Brussels

Aris Grand-Place Hotel

Being located in the middle of Brussels is just one of Aris Grand-Place Hotel’s many highlights. Though the stone exterior might give an impression of aged austerity, the interior is sleek and modern, chock full of simple comfort and convenience.

What book lovers will enjoy most, though, is the on-site café/lounge on the first floor. With shelves stacked up to the ceiling along a wall colored in vivid teal adjacent to floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light, it’s a great place to relax and people-watch in Brussels’ historic center.

Address: 78-80 rue du Marché Aux Herbes, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 3PM
– Check-out time: 11AM

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Tropismes

For one of the most stunning independent bookstores in Brussels, head to Tropismes. Established in 1984 in a former dance school and jazz club, it features ornate stucco ceilings, gilded columns, and mirrored walls that give a surreal sense of infinity—particularly if you’re looking out over the space from the upper floors.

The collection focuses on French literature, but it also has a small selection of English and even Dutch books for travelers stopping by.

Address: 11 Galerie des Princes, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 6:30PM
– Saturday: 10:30AM – 7PM
– Sunday: 1:30PM – 6:30PM

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Waterstones Brussels

This famous UK bookstore chain has locations all over Europe—including Brussels. It also happens to be the biggest English-language bookstore in the country, spanning two floors with extensive fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, and magazines. It even has a bookcase dedicated to popular British snacks.

Visitors praise its broad selection and helpful staff, as well as the cozy armchairs here and there for book browsers hoping to read a bit more extensively.

Address: Bd Adolphe Max 71/75, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 9:30AM – 7PM
– Sunday: 11AM – 5:30PM

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TULITU

Looking for something a little out of the norm? TULITU specializes in feminist and LGBTQ+ literature, primarily in French. It also has a notable selection of Quebec fiction and poetry, all spread out across two floors.

TULITU greets the world with a stylish storefront, but keeps the interior straightforward and simple: no sleight of hand, just high-quality books. Founded by booksellers Ariane Herman and Dominique Janelle, it offers a bright, welcoming space for literature and various author events throughout the year.

Address: Rue de Flandre 55, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Saturday: 11AM – 7PM
– Monday & Sunday: Closed

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Le Passages des Libraires in the Bortier Gallery (La Galerie Bortier)

This covered, two-level passageway is honestly more like a shopping mall with a lot of ventilation. It was first erected in the 1840s, and it has been a place where booksellers gather to sell printed materials, from new and used books to sheet music to stationery.

Ever since the gallery became privately owned in 2023, it has taken a turn into more of a foodie hotspot despite a signed petition to the city not to sell the gallery, or at least to preserve it as a bookseller’s haven. Several bookstores in the gallery were forced to close as a result. However, some bookstores remain, and the gallery is still a beautiful and historic piece of architecture.

Address: Galerie Bortier, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Many restaurants are open daily 9AM – 10PM
– Bookstores mainly open Wednesday to Saturday: 12PM – 6PM

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Filigranes

You know what they say: go big or go home. As the largest independent bookstore in Belgium, Filigranes knows exactly what that means. It has multiple floors stocking over 150,000 titles in French, Dutch, and English.

Consequently, the English section is right next to an on-site café on the second floor, so it’s convenient to pop over when you need a refreshment after some heavy browsing. In addition to books, the store sells a variety of gift items, accessories, and home essentials, and hosts regular author meets and book signings.

Address: Bd de Waterloo 25, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10:30AM – 6:30PM
– Saturday: 10:30AM – 7PM
– Sunday: 10:30AM – 6PM

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Librebook: European Bookshop & Cafe

Librebook is a multilingual bookshop and is proud of it. Located in the Ixelles municipality of Brussels, it stocks contemporary fiction in over 20 European languages, including lesser-known ones like Maltese and Luxembourgish. Its most prominent sections are French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, and Italian.

In addition to its diverse lingual selection, the store sells wine and has its own café where it sometimes hosts events, like author meets and discussions.

Address: Chau. de Wavre 128, 1050 Ixelles, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Saturday: 12PM – 7PM
– Monday & Sunday: Closed

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Tulibris

This cozy, secondhand bookstop specializes in high-quality English fiction and nonfiction. Opened in 2015, it’s the sort of place where you can slot right in and feel right at home, with wooden floors, muted orange walls, and vintage appliances.

It really has the vibe of a lived-in study rather than a sterile, generic bookseller, clearly tended to by someone who deeply cares about books. As a bonus, the prices are also very affordable, which is an especially good deal considering the high level of curation and dedicated service.

Address: Rue de la Tulipe 25, 1050 Ixelles, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday: 11AM – 7PM
– Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Sunday: Closed

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Piola Piccola

In the Saint-Gilles part of Brussels is a book bar—more explicitly, a wine bar and Italian bookstore—called Piola Piccola. On the bookseller side of things, it carries titles in Italian, French, and English and is something of a sister shop to Piola Libri, sharing events on books, music, and even stand-up.

The café side specializes in coffee and wine, and is the space that hosts the aforementioned events that take place multiple times a month.

Address: Rue du Fort 15, 1060 Saint-Gilles, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Friday: 9AM – 9PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 9PM
– Sunday: 10AM – 4PM
– Monday: Closed

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Leuven & Mechelen

KU Leuven University Library

KU Leuven University Library holds a notable part of Belgium’s literary history, with its beginnings traced back to the 15th century as small collections held by university professors. It grew in the centuries to come, but was unfortunately burned down twice, once during each World War. It didn’t fully reopen again until 1951, but now stands as a stunning example of neo-Renaissance design.

If you want a bit more of an informed journey through this historic library, consider trying out the audio tour, available in multiple languages (Dutch, English, and more) through the Heritage App.

