Public libraries are not just buildings filled with books; they’re vibrant hubs of learning, research, and discovery that cater to everyone, young and old. There, you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life, delve into the pages of a good book, or dive into the depths of research.
If you’re getting distracted at home and wanting a break from the mundane of your work-from-home setup, or simply seeking a quiet place to read, these libraries have something for you.
National Library of Malaysia
Located in the heart of KL, the National Library of Malaysia is not just stunning on the outside, with its distinctive roof tiles that resemble the patterns of kain songket (a traditional handwoven fabric), but it’s also packed with a variety of resources and archives that are hard to find at many other libraries, including rare newspapers and magazines from centuries ago.
Address: 232, Jln Tun Razak, Titiwangsa, 50572 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 5pm, closed Monday
Raja Tun Uda Library
Raja Tun Uda Library, nestled in Shah Alam, is a six-story ultra-modern library that boasts comprehensive collections of books alongside modern facilities like virtual reality rooms, a gymnasium, a lounge, a dedicated reading area, an open-air cafe, an auditorium, and more within its large space. There’s also a jogging track around the library, so you can get in some movement between your work sessions.
Address: 42, Jln Kelab Golf 13/6, Seksyen 13, 40100 Shah Alam, Selangor
Opening hours: Daily, 9am – 6pm
Kuala Lumpur Library
Located near Dataran Merdeka in the city centre, the Kuala Lumpur Library houses a wide range of literary resources and documents, as well as an auditorium, exhibition galleries, and a variety of cosy corners with reading pods to curl up quietly with a good book. Additionally, there are enjoyable activities like interactive tables, a games area, and even a movie room for when you need a break.
Address: 1, Jln Raja, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 6.45pm | Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 5pm, closed Monday
Bukit Damansara Community Library
Located steps away from the National Science Centre, the Bukit Damansara Community Library offers an impressive array of materials, including books, magazines, newspapers, and audio-visual resources. Notably, they house a special collection of materials in various languages, such as Chinese, Tamil, and Arabic, catering to a wide spectrum of readers.
Address: Jalan Beringin, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 7pm, closed Monday
KL Library (TTDI branch)
KL Library’s Taman Tun Dr Ismail branch is a part of the city’s public library system, located within the neighbourhood’s community centre. It houses a treasure trove of encyclopaedias, dictionaries, and self-help books catering to a wide range of interests and passions. You’ll also find fun things to do such as interactive tables, a games lounge, and even a movie room.
Address: 31204, Jalan Athinapan, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur,
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday, 10am – 6.45pm | Saturday and Sunday, 10am – 5pm, closed Monday
The Japan Foundation Kuala Lumpur Library
The Japan Foundation Kuala Lumpur’s library space’s collection spans a wide range of books in both English and Japanese, magazines, mangas, music CDs and DVDs, all centered around Japan. It’s a true gem for anyone fascinated with Japanese culture and on a journey of self-learning the language as it also provides educational materials.
Address: 18th Floor, Block B, Northpoint, No. 1, Medan Syed Putra Selatan, 59200 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am – 5.30pm, Sunday and Monday closed
