11 Unique Bookstores And Libraries In Malaysia To Tick Off Your Bookworm Checklist

Eunis Ong

Last updated 21 Mar 2024

Photo Credits: @joyce19921230, @alvin.ccl, @quersyam

Have You Been Reading In 2020?

2020 has been a very unusual year. As we're urged to limit our movements in the public and unable to travel or go about some of our favourite outdoor activities, perhaps it's the perfect time to reignite your passion for reading and pick up that book you've always wanted to read. If you're a book lover in search of a library or bookstore to find your next read, check out our list of 11 unique libraries and bookstores in Malaysia (mostly within Klang Valley) that will hopefully inspire you and bring you joy!

Note: Some of these locations may be closed due to the CMCO - check the operating hours/status on their official websites or social media before heading over to avoid disappointment!

11 Beautiful Bookstores And Libraries In Malaysia

1. BookXcess Gurney Paragon, Penang

Home to the tallest and longest bookshelf in Southeast Asia (that stands at a towering height of 3-storeys tall), BookXcess Gurney Paragon is dubbed 'the house of a million stories', housing an impressive collection of quality books available at 50 - 80% off retail price.

Besides towering bookshelves, there's also a cafe and lots of cosy reading spaces dotted across the bookstore. There's even a children's section with ocean views and a selection of augmented reality (AR) books that provides an immersive, interactive reading experience for the little ones. The 26,000 sqft space is definitely a must-visit for book lovers visiting Penang - make sure you save some space in your luggage to bring home some books!

Address: 163D-7.06-7.16 & L8.02-8.-5, Gurney Paragon, Persiaran Gurney, 10250 George Town, Pulau Pinang

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2. Junk Bookstore, KL

KL's Junk Bookstore is a long-standing secondhand bookstore (and the largest one in Malaysia) packed with literary gems and antique titles that are hard to be found elsewhere. While its aesthetics cannot be compared to the fancy new bookstores in Malaysia, this three-layered store exudes a nostalgic old-school charm that will draw you in.

The ambiance is warm and cosy, and books are neatly arranged on racks, wrapped in clear plastic. Don't be fooled by its name and the fact that it's a secondhand bookstore, most of the books here are far from junk, and can be considered as treasure instead - be prepared to pay expensive prices for antique titles that are no longer being produced.

If you're a book lover in search of treasure, set aside a few hours of your time and come by with patience (much needed to skim through racks and racks of books).

Address: 78, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur

3. Lit Books, PJ

The folks behind Lit Books (a Malaysian couple!) believe that "good books light up our world" - thus the name of this independent bookstore (besides also being short for literature). Lit Books specializes in English literary titles and houses a curated collection of tasteful fiction and non-fiction books from the classics to contemporary reads and new releases.

Many patrons have expressed enjoying conversations with the well-read owners at the store, who are extremely friendly and happy to guide you on your book selection. Do your browsing and reading at your own pace - you can even grab a coffee at the little drinks bar if you're feeling like one.

Address: 12, P-1-11 Level, 1, Persiaran Tropicana, 47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor

4. Monalisa Bookstore, Bukit Jalil

Decked in pastal colours and dreamy hues, this beautiful bookstore in Bukit Jalil doubles up as a cafe! The triple-storey Monalisa Bookstore is an oasis for book lovers, and offers an extensive collection of curated (and mostly imported) books including a full floor dedicated to children's books (only open on Fridays and weekends).

If you're a bookworm in need of some cosy me time, head over, get a book, and go over it at your own pace over a cup of coffee or dessert.

Address: Bukit Jalil F-8-1 Pusat Perdagangan Jalan Persiaran Jalil, 1, 57000, Kuala Lumpur

5. Book Xcess Kong Heng, Ipoh

We have 3 Book Xcess outlets on this list, but this one's our personal favourite. Nestled in the charming Kong Heng Square in Ipoh, Book Xcess Kong Heng only opened its doors in April 2019, and has since become a lovely addition to the quirky area.

What makes it so unique is the fact that this space used to be home to one of Ipoh's busiest banks! Lovingly transformed into a brand-new bookstore, books are today placed within the old bank's vaults and safety deposit boxes.

Much of the bank's elements that date back to the 1980s remain preserved in their original state, providing visitors with a unique experience. The basement of the bookstore accommodates the Yasmin Kong Heng museum, where fans of the late Yasmin Ahmad can pay a visit while in the area.

