The word “library” often conjures images of a peaceful environment for book lovers—white walls adorned with endless shelves of reading materials. However, did you know there are many interesting and fun libraries in Singapore that are conducive to learning and aesthetically pleasing?
From sleek and modern designs to quaint and charming atmospheres, libraries in Singapore offer a diverse range of environments to cater to every individual’s preferences.
Read on as we explore the seven best public libraries in Singapore for literary enthusiasts!
Note: This list is strictly not in order.
1. Bishan Public Library
Bishan Public Library takes the cake as one of Singapore’s coolest libraries, thanks to its eye-catching design that is reminiscent of a treehouse with its colourful pods and unique features. Skylights and vibrant glass play tricks with the daylight, making it feel like you’re chilling under a groovy tree canopy.
Designed by Look Architects, this four-storey library with a basement and roof terrace boasts 250,000 book titles, inviting patrons to explore its curated collection. The exterior, adorned with cantilevered pods and stained glass panels, adds a charismatic touch, while cosy reading pods and the delightful D.I.G Dining In Garden on the first floor offer a welcoming and immersive experience. Whether you’re a book enthusiast or someone seeking a unique library in Singapore, Bishan Public Library is a must-visit destination.
Customer Reviews
See Ray Ng
The basement for the children books is massive. There are ample power sources and desks for you to study. This library although not a regional library has quite good facilities. Definitely recommend it as a good place to study
Ruhul Amin
Such a big and nice library. Plenty of books collection. Spacious space. nice and clean area. Good staff.
Edy Tan
Quiet with many chairs, tables and sofa available. A cosy place to do some reading
Website: https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/visit-us/our-libraries-and-locations/libraries/bishan-public-library
Contact: 6332 3255
Location: 5 Bishan Pl, #01-01, Singapore 579841
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10 AM – 9 PM
2. Library of Botany & Horticulture
Nestled in Singapore Botanic Gardens, the Library of Botany and Horticulture, established in 1875 and renovated in 2005, is a leading institution with over 120,000 curated items, including 30,000 books. Despite a no-loan policy, it welcomes the public, providing a comfortable space for immersive reading. Serving as a vital resource for global researchers, students, and Gardens staff, the library offers a unique twist on a typical library by offering botanical scenery.
Renowned for its rich history, extensive collection, and open accessibility, the Library of Botany and Horticulture is considered by many as the best library in Singapore, offering a unique blend of tradition and modern amenities, making it an essential library to look out for!
Customer Reviews
Azrin Az
Small quaint and quiet library next to a laboratory. Limited amount of seats for reading and working. Good selection of books and some interesting exhibits.
Mark Chan
An oasis of cool and some interesting science and botany reading
Eric Chin
Nice library
Website: https://www.nparks.gov.sg/sbg/research/library-of-botany-and-horticulture
Contact: 6471 9942
Location: 1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259569
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
3. Library@Orchard
Located in the central area of Singapore in Orchard Gateway, library@orchard stands out as one of the best public libraries in Singapore since its 2014 opening. Boasting a wealth of resources in lifestyle, design, and applied art, it serves as an ideal haven for shoppers exploring the city. The library’s distinctive Studio and Loft areas, adorned with aesthetically pleasing interiors and curved bookshelves, create a welcoming atmosphere. Beyond its visually appealing design, library@orchard emphasises inclusivity, positioning itself as a learning hub for all and championing the belief that design is for everyone.
Customer Reviews
Skye Cai
Very clean and modern library. Not the biggest but one of the most delicately designed National Library. Very fashionable and with a reasonable amount of space available. Good for a quick rest. At the entry there is space to park the bicycle. Easily accessible and quiet. Small exhibition available that’s within one of the open space area.
INR
A library located within a mall, offering a vast collection of books for on-site reading without the need for membership registration. The bookshelves have a unique design, and the reading area is comfortable with plenty of seating. The staff on duty is very friendly.
Chen Aifei
Library for the public, this library is on the 3rd floor of Orchard Gateway Mall. OK for tourists too. You can enter for free & you can read the books there. There is a place to read. No food & drinks. The place is good for an aesthetic photo spot. The bookshelves are arranged very well. Many people come here just to take photos
Website: https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/visit-us/our-libraries-and-locations/libraries/library-orchard
Contact: 6332 3255
Location: 277 Orchard Road, #03-12 / #04-11 orchardgateway, Singapore 238858
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11 AM – 9 PM
4. National Library
The National Library is undoubtedly the most well-known library in Singapore – and for good reason! The library offers a multifaceted experience beyond conventional book reading. This award-winning architectural marvel, comprising the Central Public Library and the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library across 16 floors, is a cultural hub. The latter boasts an extensive collection of Singapore’s literary heritage, while the upper levels provide serene study spaces with panoramic city views.
Situated in Bugis, this library serves as a spacious and quiet haven, complemented by nearby dining options. The National Library excels in catering to diverse needs, making it a distinguished cultural and intellectual destination. If you’re looking for a library in Singapore that combines modern amenities with a rich historical and cultural ambience, the National Library is the ideal choice.
Customer Reviews
Dru Lu
Super impressed with the renovated library. The highlight of it is definitely the children’s biodiversity library by SEA aquarium. The very unique design of underwater world and all brand new books!! Quite crowded on the weekend but have children books of all ages and languages. They also provide cushions for you to sit on the floor.
David Moh
This is the largest public library in Singapore. It has multiple levels of libraries, serving the different library needs of the public. The Central Library has completed its renovation and is now opened to the Public. It is now more spacious and updated with interactive onsite exhibits.
