Best Bookstores & Libraries in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Dhaka, Bangladesh, Dhaka, Culture & Entertainment, Best Bookstores & Libraries

Best Bookstores & Libraries in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Bengal Boi

1. Bengal Boi

This is a popular bookstore that also offers a cozy cafe atmosphere where you can relax with a book and a drink. It often hosts literary events and art exhibitions, making it a cultural hotspot. It's located in the Dhanmondi area, known for its vibrant community feel.
  • Ambiance: Combination of bookstore and cafe makes it a great spot to unwind.
  • Events: Frequent literary events and exhibitions.
  • Location: Central position in the bustling Dhanmondi neighborhood.
The Bookworm

2. The Bookworm

An iconic bookstore, The Bookworm is renowned for its wide selection of international and local titles. It's a quiet escape in the bustling city, offering a peaceful place to browse and discover new books for all ages.
  • Selection: Extensive range of international and local books.
  • Peacefulness: Provides a tranquil environment away from city noise.
  • Location: Situated in Shahbagh, a vibrant cultural area.
Gyantapas Abdur Razzaq Bidyapeeth

3. Gyantapas Abdur Razzaq Bidyapeeth

This library is an oasis for readers and researchers, equipped with a vast array of books focused on philosophy, social sciences, and humanities. The quiet learning environment is ideal for serious study and intellectual growth.
  • Resource Availability: Excellent selection of books in humanities and social sciences.
  • Study Environment: Peaceful, scholarly atmosphere.
  • Focus: Emphasis on philosophy and academic research.
Pathak Shamabesh

4. Pathak Shamabesh

This bookstore is known for its comprehensive collection of academic and nonfiction books, alongside popular fiction. It's a preferred destination for students and professionals seeking specialized literature. Close proximity to major universities boosts its appeal.
  • Academic Books: Strong focus on academic titles and nonfiction.
  • Customer Base: Popular with students and academics.
  • Location: Near several universities, ideal for quick access.
British Council Library, Dhaka

5. British Council Library, Dhaka

This library offers a great selection of English books and digital resources, ideal for learners and anglophiles. It also provides opportunities for cultural exchange through events and workshops. Its modern facilities and membership services make it user-friendly.
  • English Resources: Extensive English literature and resources.
  • Cultural Events: Hosts workshops and cultural exchange events.
  • Facilities: Modern infrastructure with digital access.
Iqra Library

6. Iqra Library

Known for its vast collection of Islamic books, Iqra Library serves those interested in religious studies and Islamic literature. The tranquil environment is fitting for personal enlightenment and research.
  • Specialization: Focus on Islamic literature and religious studies.
  • Environment: Offers a peaceful setting for reflection.
  • Collection: Comprehensive range of Islamic texts.
Neelkhet Book Market

7. Neelkhet Book Market

This open-air market is famous for its affordable books and textbooks. It's a bustling haven for students on a tight budget. The wide variety of secondhand books attracts all kinds of readers.
  • Affordability: Budget-friendly with secondhand options.
  • Variety: Large selection of academic and casual reading.
  • Atmosphere: Vibrant, lively market setting.
Andarmahal

8. Andarmahal

This bookstore stands out for its children's section and engaging storytelling sessions. It's a delightful place for families with kids who want to foster a love of reading. The warm and welcoming atmosphere encourages family visits.
  • Children's Focus: Special section for children's books and activities.
  • Events: Regular storytelling and interactive sessions.
  • Family-Friendly: Ideal environment for families with children.
Book Zone

9. Book Zone

A comprehensive store that caters to diverse reading tastes, from fiction to specialized subjects. It’s particularly appreciated for its customer service and personalized book recommendations.
  • Diverse Range: Wide variety of genres and topics.
  • Service: Noted for excellent customer support.
  • Recommendations: Offers personalized book advice.
Book Lovers' Refuge

10. Book Lovers' Refuge

This unique bookstore doubles as an exchange hub where readers meet to swap books. It's perfect for backpackers and travelers who want to trade books instead of buying new ones.
  • Book Exchange: Facility to swap books with fellow readers.
  • Traveler Friendly: Ideal for tourists looking to lighten their load.
  • Community: Fosters a community of book-sharing.
Grantha Kutir