Address: Monseigneur Ladeuzeplein 21, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9AM – 7PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 10AM – 6PM

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Mechelen Public Library – Het Predikheren

This public library is housed in a restored 17th-century monastery that reopened as a library after serving its time as a military hospital. It preserves the simplicity and austerity of its roots while adding modern touches of design and convenience.

Nowadays, it has study areas, a café, and a children’s attic room with puppets sitting atop the exposed wooden beams criss-crossing the ceiling. Though it’s not decked out in gold and intricate detailing like many of the world’s most famous libraries, there is a quiet reverence in the blending of old and new that is very appealing to behold.

Address: Goswin de Stassartstraat 88, 2800 Mechelen, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Tuesday & Thursday: 10:30AM – 7:30PM
– Wednesday & Friday: 10:30AM – 5PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 4PM
– Sunday: 10AM – 12:30PM
– Monday: Closed

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Antwerpen

Luddites Books & Wine

This bookstore and wine bar rejects modern technology. Wi-Fi? Why, no. E-readers? Egads, don’t even think of it. This is a space dedicated to stepping away from the digital world and immersing yourself in literary culture and human connection.

Alongside the store’s curated selection of English and Dutch fiction, nonfiction, art, and various merchandise, its bar keeps up a steady supply of wines, coffee, snacks, and cake. Overall, it has a serene atmosphere; a quiet retreat where you can disconnect from the chaos of daily life and immerse yourself in a book club, salon, or just a nice beverage.

Address: Hopland 34, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Wednesday to Sunday: 11AM – 8PM
– Monday & Tuesday: Closed

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Bibliotheek Permeke

Bibliotheek Permeke is Antwerp’s main public library, named after a local figure, Oscar Permeke. It features a striking modern design, with one side of the exterior encased in tinted glass and a bold postmodern interior that juxtaposes concrete with bright colors and swirling design elements.

The library offers an extensive array of books and other media in multiple languages, with study rooms and computers available for public use, and even a room set aside for non-native Dutch speakers. It also hosts plenty of community activities and programs like language courses.

Address: De Coninckplein 26, 2060 Antwerpen, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 7PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 10AM – 4PM

Ghent

Le Bal Infernal – used book café

Night owls, never fear. Le Bal Infernal stays up late to supply you with plenty of books and plenty of cocktails. This book café/bar is great for stirring up inspiration, with a solid wall filled with volumes you’re free to either read or lend out. The primary language is Dutch, but there are some in English as well.

The food menu is limited mostly to light meals (think sandwiches and soup), but the range of drinks is very extensive, ranging from beer and cocktails to coffee, homemade lemonade, and mocktails. And since it’s open so late, you can relax and while away the hours.

Address: Kammerstraat 6, 9000 Gent, Belgium
Opening hours:
– Monday to Thursday: 11AM – 12AM
– Friday & Saturday: 11AM – 1:30AM
– Sunday: 11AM – 6:30PM

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

A Bright Idea Born in a Challenging Place

In a rural area marked by years of conflict and harsh climate conditions, something remarkable has taken shape: a public library and innovation hub founded by siblings Yohans and his sister. Fresh out of university, instead of heading straight into career life, they made a bold, beautiful decision: to build a place where young people could learn, explore, create, and simply be kids again.

It’s the kind of story that makes you smile, because it proves that even in difficult environments, hope has a way of rebuilding itself one book, one idea, one young mind at a time. All it takes is a little passion, a little magic, and the right person (or persons!).

Turning a Vision Into a Community Treasure

What started as a simple “what if?” conversation soon became a full community project. Yohans and his sister wanted to create a safe, inspiring space where young people could grow academically and creatively. They imagined a place where resources were abundant, opportunities were visible, and curiosity was encouraged.

And they didn’t just imagine it, or wish it would happen, they made it real. They did that.

Together, they gathered books, prepared digital materials, set up computers, and transformed an empty space into something meaningful. The moment the doors opened, the community felt an immediate shift. Suddenly, there was a place designed with them in mind, a center that belonged to everyone.

A Library Filled With More Than Pages

One of the highlights of the center is its growing library. It holds over 900 hard-copy books spanning fiction, science, history, exam guides, children’s literature, and biographies, you name it. Whether someone wants to escape into a story, study for school, or explore a new subject, the shelves offer a comforting abundance of options.

But that’s not all. The siblings put everything into this center.

They have also built an impressive digital collection of over 3000 digital books and 800 educational videos stored on a dedicated computer. These digital resources have quickly become a favorite among students who love discovering interactive content or subjects they’ve never encountered before.

In a community where access to information has long been limited, this library does more than provide knowledge. It truly opens doors that were once firmly shut. It is a stepping stone for people to get the same opportunities Yohans did, to grow and expand their minds, to learn, to innovate, and, maybe, to give back to their communities, just like he has.

The Innovation Hub: Where Ideas Come to Life

Yohans and his sister knew that today’s world requires more than books alone. Young people need exposure to technology, digital skills, and hands-on learning. So they created something that was more than just a brick-and-mortar library. The Mekdim Library and Creativity Lab is somewhere that nurtures the mind, the creativity, and the soul of anyone who visits. That’s why they call it an innovation hub; it’s a vibrant center that encourages exploration and experimentation.

The hub is a place where local youth can:

• Tinker with tech tools
• Experiment with creative ideas
• Collaborate on school or community projects
• Explore coding basics
• Get familiar with digital learning
• Share and develop innovations

Sure, it’s not a high-tech Silicon Valley lab, but that’s exactly what makes it powerful. It proves that innovation doesn’t require flashy gadgets. All it needs is curiosity, a computer, and a supportive environment.