Address: 91, Jalan Sultan Yusof, 30000 Ipoh, Perak

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6. Raja Tun Uda, Shah Alam

If you think there aren't beautiful public libraries in Malaysia, you probably haven't been to the Raja Tun Uda Library in Shah Alam! Located right next to a golf course and overlooking a beautiful lake, Perpustakaan Raja Tun Uda is a 6-floor library that has more than books. In fact, other facilities here include a 3D theatre, multi-sensory 6D theatre, an open-air cafeteria with views of the lake, spacious workstations, cosy reading areas, and even a children's zone for the little ones!

While the book selection here isn't very extensive, it's a great work-friendly space if you're looking for somewhere to get things done. Pssst, do note though that as this is a public library, be sure to dress appropriately.

Address: Jalan Kelab Golf 13/6, Seksyen 13, 40100 Shah Alam, Selangor

7. Little Giraffe Story House, Cheras

Little Giraffe Story House looks nothing like the libraries you're used to - in fact, it's housed in a wooden kampung house painted with cheerful colours of pastel green and pink! The place oozes a rustic charm, and is filled with shelves of books, large windows that drench the space in warm sunlight, lots of cosy reading corners, and a little cafe.

The book collection here mostly comprises of books for children (available in English, Chinese, and Bahasa Malaysia, though mostly Chinese) - if you're looking for a place to inculcate reading in your child, consider heading over to spend some time here!

Address: 114, Jalan 15, Batu 11 Cheras, 43200 Cheras, Selangor.

8. L45 Kurau Community Library, Bangsar

Tucked in a quiet corner of Bangsar, L45 Kurau Community Library is a hidden gem that's open only 3 days a week, and 3 hours each day. The library has an unassuming cement exterior complete with a vertical garden, and blends in perfectly with the other houses in the residential area.

The community library was a former home that was transformed (apparently by an anonymous mysterious man) into a quaint reading nook that can fit only about 6 - 7 people in a go. Despite its size, it's home to an impressive collection of books, mostly on arts and design.

Address: 45, Lorong Kurau, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur

9. Rumah Attap Library & Collective, KL

Though small, Rumah Attap Library & Collective strives to be more than just a space filled with books. Housed in a row of restored shophouses in Kampung Attap (on the 3rd floor of Zhongshan Building), this minimalistic space is small yet brightly lit and homey, and feels more like someone's house than a library.

Besides being a space for book lovers to exchange books, thoughts, and knowledge, regular events like book readings, talks, workshops, and small-scale events are held here.

Note: Though the library is temporarily closed until further notice to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, you may get updates on its reopening or events on their Facebook page.

Address: 84, Jalan Rotan, Kampung Attap, 50460 Kuala Lumpur

10. Tintabudi, KL

Another gem located housed in the Zhongshan Building in Kampung Attap, Tintabudi is a modest space that we have a soft spot for. This humble independent bookstore is not huge and fancy like some of the bigger ones on this list, with a book collection that may only appeal only to a very specific group of readers.

The selection of books here aren't for everyone, and mostly cover the fields of humanities, literature, poetry, philosophy, history, and arts (you can browse through their catalog on their official website) - they also have a great collection of Malay-centric books that are hard to find elsewhere. Pop by to see if you'll find a read that will delight you, or simply soak in the atmosphere dedicated for those with a passion for books.

Address: 80, Jalan Rotan, Kampung Attap, 50460 Kuala Lumpur

11. Book Xcess Sunsuria Forum, Shah Alam

Ready for one last impressive Book Xcess store? Enter Book Xcess Sunsuria Forum, home to a book tunnel and towering circular bookshelf! This bookstore gives off a vibe that's pretty similar to the popular Starfield Library in Seoul, if you've ever been there or heard of it.

Step into a world dedicated to bookworms in this space that houses over 500,000 discounted books covering a wide range of topics! Besides being a great space to browse for your next book, you can also find comfortable workstations, cosy reading spaces, a mini maze for children, and even a cafe where you can get a croissant and coffee if you're feeling like it.

Address: SB-1, Sunsuria Forum, No.1, Jalan Setia Dagang AL U13/AL, Seksyen U13, Setia Alam, 40170 Shah Alam, Selangor

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