AM – 6PM
– Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Koukoumavla

Jumping over to Patmos, Koukoumavla is a bookstore and art gift shop with a lot of flavor. It catches the eye with its vibrantly colored walls and checkered floors, displaying an abundance of paintings and decor that make the interior pop.

It’s an especially great place for families with young kids, as it has plenty of children’s books and hand-crafted art objects—many created by local artists. It’s the kind of place where a single visit can inspire creativity and a love of reading in anyone.

Address: Patmos 855 00, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 9:30AM – 2PM & 6PM – 10:30PM

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Atrapos Bookstore Café

To get to the next destination, you’ll have to return to Athens and board a bus to Volos, where you can find a ferry to Alonnisos. There, you’ll find an idyllic book café called Atrapos. The bookstore side has a nice selection of titles, both new and secondhand, mainly in Greek with some translated works in English and a few other languages.

Meanwhile, the café mainly has its seating outside in a cobblestone courtyard, surrounded by lush trees, where you can snack on fresh fruits and a variety of beverages.

Address: Αλόννησος 370 05, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 8:30AM – 1:30AM

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Argostoli Public Library (Korgialenios Library)

Head back to Volos and book a cross-country bus to Patras, where you can sail to the island of Kefalonia and the home of the third-largest library in Greece. Argostoli Public Library, also known as Korgialenios Library, was founded a century ago and now houses over 60,000 volumes—including old, rare manuscripts, with the oldest being from 1499.

Though the building was destroyed in a 1953 earthquake, it was rebuilt faithfully 11 years later, marked by a bare, white-barked tree on its stone staircase.

Address: Pilarinou, Kefalonia 281 00, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9AM – 12:30PM
– Saturday & Sunday: Closed

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Plous Books & Coffee

Plous Books & Coffee is a vintage book café with wine-red walls and warm lighting, decorated with retro furniture and posters that give the place a distinct style. It keeps a curated selection of Greek literature and pieces translated into different languages (notably Italian and English).

The café also has a small, outdoor area with its own rustic charm in the aged walls that allow a sense of close-knit privacy while you enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee.

Address: Nikiforou Theotoki 91, Kerkira 491 00, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 10PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 3PM & 7PM – 10PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Corfu Public Central Historical Library

Our final destination is the Public Library of Corfu, Greece’s oldest public library. Established in the mid-18th century, its collection has expanded exponentially over the years thanks to donations and acquisitions during Venetian, French, and British rule. Nowadays, it encompasses over 75,000 volumes, including rare manuscripts.

The library remains a cultural and academic center, with its historic archives open to researchers and visitors.

Address: Corfu 491 00, Greece
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 8AM – 2:50PM
– Saturday & Sunday: Closed

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The post A Book Lover’s Guide to Greek Islands appeared first on Magazine.