The hub has already become a buzzing spot where students gather, debate ideas, and proudly share their small inventions and projects. In a place recovering from years of hardship, this corner delivers something priceless: the belief that creativity and possibility belong to everyone.

Keeping Learning Fun

One of the most heartwarming parts of the center is the small entertainment corner. A cozy addition created with the simple idea that young people don’t just need to study; they need to relax, laugh, and enjoy themselves.

The entertainment area helps kids unwind after school or reading sessions. It’s become a natural gathering place where friendships form, laughter echoes, and the stress of daily life, not to mention the lingering weight of conflict, momentarily melts away.

This thoughtful blend of learning and fun makes the space feel alive and welcoming. It’s not a strict academic environment; it’s a community home for growth and joy.

It’s exactly what somewhere needs after so many years of hardship and pain within the community, and really, it could only have been built by people who knew the pain, who understood what the town had gone through.

The post These Siblings Brought a Public Library and Innovation Hub to Their Rural Community in Ethiopia appeared first on Magazine.

The book is probably sitting there on the shelf, but the problem is that there are too many classics out there to read. Several thousand must-read popular classics have been written over the years, but here is a quick guide to the literary classics that book lovers have a higher chance of discussing.

The American Dream

America is a land of opportunities, and since James Truslow Adams popularized the phrase “The American Dream” in his 1931 book, The Epic of America, several great stories have followed. With these books, one gets to understand that behind the glamour and fancy words lies gritty, tragic, and costly prices paid for ambition and societal development. 

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Exploring the corruption of the American Dream, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s take on glittery tragedy thematically combines the beauty of the Jazz Age, love, social class, and wealth. With an ending that stays with the reader for an eternity, the story set on New York’s Long Island, questions whether wealth can actually buy happiness and erase the past.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Empathy seems long lost in today’s world, but reading Harper Lee’s words in To Kill a Mockingbird through the eyes of Scout Finch baptizes one with an overdose of emotions. With themes like racism, prejudice, innocence, morality, and social inequality, To Kill a Mockingbird is one of those books society needs to go back to reading once a year. 

The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. (Jerome David) Salinger

The teenage years are very sensitive, as they can make everything go right or make everything go wrong. For the disillusioned character, 16-year-old Holden Caulfield, The Catcher in the Rye was about coming of age in a journey marred with adolescent angst, identification, alienation, the loss of innocence, and just how much of a hypocrite adults are. 

The People that Burn, and Society

One thing is pertinent to do in our time on earth as humans, and that is to meet people, connect, and love. From family, to friends, and people that cause our senses to numb, there is a world of stories to be told, and some classics have defined the category.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Regardless of the differing opinions of many on this book, the work of Jane Austen stands out and can be argued to be one of the foundations of romantic comedy. Typical of the era it was set in, the female characters faced the pressure of being married for financial stability. The modern mind might find this ridiculous, but that shouldn’t distract the reader from the fact that the book explores the need for an ability to judge character when building relationships. 

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

Gothic mystery mixed with romance? Jane Eyre is the epitome. This book sheds bright light on the complexities of relationships amidst societal expectations, harsh teenage realities, secrets, independence, and self-discovery. For readers in search of independent heroines to take cues from, Jane Eyre is the right pick.

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Family is such a beautiful concept, but it can be ridiculously tough. The level of complication can be mindboggling, especially with the love-hate web of relationships that quickly form. No book depicts the full picture of family and the friction it has with personal ambition as much as Little Women. This book is definitely worth the wait and read. 

The Future from the Past

A lot of classics have the current world as the future. Back in the day, when authors imagined what the future would look like, the plots felt wild. But reading those books today will feel different because we can see the difference between the imagined and the real. 

1984 by George Orwell

While the specifics differ slightly, the core theme around the loss of privacy explored in the book is one with which parallels can be drawn with the modern day. In a world where a chat about a product with a friend on a messaging app can lead to the user seeing related ads on another platform, 1984 feels a little too real from the perspective of now. To make matters worse, there are reality shows with a Big Brother that sees everything in today’s world. 1984 was a warning, and one that often feels ignored.

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

In a society against knowledge, one fireman decided to go against the order to secretly join a group seeking to preserve literature and rebuild intellectualism. While this might not be the exact scenario playing out in modern day, the current threat to knowledge is closely related, and the world needs more saviors like Guy Montag.

Beyond the Reading

In today’s world, there is more than one way to enjoy classical books. Other than sitting silently in a room to read or have headphones on with subtle music playing, one can go for the audiobook experience. Then, movie adaptations of books have also grown to become great alternatives for people without enough time to flip through hundreds of pages. But with the classics listed above, the first fifty pages are enough to get real booklovers hooked till the end. 

The post 8 Literary Classics That Deserve a Spot on Your Reading List in 2026 appeared first on Magazine.

Meet the Game Changer: Ymani Wince

First things first: we absolutely have to talk about Ymani Wince. She isn’t just the owner of a local bookstore; she’s a community spark plug with a major soft spot for books, kids, and breaking down barriers. Her shop, The Noir Bookshop, sits on Cherokee Street in St. Louis, and it’s exactly the kind of cozy, inclusive place you might find yourself lingering in for longer than you planned. It’s not just a bookstore; it’s a hub for education, artistry, and a celebration of Black literature and culture.

But Ymani looked around her city and saw something that didn’t sit right. St. Louis, despite being a vibrant cultural mosaic, has pockets that are what experts call book deserts, areas where kids simply don’t have easy access to books at home or even nearby. And that isn’t some harmless quirk. It correlates with lower literacy, lower reading proficiency, and, let’s be honest, fewer chances for kids to fall in love with the sheer joy of reading.

