Best Bookstores & Libraries in Amsterdam, Netherlands
1. Athenaeum Bibliotheek
A historic library with a stunning interior and a collection of rare books dating back to the 16th century.
- Historic Significance: One of Amsterdam's oldest libraries, it was established in 1838.
- Rare Book Collection: Houses a collection of over 200,000 books.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours in English for visitors.
2. Boekhandel Vincey
A cozy bookstore specializing in second-hand books, featuring a vast selection of literature and a unique atmosphere.
- Second-Hand Books: Sells both used and new books.
- Unique Atmosphere: A charming, rustic interior creates a welcoming ambiance.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Staff are passionate and knowledgeable about literature.
3. Openbare Bibliotheek Amsterdam (OBA)
A modern public library with a vast collection of books, a children's library, and a music library.
- Modern Infrastructure: Designed by the award-winning architect Rem Koolhaas.
- Diverse Collections: Offers a variety of collections catering to different interests.
- Events and Workshops: Regularly hosts events, workshops, and concerts for visitors.
4. Tropenbibliotheek Amsterdam (TBA)
A multicultural library with a focus on literature from Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean.
- Multicultural Focus: Specializes in literature from diverse cultures.
- Interactive Learning: Provides interactive learning opportunities for visitors.
- Language Courses: Offers language courses and workshops.
5. Waterstones De Bijenkorf
A luxury bookstore located within the iconic De Bijenkorf department store, offering a wide range of English books.
- Luxury Experience: Part of the high-end De Bijenkorf department store.
- English Books: A large selection of English books is available.
- Convenience: Located in the city center, making it easily accessible.
6. Boekhandel Jan Hanlo
A bookstore specializing in art and design books, offering a unique selection of both local and international titles.
- Art and Design Focus: Specializes in art, architecture, photography, and design books.
- International Titles: Stocks a variety of international titles.
- Expert Advice: Staff members are experts in the field, providing valuable insights.
7. Boekhandel Het Kruidnagelen
A quirky bookstore located in a historic building, offering an extensive collection of literature and antique books.
- Historic Building: Located inside a beautiful historic building.
- Extensive Collection: Has an extensive collection of books, both old and new.
- Antique Books: Features a section dedicated to antique books.
8. Boekhandel Lemaitre
A bookstore known for its wide range of philosophy and literature titles, along with a cozy atmosphere.
- Philosophy Focus: Specializes in philosophy, religion, and literature.
- Cozy Atmosphere: Featuring a warm, inviting atmosphere for visitors.
- Rare Finds: Offers rare and out-of-print books.
9. Boekhandel A. Oostinde
A bookstore specializing in music, theater, dance, and film, catering to both professionals and enthusiasts.
- Arts Focus: Specializes in books related to music, theater, dance, and film.
- Professional Resources: Stocks resources for professionals in the arts industry.
- Diverse Selection: Offers a diverse selection of books, including both local and international titles.
10. Boekhandel Van Het Rechte Pad
A bookstore with an emphasis on spirituality, personal growth, and self-help literature.
- Spiritual Focus: Specializes in books about spirituality, self-help, and personal growth.
- Expert Advice: Staff members are knowledgeable and can provide advice.
- Inclusive Selection: Offers an inclusive selection of spiritual and self-help books from various traditions.
11. Boekhandel De Gezellen
A bookstore located in the Jordaan district, offering a variety of new and used books across genres.
- Location: Located in the charming Jordaan district.
- New and Used Books: Sells both new and used books across various genres.
- Community Hub: Serves as a community hub for book lovers in the Jordaan area.
12. Boekhandel Papeschi
A bookstore focusing on graphic design and illustration, with a selection of both local and international titles.
- Graphic Design Focus: Specializes in books about graphic design and illustration.
- International Titles: Stocks a variety of international titles.
- Expert Advice: Staff members are experts in the field, providing valuable insights.
13. Boekhandel De Slegte
A bookstore known for its extensive selection of academic books, catering to students and scholars.
- Academic Focus: Specializes in academic books across various disciplines.
- Student Discounts: Offers student discounts on selected items.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Staff members are knowledgeable about academic subjects.
14. Boekhandel Broese
A bookstore specializing in books for children and young adults, with an extensive collection of both Dutch and English titles.
- Children's Literature Focus: Specializes in children's literature.
- Dual Language Selection: Offers a selection of Dutch and English books for young readers.
- Reading Workshops: Hosts reading workshops and storytime sessions for children.