Best Bookstores & Libraries in Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
1. National Library of Tanzania
A vast repository of knowledge with a diverse collection, including local and international books. Offers research facilities.
- Extensive Collection: Holds over 150,000 items in various formats
- Research Facility: Equipped with research materials and experts to guide visitors
- Location: Centrally located in the heart of Dar es Salaam
2. GoDown Arts Centre Library
An arts-focused library with a unique blend of books, art exhibitions, and workshops. Offers a creative space for visitors.
- Artistic Focus: Collections cater specifically to arts, culture, and literature
- Workshops & Events: Regular workshops and art exhibitions make it a dynamic space
- Community Engagement: Serves as a hub for artists, writers, and creative minds
3. Uhuru Torch Bookshop
A long-standing bookstore with a rich collection of books by African authors. Known for its focus on promoting African literature.
- Promotion of African Literature: Specializes in works by African writers
- Long-standing History: Operating since the 1970s, it has a rich history and legacy
- Community Impact: Helps in preserving and promoting African culture and heritage
4. Africa Book Centre
Offers a wide range of books, including international titles. Known for its knowledgeable staff who can guide visitors.
- International Selection: Sells books from around the world
- Knowledgeable Staff: Staff members are well-versed in book recommendations
- Central Location: Located in a bustling area of Dar es Salaam, making it easily accessible
5. Mlimani City Library
A modern library offering digital resources, study rooms, and a comfortable reading environment.
- Digital Resources: Includes e-books, audiobooks, and online databases
- Study Rooms: Provides quiet spaces for focused study or research
- Modern Facilities: Embraces the latest technology to improve user experience
6. Taifa Books
Sells a diverse range of books, including academic texts and fiction. Known for its reasonable prices.
- Diverse Selection: Stocks a wide variety of book genres
- Reasonable Prices: Offers affordable prices for books
- Convenient Location: Situated in a busy commercial area, making it easily accessible
7. Kivukoni Fish Market Library
A unique library located within a fish market. Offers books on various topics while providing a local experience.
- Local Experience: Visitors can explore Tanzanian culture and daily life
- Diverse Collection: Collections cover various topics, including literature, history, and science
- Central Location: Located in a bustling fish market, adding to its charm
8. Mwenge Art & Craft Centre Library
An arts and crafts center with a library featuring books on art, culture, and design. Offers workshops to learn new skills.
- Art & Craft Focus: Libraries cater specifically to art, culture, and design
- Workshops: Regular workshops allow visitors to learn new skills
- Unique Setting: Surrounded by vibrant art and craft stalls, providing an immersive experience
9. Biblionef Tanzania Library
A mobile library that visits various schools in Dar es Salaam. Offers a unique opportunity to engage with children.
- Mobile Library: Travels to different schools, making books accessible
- Engaging Children: Promotes literacy and learning among children
- Accessibility: Reaches communities that may not have regular access to books
10. Bookworm Café & Library
A cozy café and library offering a comfortable space for reading, studying, or working. Known for its selection of books.
- Comfortable Environment: Provides a relaxing atmosphere for visitors
- Wide Selection: Stocks books on various topics
- Café Services: Offers coffee, tea, and light snacks
11. Tembo House Library
A library located in a historic building, offering a unique blend of old and new books. Known for its quiet reading rooms.
- Historic Setting: Set in a beautiful historic building
- Quiet Reading Rooms: Provides peaceful spaces for quiet reading and study
- Blend of Books: Offers a mix of classic and contemporary titles
12. Mlimani City Mall Library
A modern library located within a shopping mall. Offers digital resources, study rooms, and a comfortable reading environment.
- Modern Facilities: Embraces the latest technology to improve user experience
- Shopping Mall Location: Included in a popular shopping destination, making it easily accessible
- Study Rooms: Provides quiet spaces for focused study or research
13. JK Nyerere Foundation Library
A library dedicated to the works of Julius K. Nyerere and Tanzanian history. Offers research materials on these topics.
- Focus on Tanzania's History: Collections centered around Tanzania's history and its founding father
- Research Facility: Equipped with research materials and experts to guide visitors
- Historical Significance: Helps preserve the legacy of Tanzania's first president
14. Mara Regional Library
A regional library offering a diverse collection of books. Known for its focus on promoting literacy and education.
- Diverse Selection: Stocks books on various topics
- Promotion of Literacy: Promotes literacy and learning among the community
- Central Location: Located in a central area, making it easily accessible
15. Tanzania National Parks Library
A specialized library focusing on Tanzanian wildlife and conservation. Offers resources for research and education.
- Focus on Wildlife & Conservation: Collections centered around Tanzania's wildlife and conservation
- Research Facility: Equipped with research materials and experts to guide visitors
- Environmental Education: Promotes awareness and understanding of Tanzania's wildlife and conservation efforts