So instead of complaining about “how it’s always been,” she thought: what if we did something about it?

ONYX: Not Your Average Vending Machine

Enter ONYX, not a new phone, not a fancy coffee dispenser, but a free book vending machine aimed at putting stories directly into the hands of students. And the best part? They don’t pay money; they pay with curiosity, tokens, and excitement.

Here’s how it works: community centers, clubs, and other local spaces house these vending stations. Kids get a special token from the staff or center, and boom: they choose a book they want. It’s as simple as that: token goes in, book comes out. No money changing hands, just pure opportunity.

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It’s brilliant, really. It bypasses traditional barriers to reading. Families who can’t afford books, people who would maybe never even consider it, get free access. It meets people where they are, it doesn’t ask much of them, it simply provides.

And what it provides comes with an ample helping of autonomy. The vending machine lets people choose their book, which helps keep the fun and excitement that we all love about bookstores.

Why It Matters

Let’s be real: literacy isn’t just about reading words on a page. It’s about confidence, opportunity, self-expression, dreams, and possibilities. Multiple studies have shown that access to reading materials sets children up not just for academic success, but long-term health benefits too, like better vocabulary, stronger cognitive skills, and even lower risk of depressive symptoms. Books aren’t just pages; they’re power tools for life.

And here’s the kicker: in St. Louis, Black students are more than twice as likely to struggle with grade-level reading proficiency compared with white students. That’s the kind of statistic that makes people stop and think. So having initiatives like ONYX isn’t just nice, it’s necessary. The machine isn’t a gimmick; it’s a practical, innovative response to a real, measurable need.

What’s especially cool is how this doesn’t feel like charity in the “pity” sense. It feels like empowerment. Kids choose books they want. They walk away holding something they picked, not something handed down.

More Than One Machine

Let’s be clear, though, this ONYX is just the beginning. Wince has bigger plans. She’d love to see multiple machines in community centers, recreation spaces, YMCAs, and anywhere where kids can reach them easily. And the plan? Not just to plant machines, but to create a network, a city-wide circulation of books, literacy resources, and reading inspiration.

Books have the power to transform a life, and Ymani wants that for every kid in her area. If a vending machine can be the hook that gets them reaching for a book, then it’s well worth it. And honestly? It’s a beautiful blend of creativity and practical problem-solving, not some lofty idea that lives only in conversations. This is real life, real impact, real kids grabbing real stories.

Community First, Always

Another thing that’s just plain lovely about this whole effort? The community vibe. ONYX has been placed in a place where kids already go, where they’re safe and where they belong.

And not only that, these machines rely on community involvement; people can donate books or even support the project financially. So it’s not Ymani doing this alone; it’s neighbors helping neighbors build a more literate future.

This is grassroots in its truest sense: not top-down mandates, but local action for local change. And the ripple effect of that? That’s where real transformation happens.

The post Meet the St. Louis Bookstore Owner Who Launched a Vending Machine to Give Free Books to Kids appeared first on Magazine.

Fortunately, beyond the intellectual advantage and familial bonding having a home library can create, its aesthetic function cannot be understated. With a library, one can redefine their personal space, and it’s always fun helping book lovers achieve such.

Defining the Space

It doesn’t matter the size of the house, home libraries always add a unique definition to the space. And when a space is properly defined, coming from work is always going to be a good idea. And what better way to switch off from the digital world than curling up in a bean bag in the library? 

The Unexpected Nook

Having a home library isn’t about dedicating a whole room to shelves and books. Of course, if that card is on the table, there’s nothing better than a book cave. But in the absence of a free room, an unused corner in the home can be transformed into a haven of books. To be honest, having a home library is less about the space and more about taking advantage of empty spaces, even if it’s not a long, continuous empty space. Whether it’s under the stairs or along a wide hallway, everyone can have a home library.

The Vertical Advantage

No matter how busy the floor of the home is, there will always be a wall to accommodate floating shelves. And all one needs to establish a home library is a shelf of books. When done well, it’s fun having floating shelves that reach all the way to the ceiling. Though that means the installation has to be done by a professional, because more books mean additional weight. In this case, DIY might not be the best option in this case to prevent the library from crashing on a quiet Saturday afternoon. 

The Rolling Library

When building a home library, flexibility is a luxury one can afford. One can use a tiered rolling card, which is practical for keeping books to be read. Thanks to this, there’s a combination of organization and mobility, such that readers can simply wheel their library from one room to another. 

Curating The Aesthetic

While libraries are a store of knowledge, they can also provide an aesthetic to the space. That’s why color-coding book arrangement is a real thing. Beyond color, books can be arranged by size to form art pieces. 

The Rainbow Coordination

Great color combinations and arrangements can be done by anyone; one doesn’t have to be an interior designer. When trying to make colors, it’s best to arrange the books by the spine, forming a gradual transition from reds to blues, greens, and beyond.

The Cozy Seating

What is a library without a cozy chair that stops one from getting up? So, for a home library to be perfect, it must have the right comfort chair. An oversized armchair or a window seat with plenty of cushions. 

Greenery and Leaves

Nothing is as calming as nature. But since the home library won’t be in the woods, one can simulate nature in the home. Having great trailing plants like a pothos or a snake plant provides a contrast of green on the paper pages. Plants breed life into space. 

Adding the Personal Touch

While the home library is a place for books, adding personal items brings personality to the space. With personal stuff, the home library truly becomes the reader’s. 

Literary Memorabilia

Space gamification works with home libraries. So, as a collector, it’s time to play. With cool stuff like the wand of Harry Potter, a map of the Earth, or a cool inherited vintage typewriter on the shelf, the library goes to a new level of fun and character. 

