
Best Bookstores & Libraries in Riga, Latvia
1. Lido Riga
A modern and spacious library with a vast collection of books, films, and music. Offers free Wi-Fi and quiet study areas.
- Extensive Collection: Houses over 300,000 items including books, CDs, DVDs, and more.
- Quiet Study Areas: Ideal for tourists who want a peaceful place to work or read.
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected with the world while enjoying your visit.
2. National Library of Latvia
A beautiful architectural masterpiece housing a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and other valuable documents.
- Architectural Beauty: Designed by world-renowned architect Gunnar Asplund.
- Rare Collections: Contains one of the largest collections of books in Latvia.
- Guided Tours: Explore the library with a knowledgeable guide (reservation required).
3. Karogs un Skapis
A charming used bookstore located in the heart of Old Riga. Offers a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of books.
- Used Books: Find affordable second-hand books.
- Cozy Atmosphere: Relax in a warm and inviting setting while browsing through books.
- Centrally Located: Conveniently situated near popular tourist attractions.
4. Ateneium
A historic bookstore and cultural center in Riga. Offers a variety of books, events, and exhibitions.
- Historic Building: Located in a Neo-Renaissance style building from the late 19th century.
- Cultural Events: Attend lectures, concerts, and other cultural events (check schedule).
- Wide Selection of Books: Find books on various subjects in both Latvian and English.
5. Forum Riga
A large shopping mall offering a bookstore, Books for You, with a wide variety of books in multiple languages.
- Mall Convenience: Shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment options all in one location.
- Multiple Languages: Find books in various languages including English, Russian, and Latvian.
- Central Location: Easily accessible by public transportation.
6. University of Latvia Library
A large academic library offering access to a vast collection of books, articles, and other resources.
- Academic Resources: Find scholarly articles, theses, and other research materials.
- Study Spaces: Find quiet spaces to study or work.
- Access with ID: Visitors may need a valid student or staff ID to access certain resources.
7. Bergs Buku un Zinatne
A small and cozy bookstore specializing in books on art, architecture, design, and photography.
- Specialized Selection: Focuses on books related to art, architecture, design, and photography.
- Artful Display: Displays books in a visually appealing way.
- Centrally Located: Conveniently located near popular tourist attractions.
8. Lielupe Library
A modern library offering a wide variety of books, films, and music as well as free Wi-Fi.
- Modern Facilities: Features up-to-date facilities and technologies.
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected with the world while enjoying your visit.
- Quiet Study Areas: Ideal for tourists who want a peaceful place to work or read.
9. Bastejs Publishing House
A bookstore and publishing house offering a wide variety of Latvian literature and other books.
- Latvian Literature: Find a vast selection of Latvian literature.
- Publishing House: Discover new and upcoming books from local authors.
- Centrally Located: Conveniently situated near popular tourist attractions.
10. Riga Central Market
A large market offering a variety of goods including books and newspapers.
- Wide Variety: Find a wide selection of books, newspapers, and other reading materials.
- Authentic Experience: Experience the local culture by visiting this bustling market.
- Affordable Prices: Find affordable books and newspapers at this lively market.
11. Spoken Language Bookstore
A bookstore specializing in language learning resources including books, CDs, and software.
- Language Learning Resources: Find resources to learn or improve your Latvian, Russian, or other languages.
- Diverse Selection: Offers books, CDs, and software for various levels of language learning.
- Convenient Location: Easily accessible by public transportation.
12. Cafebar Biblioteka
A bookstore and café offering a relaxed environment to browse books and enjoy refreshments.
- Bookstore and Café: Combines the pleasure of reading with delicious food and drink.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Enjoy a calm and comfortable environment while reading or studying.
- Centrally Located: Conveniently situated near popular tourist attractions.
13. Mozaiques Bookstore
A bookstore specializing in books on art, design, and photography. Offers a cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff.
- Specialized Selection: Focuses on books related to art, design, and photography.
- Cozy Atmosphere: Relax in a warm and inviting setting while browsing through books.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Staff is knowledgeable and can provide recommendations based on your interests.
14. Books for Children
A bookstore specializing in children's books. Offers a wide variety of books in multiple languages.
- Children's Books: Find books for kids of all ages.
- Multiple Languages: Books available in various languages including English and Russian.
- Centrally Located: Conveniently situated near popular tourist attractions.
15. Zelta Ruze Bookstore
A charming bookstore located in a historic building. Offers a wide variety of books including fiction and non-fiction.
- Historic Building: Located in a beautiful Art Nouveau building.
- Wide Selection: Find books on various subjects including fiction and non-fiction.
- Centrally Located: Conveniently situated near popular tourist attractions.