For us book lovers, nothing beats going into a bookstore and browsing for hours. Unfortunately, Singapore has seen a heartbreaking decline in its once-thriving network of bookstores. Over the years, beloved names like Borders, Times Bookstore and BooksActually have shuttered their doors while others move to online platforms.
Keeping bookstores alive are more important than we think. A 2016 research article in Publishing Research Quarterly examines the memories of bookstores. It was revealed that these spaces have played roles in Singaporeans’ lives, are theatres of materiality and are places where social interaction can take place.
Bookstores are going through a change. Along with moving to online platforms, these spaces have evolved to meet the needs of the changing reader with many doubling as cafes, event spaces and art venues. Independent bookstores in Singapore are also providing local writers, illustrators and artistes a rare local stage.
If you’re looking to support your neighbourhood bookshop, we share some independent bookstores to visit this week. Who knows, you might find your next five-star read there.
Independent bookstores to visit in Singapore
Littered with Books
In a conservation shophouse along Duxton Hill, Littered with Books carries titles across various genres from literary to travel guidebooks. Head to the back of the store to find its selection of award-winning children’s books or go up to the second floor for its selection of non-fiction favourites. Looking for a new book? Visit the bookstore’s Instagram page for inspiration.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 12pm – 8pm
Saturday to Sunday, 11am – 8pm
Address: 20 Duxton Rd, Singapore 089486
Contact: 6220 6824
Instagram here.
Book Bar
This bookstore offers a selection of works by Singlit authors and Asian writers around the region. The bookstore is cosy, inviting you to linger. Pick a book and head to the cafe section of the bookstore to enjoy the book with a cup of coffee and some scones. The space also hosts various literary events throughout the month, including book launches, sharing sessions and more.
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, 9:30am – 7pm
Friday to Saturday, 9:30am – 10pm
Sunday, 9:30am – 6pm
Address: 57 Duxton Rd, Singapore 089521
Contact: 8283 0807
Instagram here.
Woods in the Books
Established in 2009, Woods in the Books specialises in illustrated books for the young and young-at-heart. Find a handpicked selection of picture books alongside children’s literature. Currently, the bookstore is available at two locations: Katong and New Bahru.
Opening hours: Monday to Tuesday, 11am – 6pm
Wednesday to Thursday, Sunday, 10am – 7pm
Friday to Saturday, 10am – 8pm
Address: (multiple locations) 46 Kim Yam Rd, #03-06 New Bahru, School Block, Singapore 239351
Contact: 8815 2446
Website here.
Zall Bookstore
Located in the heart of Orchard Road, Zall Bookstore is home to over 30,000 Chinese literary works for both adults and children. Head up the spiral staircase to the second floor for a comprehensive selection of works from China and Taiwan. Beyond books, the space also boasts a cafe and art gallery.
Opening hours: Daily, 11:30am – 8:30pm
Address: SG 501 Orchard Road, Wheelock Place, #02-18, 2388801
Contact: 6232 7549
Website here.
Basheer Graphic Books
One of the oldest bookstores in Singapore, Basheer Graphic Books is run by second-generation owner Abdul Nasser. Here, you’ll find a selection of books and magazines for the creatives, ranging from design and architecture to graphic design and fashion.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 10am – 8pm
Sunday, 11am – 7pm
Address: 231 Bain St, #04-19, Singapore 180231
Contact: 6336 1917
Website here.
Books Beyond Borders
Purchase a book for a good cause at Books Beyond Borders. Here, find a curated selection of pre-loved books. Purchases go towards funding girls education in Nepal. Since 2019, the social enterprise has funded multiple classroom projects while empowering girls to complete secondary education and achieve independence. Beyond books, you’ll also find ethically made gifts from Nepal such as leather passport holders, felt figurines, tote bags and cushions.
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 9pm
Address: 33 Erskine Rd, #01-08 Opp Maxwell Foodcentre/MRT Exit 2, Singapore 069333
Website here.
Bookstore Bommoi
Visit Bookstore Bommoi for its curated selection of books. The bookstore spotlights works by Korean authors and illustrators. While the majority of the books here are Korean, you’ll also find a small selection of English works, including guidebooks, translated works and biographies.
Opening hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 11am – 7pm
Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Address: 61A Neil Rd, Singapore 088893
Website here.
Bonus: Bookshop.sg
Opened earlier this year, this online bookstore was dreamed up by eight local independent booksellers, including CEO of Thryft Eddie Lim, Owner of Basheer Graphic Books Abdul Nasser and Publisher of Epigram Edmund Wee. The bookstore features over 40,000 titles across various genres and languages.
Website here.
Note : The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.