The Scent of Stories

Great scents can cause one to stay in a place for longer. This makes scented candles a great option for home libraries. From the smell of old books, rain, or even tea, great scents make the library perfect. 

Framed Quotes

Framing quotes is commonplace in homes. But in a home library, quotes from favorite authors on the shelves are the way to go. After spending time choosing lines that resonate, placing them between book stacks introduces a healthy level of inspiration. 

Managing the Collection

Beyond aesthetics, a home library benefits from regular care and organization. Books may be loaned to friends or rotated through community swaps, making it helpful to keep track of titles. After all, part of the joy of owning a home library is sharing it with others.

The post A Guide to Creating Your Cozy Home Library appeared first on Magazine.

Sure, we’d like to know what they think of us, but do we ever stop and ask ourselves what we think of them? Newness is great. Breaking a routine can refresh your brain. However, there is an undeniable hidden power in the intimacy of a small social circle.

Your Friends as a Personal “Library” of Influences

If you are reading this article, you are likely a fan of the written word, an avid book enthusiast, or a writer. Think of our friends as titles that compose our own personal library. We invest in them, we go to them for comfort and knowledge, and they guide our thoughts about the world and the future.

Of course, every so often we’ll stretch our wings, living wildly enough to try another genre, or buy that book that everyone seems to be talking about. We may even enjoy our little experiments, but that doesn’t mean we hadn’t already curated a very good library before. Our own curation of friends, our bibliothèques of people, are living reflections of our current selves as well as the people we are striving to be.

The Value of Curating a Close Social Circle

Any good editor would tell you that sometimes you need just a little rephrasing. Instead of deeming ourselves antisocial, perhaps we should recognise that we simply like keeping our circle small. It can take months, even years, to make good-quality friends. Trust needs to be built; it is never guaranteed. Time is the only trial that can prove to us the strength of a friendship, so it is only logical that we hold onto the people who have endured such tribulations.

Deep Conversations vs. Small Talk: What Really Connects Us

Oscar Wilde once said that ‘the bond of all companionship, whether in marriage or friendship, is conversation.’ Profound conversations, the ones that last until the awakening of the world or the falling of the sun, are necessary for human happiness. To be understood, one must be known, and who knows us better than our most trusted friends? Many enjoy the softness of small talk, but for some, it remains a pointless ritual that serves little purpose.

Lighter conversation topics are not unimportant, but they can feel like a barrier to getting somewhere deeper, to having the kind of discourse that changes and builds a person. Your circle may indeed be small, but it is more than likely filled with the type of people who can harbour meaningful conversation. People who know you, who know the person behind the social conventions and expectations, allow a greater level of connection. 

How Social Media Fuels Comparison and Loneliness

Despite knowing all of this, we cannot deny the fact that popularity still holds weight. Social weight. Humans have always been creatures of comparison, but the age of social media has fashioned a digital world of constant evaluation and appraisal. Our social media feeds are mirror balls reflecting our own insecurities from the intimate discomfort of our hands.

Watching others at new events or fabulous-looking parties, surrounded by unfamiliar and exciting new faces, can subconsciously feed us that we aren’t participating enough. Having a never-ending social group is great for the likes, and, in some ways, our social currency, but the rewards stop skin-deep. 

The Difference Between Connection and Noise

Yes, socialising is undoubtedly good for our mental and physical health, but only when it is quality. We may be living in the Age of Connection, but both young people and older adults are feeling increasingly overwhelmed and isolated. You can feel just as lonely surrounded in a room humming with people as when you are alone in your bedroom.

Reducing loneliness means seeking authenticity and filling our lives with individuals who see us for who we are. The accounts we see online are a different kind of curation, one that serves to distort reality. 

What Psychology Says About Strong Social Bonds

Psychology has something else to say. Studies have found direct links between life prosperity and social connection, showing that strong social connections increase your quality of life, reduce your risk of mortality, and make your academic and professional achievements more consistent.

Having close friends who understand you can increase feelings of personal self-worth and can give you the courage to not only have dreams, but to reach for them. Other research argues that communities with strong social bonds are safer and healthier than communities with weaker social connections. 

Like a beautiful but curated library, the friends we keep are more than just our societal currency; they are our sanity and happiness. Humans are meant to seek connection, they are meant to try new things, but they are also meant to seek things that last. Your circle is your chosen family, born not of blood but of choice, with bonds that run deeper than any shallow societal expectations.

The post The Surprising Power of Keeping Your Social Circle Small appeared first on Magazine.

But some want to take things a step further and bring that bookish atmosphere into their hotel stay. The UK makes this easy with a range of literary-themed accommodation options.

If you’re a book lover planning a trip to the UK and need a place to stay, be sure to check out these properties when booking.

Limehouse Library Hotel, London

There are many incredible scientists, authors, and philosophers who’ve left their mark on the world, and the Limehouse Library Hotel in London makes sure they get the recognition they deserve. All 75 of their rooms are named after major historical figures, from Jane Austen to George Orwell.

These aren’t just standard hotel spaces. They’re crafted with intention and detail to honor the icons they represent. You can choose from superior double rooms, deluxe king options, deluxe suites, and spacious duplex suites.

Address: Limehouse Library, 638 Commercial Rd, London E14 7HS, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 3PM
– Check-out time: 12PM

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Neidpath Castle Cottage, Peebles

Once the home of Scottish aristocrats, Neidpath Castle and its cottages in Peebles, Scotland, hold a timeless history that carries into the present. Those who visit will be spoiled with a stay surrounded by Scottish nature and accommodation options designed with readers in mind.

