Sure, we’re in the age of digital, but there’s no stopping serious bookworms in their quest to read (plus, who can resist the new smell of books?). From Singaporean writers and local literature to vintage paperbacks and international bestsellers, these online and physical bookstores in Singapore will satiate even the most voracious book nerd.
Best bookstores in Singapore
1. BooksActually
Considered the pioneer of independent bookstores in Singapore, BooksActually also has its own publishing arm with Math Paper Press. No longer at its lovely Tiong Bahru space, it’s now entirely online, so you can get books delivered straight to your home. You’ll find a wide range of literature from classics to emerging local writers, along with poetry, rare editions, and titles on travel, music, film and history.
BooksActually, shop online
2. Woods in the Books
An independent bookshop that takes you back to your childhood, this charming Tiong Bahru spot specialises in picture and illustrated books for all ages. Whether you’re a Tintin fan or you love The Hungry Caterpillar, Woods in the Books will get you nostalgic for the good ol’ days. It’s a pretty perfect place to pick up gifts for expecting mums or children’s birthdays! Those who just want to relive their younger days can also pop by for a quiet hang.
Woods in the Books, 3 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168642
3. GOHD Books
For the discerning bookworm, this online bookstore in Singapore is where you can find rare books. Some are first editions, while others have been around for thousands of years. Pick out literary greats or cast your eye on vintage paperbacks and leather- or cloth-bound antique tomes. You’ll find books on everything from philosophy and spirituality to art and design.
GOHD Books, shop online
4. Huggs-Epigram Coffee Bookshop
Books and brews aren’t the only two noteworthy things that make this place a joy to discover. The Huggs-Epigram Coffee Bookshop also stocks all kinds of local books. Yup, it’s a treasure trove set up by Singapore’s largest independent publisher Epigram Books, in collaboration with Huggs Coffee. The 11m-long bookshelf in itself is a wonder to behold! Titles featured are either written by Singaporean authors, published by local publishing houses or delve into things that are uniquely Singaporean. Best of all, you never know which author or artist you might bump into here.
Huggs-Epigram Coffee Bookshop, #01-01, Urban Redevelopment Authority Centre, 45 Maxwell Road, Singapore 069118
5. Grassroots Book Room
A lovely little space tucked away from the bustle of Keong Saik Road, this independent Chinese bookshop has been around for decades. Swing by to browse through the selection of Chinese history, film, literature and politics, while you enjoy the cosy and calm vibes.
Grassroots Book Room, 25 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089839
6. Zall Bookstore
Looks like bookstores aren’t on the decline, not when this new spot has its home in Wheelock Place. Hailing from Hubei, China, the two-storey shop features over 30,000 books – mostly in Chinese – covering literature, history and philosophy from China and Taiwan. Once you’ve picked out your reads, you can enjoy them at the cafe or head to the art gallery to browse through the exhibition display.
Zall Bookstore, Wheelock Place, 501 Orchard Road, Singapore 238880
7. The Moon
This multi-concept space featuring a bookstore, cafe and event space is a cosy hangout in Chinatown. Expect plenty of sunlight, comfy reading nooks and great coffee here. Of course, it’s home to a variety of amazing books as well. You’ll find everything from limited edition, leather-bound classics to SingLit titles to mind and body books at The Moon.
The Moon, 37 Mosque Street, Singapore 059515
8. Littered with Books
Tucked away in the hip Duxton area is Littered with Books, one of our favourite bookstores in Singapore. This place has fantastic service, competitive prices and a well-edited selection of titles. Take your pick from non-fiction, crime, thrillers, sci-fi, fantasy and children’s books, then read to your heart’s content.
Littered with Books, 20 Duxton Road, Singapore 089486
9. Books Ahoy
Brought to you by the folks behind Woods in the Books, this bookstore caters specifically to young readers. Vibrant pictures and easy-to-read chapter books will transport your little ones to a world of adventure. With a collection of new novels, niche titles and classics, the quaint space is perfect to dive into children’s literature. What better way to pique your little one’s interest in reading?
Books Ahoy, #02-03, Forum The Shopping Mall, 583 Orchard Road, Singapore 238884
10. Basheer Graphic Books
This specialty bookstore for design books and mags is a favourite of many design aficionados. Texts are related to architecture, interior design, animation, fashion and art. Whether you work in design or just love the way these heavyweights look on a coffee table, Basheer Graphic Books has some stunning titles that are arguably works of art in their own right.
Basheer Graphic Books, #04-19, Bras Basah Complex, Block 231 Bain Street, Singapore 180231
11. Kinokuniya
Not only does Kino stock a wide genre of books that somehow manage to be impeccably arranged every time we visit, but it also has widely-anticipated releases and texts in different languages. Perfect if you have all day to peruse the fiction and non-fiction sections; not so perfect if your bank account needs a break.
Kinokuniya, multiple locations including Takashimaya and Bugis Junction
12. Ethos Books
Having been around since 1997, Ethos Books is an independent literary publisher in Singapore. The bookstore puts out fiction, non-fiction and poetry, and takes pride in offering a platform for up-and-coming writers from all backgrounds.
Ethos Books, shop online
13. OpenTrolley Bookstore
You’ll find over 10 million titles imported from the US and UK on this online book peddler. From children’s classics (with really pretty covers) and graphic novels to cookbooks and memoirs, you can say it’s pretty well-stocked – and affordable too! Psst: get free delivery with a minimum purchase of $70.
OpenTrolley Bookstore, shop online
Time to hit up these bookstores in Singapore for an afternoon of reading.
The post Calling all literature lovers! Here are the best bookstores in Singapore for local titles, rare reads and bestsellers appeared first on Honeycombers Singapore.