Best Bookstores & Libraries in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

1. Yod Abyssinia Book Center

A well-stocked bookstore offering a wide range of Ethiopian and international titles, including academic texts, fiction, and travel guides.

Diverse Selection: Offers books in various languages like English, Amharic, French, and Italian.
Convenient Location: Centrally located near Bole Road, making it easily accessible to tourists.
Knowledgeable Staff: Experienced booksellers who can help you find specific titles or recommend books based on your interests.

A family-owned bookstore that carries a diverse range of books, including Ethiopian literature and rare titles.

Rare Book Collection: Stocks hard-to-find books, making it an excellent resource for collectors.
Friendly Atmosphere: Welcoming environment where visitors can sit, read, and browse their extensive collection.
Community Engagement: Regular events such as book launches, author signings, and poetry readings contribute to the local literary community.

An independent library offering a unique collection of books, zines, comics, and other printed matter.

Independent Spirit: A self-funded, volunteer-run organization that relies on donations and community support.
Alternative Collection: Focuses on indie publishing, underground music, and counterculture literature.
Community Hub: Fosters a collaborative environment for artists, writers, and activists.

A library offering German literature, language learning materials, and resources on African and Ethiopian studies.

Language Learning Resources: Ideal for travelers looking to learn or improve their German language skills.
Cultural Exchange: Promotes cultural exchange through events, workshops, and collaborations with local organizations.
Accessible Location: Located near the University of Addis Ababa, making it a convenient resource for students.

A library connected to the Museum of Ethiopia, offering books on Ethiopian history, art, and culture.

Historical Resources: Ideal for researchers studying Ethiopian history, archaeology, or anthropology.
Art & Culture Collection: Houses a vast collection of books on Ethiopian art, music, and literature.
Museum Access: Located within the Museum of Ethiopia, providing visitors with easy access to both resources.

The main library for Addis Ababa University, offering a wide range of academic resources and a quiet study environment.

Academic Resources: Ideal for students or researchers seeking academic resources in various fields.
Quiet Study Space: Offers a tranquil environment conducive to studying and research.
Inter-Library Loan Service: Can obtain resources from other libraries within Ethiopia and internationally.

A historical library located inside Menelik II Palace, offering books on Ethiopian history, culture, and art.

Historical Significance: Located within a palace that was the residence of Emperor Menelik II.
Rare Resources: Houses rare books and documents related to Ethiopian history, some dating back centuries.
Art & Architecture: Surrounded by beautiful art and architecture, providing a unique setting for reading and learning.

The main library for Bahir Dar University, offering a wide range of academic resources and a quiet study environment.

Academic Resources: Ideal for students or researchers seeking academic resources in various fields.
Quiet Study Space: Offers a tranquil environment conducive to studying and research.
Inter-Library Loan Service: Can obtain resources from other libraries within Ethiopia and internationally.

The main library for Hawassa University, offering a wide range of academic resources and a quiet study environment.

Academic Resources: Ideal for students or researchers seeking academic resources in various fields.
Quiet Study Space: Offers a tranquil environment conducive to studying and research.
Inter-Library Loan Service: Can obtain resources from other libraries within Ethiopia and internationally.

The main library for Jimma University, offering a wide range of academic resources and a quiet study environment.

Academic Resources: Ideal for students or researchers seeking academic resources in various fields.
Quiet Study Space: Offers a tranquil environment conducive to studying and research.
Inter-Library Loan Service: Can obtain resources from other libraries within Ethiopia and internationally.

The main library for Debre Markos University, offering a wide range of academic resources and a quiet study environment.

Academic Resources: Ideal for students or researchers seeking academic resources in various fields.
Quiet Study Space: Offers a tranquil environment conducive to studying and research.
Inter-Library Loan Service: Can obtain resources from other libraries within Ethiopia and internationally.

The main library for Wollo University, offering a wide range of academic resources and a quiet study environment.

Academic Resources: Ideal for students or researchers seeking academic resources in various fields.
Quiet Study Space: Offers a tranquil environment conducive to studying and research.
Inter-Library Loan Service: Can obtain resources from other libraries within Ethiopia and internationally.

The main library for Adama Science & Technology University, offering a wide range of academic resources and a quiet study environment.

Academic Resources: Ideal for students or researchers seeking academic resources in various fields.
Quiet Study Space: Offers a tranquil environment conducive to studying and research.
Inter-Library Loan Service: Can obtain resources from other libraries within Ethiopia and internationally.

The main library for Mekelle University, offering a wide range of academic resources and a quiet study environment.

Academic Resources: Ideal for students or researchers seeking academic resources in various fields.
Quiet Study Space: Offers a tranquil environment conducive to studying and research.
Inter-Library Loan Service: Can obtain resources from other libraries within Ethiopia and internationally.

The main library for Aksum University, offering a wide range of academic resources and a quiet study environment.

Academic Resources: Ideal for students or researchers seeking academic resources in various fields.
Quiet Study Space: Offers a tranquil environment conducive to studying and research.
Inter-Library Loan Service: Can obtain resources from other libraries within Ethiopia and internationally.