Barn’s Library is the room option to keep an eye out for. It’s a real retreat, with a four-poster bed and a wood-burning stove that keeps the space nice and toasty for when you settle in with a few books from the dedicated selection provided for guests.

Address: Neidpath Castle, Peebles EH45 8NW, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 4PM – 12AM
– Check-out time: 11AM

Hypatia Apartment, Penzance

The Hypatia Trust in Penzance is a fantastic organization that publishes materials celebrating women’s accomplishments. You won’t find many bookstores like this in this part of the UK, which makes their commitment to celebrating women even more impressive.

At their site in Penzance, they offer a homely, spacious two-bedroom apartment with a kitchen, patio, and plush couches, available for traveling literary enthusiasts. It’s also dog-friendly, and the profits support the charity.

Address: Lower Ground Floor, The Regent, 54 Chapel St, Penzance TR18 4AE, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 4PM – 9PM
– Check-out time: 10AM

The Studio and Hut, Georgeham

It was famed author Henry Williamson who first owned the site where the Studio and Hut stand today. The writer behind works such as Tarka the Otter left a clear imprint on this property in Georgeham, with his original author’s hut still standing firmly in the garden.

The Studio and Hut have the charm of a secluded cabin in the woods, completely removed from everyday life. Small details such as a dedicated reading area and a selection of books, including some by Williamson himself, bring the entire setting together.

Address: EX33, Georgeham, Croyde, Braunton EX33 1JN, United Kingdom 
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 3PM
– Check-out time: 10PM

University Arms Hotel, Cambridge

The University Arms Hotel is a true literary getaway in Cambridge that’s guaranteed to appeal to admirers of the written word. The experience begins in the library, where shelves filled with books line the walls and readers gather in the center to discuss their favorite titles. 

Each room follows the book-inspired theme as well, with some featuring designated bookshelves that divide the space, luxury bedding, and marble bathrooms that add a lavish touch. Guests will also be treated to a wealth of extras, including a literature-focused themed afternoon tea and a book butler service that delivers new reads to your room if the selection provided doesn’t suit your style.

Address: 52-42 Regent St, Cambridge CB2 1AD, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 4PM
– Check-out time: 12PM

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Tigharry Schoolhouse, Outer Hebrides

A former school dating back to the 19th century, Tigharry Schoolhouse in the Outer Hebrides is a paradise for anyone with an affinity for books. Why? It has a library of up to 1,000 texts, all neatly arranged to create an eye-catching display and plenty for guests to dive into.

When you’re not flicking through the collection, which covers topics like travel, science, design, and more, you’ll likely be relaxing in the Scandinavian-themed communal spaces. These come complete with pendant lighting, grooved walls, and a wood burner.

Address: Tigharry Schoolhouse, Isle of North Uist, Outer Hebrides HS6 5DE, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 4PM
– Check-out time: 10AM

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Gladstone’s Library, Deeside

How does spending a night in the only prime ministerial library in all of the UK sound? That’s what you have the opportunity to do at Gladstone’s Library at Deeside. With 26 clean, modern rooms on site, readers can stay over and make use of all the library’s facilities, including the reading and theology rooms and communal lounges.

In Gladstone’s Library, there’s a wealth of items waiting to be discovered, such as a collection belonging to Gladstone himself. Even though the building dates back to 1902, it’s a spectacular sight to behold with its dark wooden beams, imposing arches, and cozy reading corners. Plus, the money earned from bookings goes directly towards maintaining the site, so you know it’s being put to good use.

Address: Church Lane, Hawarden, Flintshire CH5 3DF, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 2PM
– Check-out time: 10AM

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The Boatman’s Reading Rooms, Deal

The Boatman’s Reading Rooms were originally created as a refuge for sailors working in the area. Today, it’s a calm and refreshing escape with impressive views of the English Channel, giving bookworms a quiet place to unwind for a few nights in Kent.

Several thoughtful details make the Boatman’s Reading Rooms stand out, including a library set aside for visitors and a few pieces honouring the great Charles Dickens himself.

Address: 23 The Strand, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DX, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 4PM – 10PM
– Check-out time: 10AM

The post 8 Cozy Stays in the UK for Book Lovers appeared first on Magazine.

Libraries as Beacons of Hope and Equality

Eliot, as many other writers have, saw libraries as beacons of hope. Of progress. There needs to be more love letters to libraries, not simply the beautiful, elaborate ones situated in the middle of Paris or Vienna, but even your humble, local library.  

Unlike a regular store, a library is not a place that simply holds things; it does not exist to sell or make a profit. It provides a community with knowledge; it can change the trajectory of someone’s life. Like little Matilda in Roald Dahl’s book of the same name, finding a local library and beginning to read can pull you onto a different path than the one life has set out for you. 

How Libraries Break Cycles of Poverty

Education, according to the United Nations, has proven instrumental in changing cycles of poverty and providing vulnerable, marginalized communities with greater opportunities. Access to books, both fiction and non-fiction, enables individuals to access better jobs with higher earning ranges. Even in the wealthiest of countries, opportunity is often afforded by privilege. Libraries softly challenge this norm, allowing communities to access a plethora of texts without requiring payment.  

The Decline of Third Spaces — and the Library’s Crucial Role

Do not, however, let the gentleness and openness of the modern library deceive you – libraries have been under attack ever since their creation. Power comes in many forms, and knowledge is arguably the most prevailing.  Any person or group seeking control knows that libraries are a source of quiet but certain defiance. Flowing sources of information that serve also as spaces of meeting, sharing ideas, and connection. These kinds of third spaces can certainly be a threat to people who seek control and obedience.