11. Grantha Kutir

Focused on preserving and promoting Bengali literature, this bookstore offers a rich selection of Bengali novels, poetry, and historical texts. It's a treasure trove for those interested in local culture and heritage.
  • Bengali Literature: Strong focus on local authors and classics.
  • Cultural Value: Promotes Bengali language and traditions.
  • Heritage: Emphasis on historical significance.
Boi Bichitra

12. Boi Bichitra

Known for its extensive rare and hard-to-find book collection, this bookstore attracts collectors and enthusiasts searching for out-of-print editions. Its niche market appeal makes it a gem for devoted bibliophiles.
  • Rarity: Specializes in hard-to-find books.
  • Collector's Haven: Ideal for book collectors and enthusiasts.
  • Unique Finds: Offers rare editions and out-of-print titles.
Reader's Point

13. Reader's Point

A modern bookstore that provides a digital section with e-books and audiobooks, appealing to tech-savvy readers. The store ensures access to the latest releases.
  • Digital Access: Offers e-books and audiobooks.
  • Latest Releases: Keeps current with new publications.
  • Tech-Friendly: Caters to digital-savvy customers.
Ekushey Boi Mela (Book Fair)

14. Ekushey Boi Mela (Book Fair)

While not a permanent bookstore, this annual event is a major attraction for book lovers occurring every February. It showcases a vast array of new releases and classics from Bangladeshi authors.
  • Annual Event: Major cultural festival for books.
  • Local Authors: Strong emphasis on Bangladeshi writers.
  • Seasonal Attraction: Occurs every February, drawing large crowds.
Amar Ekushey Granthamela

15. Amar Ekushey Granthamela

Complementing the Ekushey Boi Mela, this renowned book fair is dedicated to commemorating the Bengali Language Movement. It serves as a cultural celebration of language and literature.
  • Cultural Significance: Celebrates the Bengali Language Movement.
  • Commemoration: Tribute to local literary heritage.
  • Language Promotion: Focus on Bengali literature and authors.
Big Mela Bookstore

16. Big Mela Bookstore

A key player in the local book retail scene, it features exclusive Bengali titles alongside international bestsellers. Regular promotions and discounts make it a favorite among budget-conscious readers.
  • Exclusive Titles: Offers exclusive Bengali publications.
  • Affordability: Famous for frequent promotions and discounts.
  • Selection: Mix of local and international bestsellers.
Charcha Grantha Bhandar

17. Charcha Grantha Bhandar

As a niche bookstore, it specializes in rare manuscripts and academic texts which appeal to researchers and academics. It is known for a scholarly atmosphere.
  • Manuscripts: Offers rare manuscripts for collectors.
  • Academic Focus: Suited for researchers and academicians.
  • Specialized Collection: Unique inventory of rare texts.
Gyan Bichitra Library

18. Gyan Bichitra Library

A public library offering free access to an extensive collection of reference materials, making it a vital resource for students and researchers.
  • Free Access: Provides resources without charge.
  • Reference Materials: Comprehensive range of study aids.
  • Student-Friendly: Essential resource for educational purposes.
Rubi's Treasure Trove

19. Rubi's Treasure Trove

A quaint used bookstore that delights with its nostalgic charm and affordable prices, perfect for discovering secondhand gems.
  • Secondhand Focus: Mainly offers used books at low prices.
  • Nostalgia: Charming, old-world bookstore setting.
  • Unique Finds: Great for finding rare secondhand editions.
Prothoma Prokashon Bookshop

20. Prothoma Prokashon Bookshop

Famed for publishing and showcasing work from prominent Bangladeshi authors, this bookstore is dedicated to promoting local literature.
  • Local Authors: Highlights Bangladeshi writers’ work.
  • Publishing Role: Functions both as a publisher and a retailer.
  • Culture Promotion: Advocates for local cultural content.
  • These options cater to a wide array of interests and needs, allowing travelers to explore Dhaka's rich literary scene and local culture.