In a world where ebooks and online retailers have become increasingly popular, there’s still something special about visiting a brick-and-mortar bookstore. The smell of new books, the chance to discover something new and unexpected or perhaps the joy of finding that perfect title all contribute to the experience!
Whether you’re a book-lover looking for your next great read, or just someone who appreciates the charm of a traditional bookstore, we’ll take a closer look at the enduring appeal of bookstores, and explore some of the best bookstores in Singapore!
Best Book Stores in Singapore
1. Basheer Graphic Books
Source: Basheer Graphic Books via Facebook – Book Store Singapore
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Website: https://www.basheergraphic.com/
Address: 231 Bain St, Singapore 180231
Operating Hours: Mon-Sat, 10am-8pm | Sun, 11am-7pm
Interested in graphic novels? Basheer Graphic Books is a well-known and respected bookstore in Singapore that specialises in graphic books. Located in Bras Basah Complex, the bookstore has been around since 1986 and has a reputation for being a go-to destination for anyone interested in comics, graphic novels, illustration, and design.
Basheer Graphic Books is a must-visit bookstore for anyone interested in graphic books, whether you’re an avid collector or simply curious about the world of graphic literature. With its extensive collection and knowledgeable staff, Basheer Graphic Books is a true gem in Singapore’s cultural landscape.
2. Littered With Books
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Address: 20 Duxton Rd, Singapore 089486
Operating Hours: Mon-Fri, 12pm-8pm | Sat-Sun, 11am-8pm
Littered with Books is an independent bookstore located in the charming neighbourhood of Duxton Hill in Singapore. The bookstore, which opened in 2013, is known for its cosy atmosphere, carefully curated selection of books, and friendly staff.
As the name suggests, Littered with Books is a store that values the tactile nature of books and the joy of discovering a new title. The store is also known for its selection of art and design books, making it a popular destination for artists, designers, and creatives!
3. Woods In The Books
Source: Woods in the Books via Facebook – Book Store Singapore
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Website: https://www.woodsinthebooks.sg/
Address: 3 Yong Siak St, Singapore 168642
Operating Hours: Sun-Mon, 10am-6pm | Wed-Sat, 10am-7pm
A quaint and independent bookstore in Tiong Bahru, Woods in the Books specialises in children’s books and graphic novels. The store is known for its charming and whimsical decor, as well as its carefully curated selection of books. What sets Woods in the Books apart from other bookstores is its emphasis on creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere. Their decor features hand-painted murals, whimsical illustrations, and cosy reading nooks that are sure to captivate both children and adults.
4. Kinokuniya
Source: Kinokuniya via website – Book Store Singapore
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Website: https://kinokuniya.com.sg/
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Even to the uninitiated, Kinokuniya bookstores need no introduction. This hyper-popular and illustrious Japanese chain-bookstore stands as one of the most recognisable and arguably one of the best bookstores. Kinokuniya first opened a flagship store in Singapore on August 8 in 1999. Located on Level 3 of Takashimaya S.C their main store is a favourite destination for many book-lovers locally and from abroad.
Aside from books and magazines, Kinokuniya’s merchandise line-up also showcases an ever expanding range of selective non-book items such as stationery, Blu-ray/DVDs, CDs, collectible toys/figurines, games, novelties, and more!
5. Epigram Coffee Bookshop
Source: Epigram Coffee Bookshop via Facebook – Book Store Singapore
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Website: https://www.epigram.sg/
Address: 39 Keppel Road, Singapore 089065
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun, 11am-7pm
Epigram Coffee Bookshop is a charming and unique independent bookstore run by independent publisher, Epigram Books and offers a range of books on a variety of topics as well as delicious coffee and baked goods.
What sets Epigram Coffee Bookshop apart from other bookstores is its focus on local literature. The store stocks a wide range of titles by Singaporean authors, including works of fiction, poetry, and non-fiction. The store’s cosy and inviting atmosphere, complete with comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi, makes it a popular spot for students, writers, and anyone looking for a quiet place to work or read. Epigram Coffee Bookshop is certainly the perfect place to indulge in your love of books and coffee!
6. The Zall Bookstore
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Address: 501 Orchard Road, Singapore 238880
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun, 10:30am-7:30pm
With two-storeys accompanied by over 30,000 books and articles, nothing quite beats the exploratory feel a reader will experience while browsing through the literary collection at The Zall Bookstore. Offering a diverse range of Chinese literature including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, history, humanities, philosophy and other educational titles, the Zall Bookstore is a treasure trove of Chinese literary works.
7. Grassroots Book Room
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Website: https://chinatown.sg/shop/grassroots-book-room/
Address: 25 Bukit Pasoh Rd, Singapore 089839
Operating Hours: Wed-Mon, 12pm-8pm
Grassroots Book Room is often considered one of the most distinct bookstores in Singapore, and it’s easy to see why. Grassroots Book Room offers a range of cultural events and activities, such as book readings, author talks, and workshops on Chinese calligraphy and other traditional arts. These events provide a great opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals, learn more about Chinese culture, and deepen their appreciation for literature and the arts. With its sizable and unique selection of books, focus on cultural exchange, and community-driven approach, this store is a must-visit for anyone interested in Chinese literature and culture.
8. Times Bookstores
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Website: https://www.timesbookstores.com.sg/
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Operating Hours: Locations
Times Bookstores in Singapore is a top choice for book lovers looking for a wide range of books, stationery and gifts. With a history that dates back over 40 years, Times has established itself as one of the best bookstores in Singapore. Additionally, the staff at Times are knowledgeable, friendly, and always willing to help. They can offer recommendations, and help you find the perfect gift for someone special, or even help you select books for your child’s school curriculum. Another great feature of Times Bookstores is their convenient locations in many outlets in malls around the country!
9. GOHD Books
Source: GOHD Books via Facebook – Book Store Singapore
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Website: https://www.gohd.com.sg/
Address: Online Only
Operating Hours: Online Only
Originally opening in 2009 with a collection of hard-to-find books, tucked away in an equally obscure shophouse along Serangoon Road, they have since had to close down their physical store. Despite this unfortunate news, GOHD Books still operate online and are still the beloved custodians and traders of the rare and curious! If interesting and exotic books are your thing, make sure to check them out. They will no doubt have books and items that will catch your eye!
10. Popular Bookstores
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Website: https://www.popular.com.sg/
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Celebrated homegrown books and stationery store, Popular has become a giant over the many years since they began operation in 1936. Perhaps the largest and most well-known bookstore chain in Singapore, Popular Bookstore offers a stunningly wide range of products from books and magazines to stationery and gifts. All these are also priced very competitively, making Popular one of the best locations to stock up on office supplies as you pick out your next good read! Being one of the largest bookstore chains means that Popular has many outlets, located very conveniently, accessible and truly a one-stop-shop for anything book-related!
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a rare first edition, the latest bestseller, or a local author’s work, from large international chains like Kinokuniya and Popular Bookstores to beloved independent bookstores like Woods in the Books, you’re sure to find it in one of Singapore’s many bookstores!
Now you’re all excited, trotting home with new books in hand, ready to bury yourself into your new novels at the leisure of your home… But reading in a poorly lit room isn’t optimal! Click here to find for yourself 12 of the best lighting shops in Singapore! Or grab a new bookcase to fill with your newfound treasures at these fantastic furniture shops!
• Written by Jeremy Ugon