Ray Oldenburg was the first to coin the term “third spaces.”  A space that was neither the workplace nor the home, but another space vital for providing connection and community. Third spaces are disappearing in the Western world, our days are getting busier, and we have less time for life outside of our first two spaces. Libraries, however, have stayed put.

They host book clubs, classes, films, and workshops, amongst other things. Libraries remain areas of transformation, as well as havens of comfort and safety. Moreover, there are limited spaces where young people can pass their time without cost. Sure, a café is great for writing or reading, but it comes at the price of a warm drink and may not be sustainable for a whole day. 

Libraries vs. AI: Why Human Learning Still Matters

Yet, some may still argue: Who needs libraries when you’ve got a shiny ChatGPT search bar that can give you answers in mere seconds? What is the point of learning when you can simply attain the information without understanding? 

If you cannot hear the tongue-in-cheek sarcasm, rest assured, this is not an advertisement for abandoning the real world for the virtual. Instead, a gentle reminder that having all the world’s knowledge at our fingertips does not necessarily grant us wisdom. Reports suggest that using ChatGPT can decrease the quality of our critical thinking; our brains have come to expect to attain knowledge without reflection or consideration. When reading a book, our brains are more active; it takes effort and consciousness. Reading can retrain our brains, can ensure that we do what humans do best: think. 

Why Libraries Are One of the Last Truly Public Spaces

Libraries are a moment of repose. The silence is welcoming, the books are loved, and the workers are passionate. The world can stop for a little while, and we can lose ourselves in the loving embrace of a library. A young student can study for his final exams, a mother can show her little child the magical stories she herself read, and an older man can fight loneliness through being surrounded by his community. Time passes slowly, softly, and with no judgement.

A Brief History of the World’s First Library

The word ‘library’ is derived from the Latin word ‘Libraria’, meaning ‘a place storing books.’ This vital third space is not something of the new age, but an institution that has existed for much of human history. If you were to time-travel five thousand years ago, you may arrive at the world’s first ever library: The Library of Ashurbanipal. Whilst it wouldn’t have been filled with pretty, cosy lighting and bulletin boards of community events, it was still home to a plethora of knowledge that has allowed for much of our modern understanding. 

The Library of Ashurbanipal was home to a collection of around 30,000 clay tablets with various languages and texts, including the world’s oldest poem, The Epic of Gilgamesh. Nineveh, the city where the library stood, was once burnt to the ground by invaders. If the knowledge had been written on paper or papyrus, it would have turned to ashes, lost to the winds of time. However, the clay tablets of the libraries proved impenetrable, and the deadly fire only further preserved the texts for thousands of years to come.

What We Lose If We Lose Libraries

Libraries may stand humbly, being of little consideration to most, but they are a meeting of the future and the past and the present. Resisting a world of money, they argue that the people’s greatest capital is their minds. If you ever feel pessimistic about the future, just remember, the mere existence of libraries in our world today is hope that someone believes in our world tomorrow.

The post The Quiet Power of Libraries and Why We Need Them More Than Ever appeared first on Magazine.

From Number Crunching to Book Stacks

Imagine spending decades balancing numbers, filing ledgers, printing reports, and then, at retirement, deciding that what your life really needs is a mountain of books in a narrow Sicilian street. That’s exactly what Pietro Tramonte did. For years, he worked as an accountant in Palermo. It was steady, predictable, perhaps even a bit humdrum. But behind the spreadsheets and tax returns, Tramonte harbored a different passion: reading. He amassed a large private library.

When he formally retired in 2013, according to one source, rather than rest and enjoy the Sicilian sun, he turned what had been an impressive private collection into something magical. He set up his own public, open-air street library right in the heart of Palermo. It’s right there, out in the open, ready and waiting for people who love books as much as he does.

What began as a personal hobby, carefully caring for books at home, became a vocation: sharing literature with everyone. With that decision, Tramonte traded financial ledgers for dusty tomes, spreadsheets for paperbacks, and gained something much bigger: a purpose.

A Street Library With Heart (And Thousands of Books)

The result of Tramonte’s leap of faith is stunning. His “library” isn’t a polished, silent room in a building. It sprawls across a tiny alley near Piazza Monte Santa Rosalia, just off a busy Palermo street. Shelves, sometimes under tarps, sometimes under balconies, groan under the weight of tens of thousands of books.

Estimates of the size of the collection vary, but reports put it at anywhere from 45,000 to as many as 70,000 volumes over time. The books cover a wild mix, from novels to poetry, history, even old classics, and some stunning, rare finds. There’s no digital catalog, no formal system: this is as analog and as spontaneous as libraries get.

The rules, too, are charmingly flexible. Some books are for sale, others can be loaned or traded. Donations are welcome. Sometimes all it takes is a “like” on the library’s social media presence to take a book home. It’s delightfully quirky and a fitting nod to the modern age.

Resilience and Passion

And, right in the middle of it all, is Tramonte himself. He sits, just waiting, always ready with a recommendation, a poem, a story. Visitors come not only for the books, but for his conversation, wisdom, and a shared love for literature. For him, the library is much more than just business; it’s a passion.

When the city authorities threatened to close him down due to a lack of authorization and the library’s failure to meet public space regulations, the community responded with an outpour of support. So much so that local authorities got the message, calling the library a “meritorious action of grassroots cultural promotion.”

Voices From the Alley: What Visitors Say

One of the loveliest things about Pietro Tramonte’s library is how often people walk away talking about him just as much as the books. Visitors describe the experience less like browsing a street stall and more like wandering into a friend’s living room… if that living room happened to spill out into a Palermo side street and contain thousands of books.

