
Best Bookstores & Libraries in Irkutsk, Russia
1. Book House on the Embankment
A spacious bookstore with a wide selection of Russian and foreign literature, offering a cozy reading corner by the window.
- Unique Collection: Stocks a variety of books in multiple languages.
- Cozy Reading Area: Provides a comfortable space for visitors to read their new purchases.
- Convenient Location: Located on the embankment, offering beautiful views of Angara River.
2. Eastern Literature Museum and Library
A unique museum dedicated to Eastern literature with a large library containing rare books.
- Rare Book Collection: Houses one of the largest collections of Eastern literature in Russia.
- Historical Exhibits: Features exhibits showcasing the history and culture of Eastern literature.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours in multiple languages for visitors.
3. Irkutsk Regional Universal Scientific Library
A vast library with a focus on scientific and educational literature, offering free access to research materials.
- Extensive Collection: One of the largest libraries in Siberia, with over 1.5 million volumes.
- Research Resources: Equipped with modern technology for research and study purposes.
- Free Access: Provides free access to its resources for the public.
4. Literary Museum of Irkutsk
A museum dedicated to local literature and writers, with a small but significant library.
- Local Literature Focus: Dedicated to the works of local authors and writers.
- Historical Exhibits: Features exhibits showcasing the history of literature in Irkutsk.
- Small but Significant Library: Houses a collection of rare and valuable books related to local literature.
5. University Bookstore
A bookstore catering primarily to students and academics, offering textbooks, study materials, and a selection of general literature.
- Textbook Selection: Offers a wide variety of textbooks for various academic fields.
- Student Discounts: Provides discounts for students and staff members.
- Academic Resources: Stocks a variety of academic resources, such as journals and research papers.
6. Sibirsky Knižny Dom
A popular bookstore chain in Siberia with a large selection of books, located in the heart of Irkutsk.
- Variety of Selection: Offers a wide variety of books, including bestsellers and niche titles.
- Centrally Located: Situated in the city center for easy accessibility.
- Bookstore Events: Hosts author events, book signings, and literary discussions.
7. Children's Bookstore
A specialized bookstore offering a wide selection of books for children of all ages.
- Diverse Selection: Provides a wide variety of children's literature, including picture books, chapter books, and young adult novels.
- Children-Friendly Environment: Features a kid-friendly environment with colorful decorations and children's corners.
- Book Recommendations: Offers book recommendations based on a child's age and interests.
8. Irkutsk City Public Library
A public library offering a wide variety of books, magazines, and access to research materials.
- Wide Selection: Offers a vast collection of books in various genres and languages.
- Free Access: Provides free access to its resources for the public.
- Children's Corner: Features a dedicated children's corner with books and activities for young readers.
9. The Book Club
A small but cozy bookstore offering a unique collection of books, including rare and out-of-print titles.
- Rare Titles: Specializes in rare and out-of-print books.
- Intimate Atmosphere: Provides an intimate and cozy atmosphere for reading and browsing.
- Book Club Meetings: Organizes book club meetings and literary discussions.
10. Second-Hand Bookstore
A second-hand bookstore offering a wide variety of used books at affordable prices.
- Affordable Prices: Sells used books at significantly lower prices compared to new ones.
- Unique Finds: Often provides unique finds, such as rare and out-of-print books.
- Community Exchange: Allows customers to exchange their used books for store credit.
11. Bookstore Cafe
A bookstore with a cafe offering coffee, tea, and light snacks, along with a selection of books.
- Cafe Ambiance: Provides a cozy, relaxed atmosphere for enjoying a cup of coffee while reading.
- Book Selection: Offers a selection of books for purchase or browsing.
- Cafe Menu: Serves a variety of coffee, tea, and light snacks.
12. Science Fiction & Fantasy Bookstore
A specialized bookstore focusing on science fiction, fantasy, and horror literature.
- Specialized Genre: Specializes in the genre of science fiction, fantasy, and horror.
- Rare Titles: Stocks a variety of rare and out-of-print titles in the genre.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Employs staff members who are experts in the science fiction, fantasy, and horror genres.
13. The Mystery Bookstore
A specialized bookstore focusing on mystery novels and crime fiction.
- Specialized Genre: Specializes in the genre of mystery novels and crime fiction.
- Rare Titles: Stocks a variety of rare and out-of-print titles in the genre.
- Expert Staff: Employs staff members who are experts in mystery novels and crime fiction.
14. Literature Lovers' Book Club
A book club that meets regularly to discuss and share their love for literature.
- Regular Meetings: Meets on a regular basis to discuss books and literary topics.
- Wide Variety of Books: Reads and discusses a wide variety of books, from classics to contemporary literature.
- Open Membership: Welcomes new members who share a passion for literature.
15. The Poetry Corner
A small bookstore specializing in poetry books and collections.
- Specialized Genre: Specializes in the genre of poetry.
- Rare Titles: Stocks a variety of rare and out-of-print titles of poetry.
- Poetry Readings: Hosts poetry readings and events featuring local and international poets.