Wai Peng Chan
The central library reopens on 12 Jan 2024. Nice! It has new areas such as lepak corners, Singapore murals collection, immersive zone, alcove corners, etc. I especially like the Children’s Biodiversity Library at Level B1, the books are really new! The reading zone is spacious. There is also a huge magazine collection. All brand new!
Website: https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/home
Contact: 6332 3255
Location: 100 Victoria Street, Singapore 188064
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10 AM – 9 PM
5. Yishun Public Library
Renovated in 2018, the Yishun Public Library stands out as one of the finest libraries in Singapore. The library offers a collection of over 125,000 books. Reflecting the area’s transition from natural plantations to a thriving community, the library’s redesigned interiors feature a guided main pathway with a ceiling light panel.
Offering a seamless blend of traditional and digital experiences, it houses a Virtual Library for digital exploration and a Quiet Reading Lounge with cosy nooks. Situated within the Northpoint City mall, the library embraces the digital age with a Digital Learning Zone and a dedicated Early Literacy section for young readers, making it a convenient and modern library in Singapore for people of all ages to enjoy!
Customer Reviews
Joseph Tan
When I enter this library I am always happy except during lunch time when all those teens just finish their school and making noises. Everydsy 11am i will be there. , toilet is extremely clean. Once 11am , door open , staff will be standing there to greet you. Somehow feels like a VIP 🙂. Thanks
Ira Rodrigues
It’s a great place to spend time here, cozy, Spacious, good lighting and comfortable. Thousands Books are in their collections and the various sections that easy to find, from educational to traveling available. Staff are very helpful 💕
William THC
The Public Library in Yishun is clean and new. Great librarians. Great atmosphere. 👍👍
Website: https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/visit-us/our-libraries-and-locations/libraries/yishun-public-library
Contact: 6332 3255
Location: 930 Yishun Ave 2 #04-01 North Wing Northpoint City, 769098
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11 AM – 9 PM
6. Tampines Regional Library
Built in 2017, Tampines Regional Library is located in Our Tampines Hub. The five-story library embraces natural light through expansive glass walls. The library also offers diverse amenities, including a culinary studio, Pixel Lab makerspace, Tampines heritage exhibition, 200-seat auditorium, indoor playground, and a 700m running track.
Noteworthy is the extensive collection of 32,000 Chinese children’s books, fostering Mandarin literacy. With inclusive features like audiobooks and large prints, the library accommodates diverse readers, complemented by educational facilities such as teaching rooms and 3D printing. Conveniently located and easily accessible by train, Tampines Regional Library caters to all ages with its comprehensive and engaging offerings and is definitely worth mentioning as one of the best public libraries in Singapore.
Customer Reviews
Hoong Wai Wong
Nice cosy place to borrow books, sit down and read. There are also many event spaces like MakeIT and culinary classes for a variety of courses. And study corners… Overall great place for adults, teenagers, children, toddlers…
William Lu
5-storey library from second floor to sixth floor. Can enjoy the soccer match view from library if there is a match playing. The most complete books collection from the library I ever visited. Each section to be each floor. Third floor for kids and it has indoor playground for kids to play as well.
Gurjeevaan Singh
The Tampines Hub Library is an amazing location to read, learn, relax and read again. It’s packed with who lot of goodies for everyone. 5 levels of dedicated areas for kids, children, teens, young adult, adult and seniors. Other than book which what any other library provides is has audio section, video lessons, movies, cooking lessons, kids playground, study area, computer area, venue for events. The list goes on and on. It’s a massive upgrade from the pervious library. The rich design and colour do set the mood for each level you are at. It’s a must to check this place out!!!!
Website: https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/visit-us/our-libraries-and-locations/libraries/tampines-regional-library
Contact: 6332 3255
Location: Lobby H, 1 Tampines Walk, #02-01 Our Tampines Hub, 528523
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10 AM – 9 PM
7. Choa Chu Kang Public Library
The Choa Chu Kang Public Library reopened in 2021 after an expansion and now boasts a revamped interior that was definitely worth the wait! On level 5, the library even features a unique indoor garden that embraces sustainability with a hydroponics showcase and a community wall sharing eco-friendly living tips.
As a pioneer in the Libraries of the Future initiative, it seamlessly integrates physical and digital elements, providing an immersive experience for all ages. The library’s dedication to sustainability is evident throughout its thematic design, incorporating an indoor garden, hydroponics room, and interactive digital tools to raise awareness of environmental issues. This innovative and new library has definitely earned its spot as the best library in Singapore.
Customer Reviews
Charles Wong
Tasteful deco and pleasant colour scheme. Spacious and easy to find seats. Wide selection of travel guides.
Li Xuan Tan
Mr Aziz is kind, polite and very patient. I had a few questions in regards to the library and it’s facilities available, he communicated well to answer any questions I had and was sure to direct me to the relevant people as well. Keep up the good work 😊👍
Elango
Excellent library in Singapore.
Website: https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/visit-us/our-libraries-and-locations/libraries/choa-chu-kang-public-library
Contact: 6332 3255
Location: 21 Choa Chu Kang Avenue 4 #04-01/02 and #05-06, Lot One Shopper’s Mall, 689812
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11 AM – 9PM
Conclusion
Contrary to popular belief, libraries can be fun and vibrant environments that go beyond the conventional image of serene book-lined shelves. In your search for the best public library in Singapore, consider exploring one of the libraries listed in our article! Whether you seek a quiet spot for focused reading, a visually pleasing environment, or an inclusive learning hub, these seven libraries provide diverse options for literary retreats in the heart of Singapore. And while you’re there, why not look into some English writing courses in SG to further enrich your literary journey?