One visitor reviewed the library, saying: “Molto più di una libreria… un luogo di vita, di cultura, di tradizioni.”, which translates to “Much more than a bookshop, a place of life, culture, traditions.”

Someone else called it a “beautiful travelling library,” and one review describes it as “an incredible place” with “thousands of books,” going as far as to say it is a “must-do experience for book lovers.”

Protecting and Sharing The Written Word

Pietro left behind a world of numbers for a world of literature, to share and distribute stories to those around him. In his own way, he’s protecting the written word.

Pietro Tramonte is a protector of the written word whose story appears in Protectors of the Written Word, alongside 24 others who have dedicated their lives to sharing the joy of reading. The book brings together inspiring stories from around the world for anyone who believes in the power of books. Order your copy to discover these journeys and be inspired to champion literacy and stories. You can order your copy here.

The post Meet the Retired Accountant Who Built a Street Library in Palermo appeared first on Magazine.

Wait… Adults Are Coloring? Absolutely!

If you’ve walked into a bookstore lately and spotted shelves full of coloring books that clearly weren’t designed for five-year-olds, don’t worry. You’re not imagining things. Coloring books for adults are officially having a massive comeback, and honestly? It’s about time.

Once just a childhood staple, coloring has transformed into a legit grown-up trend. Busy professionals, exhausted parents, overworked college students, and basically anyone craving a little calm are picking up colored pencils and rediscovering the kind of happiness they haven’t felt since recess.

And the best part? It’s fun. It’s soothing. It’s slightly rebellious in the “I’m an adult coloring dragons at 11 p.m.” sort of way. In short, adulting just got a lot more colorful.

Why This Trend Came Back, And Why It’s Here to Stay

Let’s be honest: the world has gotten stressful. Between work deadlines, grocery prices, endless notifications, and whatever’s happening in the news, we’re all looking for little pockets of peace wherever we can get them.

Along comes the humble coloring book.

It’s low-pressure. It’s quiet. It’s almost meditative. And once you start filling in a page, your brain basically sighs in relief like, “Finally… something that doesn’t require multitasking.”

Mental-health experts have even said that coloring can help reduce anxiety, improve focus, and promote mindfulness. Sure, it’s not quite a vacation or a spa weekend, but it’s way cheaper, portable, and doesn’t require PTO.

Mindfulness Disguised as a Hobby

One of the biggest reasons coloring books took off again is their mindfulness effect. When you’re carefully shading tiny petals or filling in complex geometric patterns, you can’t really think about tomorrow’s to-do list. Your brain is too busy deciding between sky blue and turquoise… or maybe even aqua blue.

Coloring gently forces you into the present moment. It pulls your attention away from stress and centers it on something repetitive, relaxing, and creative.

Plus, it’s incredibly hard to doomscroll while holding colored pencils. So there’s that.

Creative Expression Without the Pressure

A lot of adults secretly want to be more creative but feel intimidated by blank pages, fancy art supplies, or the idea that they “can’t draw.” Coloring books fix that instantly.

The outlines are already there. All you have to do is choose the colors.

It’s creativity without judgment. No art teacher grading you. No need to be Picasso. No pressure to produce anything gallery-worthy. Just pure enjoyment as a design slowly comes to life under your hands.

It’s like art training wheels, but for grown-ups, and everyone loves it.

So Many Themes, So Little Time

At first, adult coloring books were mostly mandalas. Beautiful, intricate, calming mandalas. But once the trend exploded, the variety went wild.

Today, you can find coloring books featuring:

• cozy bookish places
• detailed nature scenes
• quirky animals and cute illustrations
• pop-culture themes
• sarcastic quotes hidden in pretty florals
• classic artwork recreations
• cozy cottages and cottagecore designs
• fantasy worlds and mythical creatures
• cityscapes and travel-themed pages
• spooky and horror-themed illustrations
• inspirational quotes

Basically, if you can imagine it, someone has turned it into a coloring book for adults. It’s a whole universe of options.

A Surprisingly Social Hobby

Coloring isn’t just a solo activity anymore. Adult coloring groups have popped up everywhere: coffee shops, libraries, community centers, and even online spaces where people hang out and color together (yes, coloring group chats exist).

Think of it like a book club, except instead of discussing characters and plot twists, everyone is debating shading styles or proudly showing off their gradient techniques.

Some folks even host “coloring parties,” complete with snacks, music, and a table full of markers to share. It’s wholesome, low-stress, and honestly one of the cheapest ways to hang out with friends.

Coloring brings people together in a simple, comforting way. And in this fast-paced world, that’s a big win.

Adults Need Playtime Too

One of the sweetest parts of this whole coloring revival is that it reminds us adults that we’re still allowed to play. Life gets serious, sometimes too serious, and we forget that simple activities can bring joy.

Coloring gives us permission to relax, to be playful, and to enjoy something simply because it feels good, not because it checks off a productivity box, or makes us some money on the side.

It reconnects us with the carefree joy we felt as kids, and honestly? Adulthood could use a lot more of that energy.

The Supplies are Half the Excitement

Ask anyone who colors and they’ll confess that buying the supplies is almost as fun as coloring itself. Fancy markers. Gel pens that sparkle. Perfectly sharpened colored pencils. Metallic inks. Watercolor pencils. Pastel sets.

Coloring opens the door to the wonderfully addictive world of stationery, and grown-ups are suddenly remembering the thrill of opening a brand-new 64-pack of crayons.

Except now we can afford the good stuff. Unique and independently made coloring books like the 1000Libraries Bookish Coloring Book, specifically for those of us who want everything in our lives to be book-themed. Even our coloring.

The post Why Coloring Books for Adults Are Quietly Becoming a Self-Care Favorite appeared first on Magazine.