Are you looking for a new reading spot in KL but want to avoid the usual, like your home or the library? Don’t worry, because we’ve collected these few unique and underrated spots that you can add to your outing list!
With these undiscovered treasures, we can accommodate your needs whether you’re looking to go on a book date, visit several bookshops, or spend a peaceful day with books. Here are the top 10 picks of bookshops to enjoy during a slow-paced day:
1. Lit Books
Run by a husband and wife duo who are both former journalists and ardent bibliophiles, Lit Books is well known for its literary titles. With its wide space and ample natural lighting, the bookshop specialises in English literary titles and is home to a beautifully curated collection of fiction and non-fiction, ranging from the classics to contemporary reads and new releases. There would also be book events held at the store from time to time, so be sure to check that out as well. You can even grab a coffee at the little drinks bar if you would like your books to be accompanied by a cup of caffeine!
Opening Hours: 1pm-7pm (Closed on Monday)
Address: P-1-11 Tropicana Avenue, 12, Persiaran Tropicana, 47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
2. Riwayat
This charming little bookshop, set in an old, rundown, pre-war building, carries fiction and non-fiction books in English and Malay, which cover a range of genres. Literature, culture, history, poetry, biographies, and travelogues—you name it, they got it! They also have a selection of rare books, magazines, and a selection in the store that is dedicated to German, Spanish, and French translations of selected local books. If you’re ever on the lookout for rare books that can’t seem to be found online, do check out this bookshop in Chinatown!
Opening Hours: 11am-7pm
Address: 34, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.
3. Tintabudi
Prefer used books as well? Well, you’re in the right spot! Here at Tintabudi Bookshop, they don’t only sell new books; they also have used, secondhand books for those who are interested. With its warm and inviting atmosphere and slow music in the background, you can dwell in this cosy store, accompanied by your favourite books, ranging from classic Malay and English literature, in numerous genres to suit readers’ tastes!
Opening Hours: A-1-13, TTDI Plaza, Jalan Wan Kadir 3, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.
4. Sunda Shelves
Founded by conservationist Surin Suksuwan and biodiversity consultant Dylan Jeffrey Ong, Sunda Shelves is a friendly neighbourhood bookshop that specialises in providing books related to the environment, nature, natural history, culture, and travelling. According to the owners, it is currently the only nature-themed bookshop in Peninsular Malaysia.
If you’re looking for a place to spend a calm day, this bookshop is the place to go, as it has a commendable selection of new, pre-owned, and rare books, as well as a cafe serving beverages and snacks. Besides having reading items for adults, they also have a selection of books for children and a merchandise section, ranging from mugs, bags, and greeting cards adorned with nature-themed artwork!
Opening Hours: 11am-6pm (Closed on Monday)
Address: No.32, 1st floor, Jalan SS 20/10, Damansara Kim, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
5. Books n Bobs
Having both virtual and physical stores selling books, Books n Bobs provides a wide selection of used books to choose from. Here you’ll find novels, children’s books, self-help books, reference books, and more. And the best part is, there isn’t any staff in this store, as Books n Bobs is a self-service bookshop, where customers would browse and pick the books and scan a QR code to pay for their books. You are even able to donate your old books at the store, and as an exchange, you would be given discounts for your next purchase or a ‘buy one, free 1’ promotion at Forest Cafe!
Opening Hours: 9:30am-6:30pm
Address: 37, Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.
6. Sunmag
Sunmag Bookstore is located in the KL Sentral station but is not known by many, as it is tucked away in the inner part of the station. Ranging from a variety of genres, such as fiction, non-fiction, biographies, and many more, for an extremely low price! A well-known novel like The Insurgent, secondhand but in perfectly good condition for only about RM10? A steal! They also have numerous design, fashion, and architectural books, which are all pre-loved but still in tip-top condition! Make sure to stop by here if you’re ever at the KL Sentral station.
Opening Hours: 11am-7:30pm
Address: DEPARTURE HALL, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.
7. Gerakbudaya
Opting for a bookshop with an indie vibe to it? You’re at the right place, then! Gerakbudaya Bookshop isn’t just your regular store; it’s also a community hub with a calm and quiet atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing weekend surrounded by your favourite reads. The store has a selection of books ranging from local and international works, including signed prints from local artists. The interior of the store gives a glimpse into the local literary scene, with vibes of culture and creativity! Gerakbudaya is also a perfect hangout spot, where it frequently plays host to forums and discussions.
Opening Hours: 10am-7pm
Address: 2, Jalan Bukit 11/2, Seksyen 11 Petaling Jaay, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
8. BooKu
BooKu is a haven for book enthusiasts, where they’re dedicated to fostering a reading culture in Malaysia. Emphasising writing and reading, they aim to create a community where everyone can appreciate the importance of books and reading. Besides books, they also sell local gifts and art to support the local community, such as candles, perfumes, stationery, and accessories, where you can shop for yourself or your loved ones! Another aim of BooKu is to give life to old books at an affordable price. Similar to Sunmag, they also sell famous novels with a price as low as RM10 to RM20! There is also a spacious seating area that is provided at the store to accommodate more readers at the place.
Opening Hours: 11am-8pm
Address: GM-3-43a, 2, Jalan Robertson, GM3-44, Bukit Bintang, 50150 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur.
9. Junk Bookstore
Junk Bookshop is a long-standing secondhand bookshop and also the largest one in Malaysia! The store is packed with literary gems and antique titles that are hard to find in other bookshops. Despite its rundown building aesthetic, which can’t be compared with fancy bookstores, this three-layered building portrays a nostalgic old-school vibe that will draw you in. Junk Bookshop has a warm ambiance, with books wrapped neatly in plastic covers and arranged neatly on the shelves. Also, make sure to clear your schedule before heading here, as a book lover in search of treasures might be time-consuming!
Opening Hours: 8:30am-3pm (Closed on Sunday)
Address: 78, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.
10. Little Giraffe Story House
Last but not least, this place is more of a library than a bookshop. Little Giraffe Story House is nothing like the libraries you’ve visited; instead, it’s set in a wooden kampung house painted with quirky colours of pastel green and pink! This place gives off a rustic charm and is filled with rows of books, numerous cosy reading nooks, and also a little cafe as well. The book collection here is mostly for children, but if you’re looking for a place to bring out your inner child, do give this place a chance!
Opening Hours: 10am-6pm (Closed on Wednesday)
Address: 114, Jalan 15, Batu 11 Cheras, 43200 Cheras, Selangor.
As we’re too focused on our fast-paced lives, we should just take a step back and relax from our bustling lives and enjoy the presence of ourselves along with the books instead. So, make sure to add these reading spots for your next study date or outing to the city!
Tiana contributed to this article.
