Best Bookstores & Libraries in Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta, Indonesia, Jakarta, Culture & Entertainment, Best Bookstores & Libraries

Best Bookstores & Libraries in Jakarta, Indonesia

Aksara Bookstore

1. Aksara Bookstore

A beloved spot for book lovers, Aksara offers a curated selection of local and international titles. It also hosts events and workshops to engage the community. This space solves the challenge of finding diverse and carefully selected book options in Jakarta.
  • Curated Selection: Offers a mix of local and international books.
  • Community Events: Regular workshops and events to engage readers.
  • Cozy Atmosphere: Inviting space to relax and browse.
  • Gift Shop: Unique stationeries and gifts available.
  • Central Location: Easy access in a popular neighborhood.
Gramedia Matraman

2. Gramedia Matraman

One of the largest bookstores in Southeast Asia, Gramedia Matraman provides a vast selection of books and educational materials. This bookstore is ideal for those who need a wide range of topics and titles under one roof. It solves the challenge of needing comprehensive choice and availability.
  • Extensive Book Range: Wide variety of genres and educational materials.
  • Central Location: Conveniently located in Jakarta for easy access.
  • Multimedia Options: Includes magazines, CDs, and learning toys.
  • Budget-Friendly: Regular discounts and promotional offers.
  • Spacious: Large store with ample browsing space.
Books & Beyond

3. Books & Beyond

This store at Pondok Indah Mall focuses on offering the latest English language books. It's perfect for travelers wanting the latest bestsellers. The store addresses the challenge of finding English titles that are sometimes not available elsewhere.
  • English Book Focus: Specializes in the latest English language titles.
  • Mall Location: Conveniently located in a major shopping center.
  • Frequent New Releases: Regular updates with the latest books.
  • Customer Loyalty Program: Offers discounts and rewards for frequent shoppers.
  • Comfortable Seating: Reading nooks for browsing books.
Perpustakaan Nasional Republik Indonesia (National Library of Indonesia)

4. Perpustakaan Nasional Republik Indonesia (National Library of Indonesia)

The largest library in Southeast Asia, featuring millions of books and extensive digital archives. It provides a comprehensive repository of Indonesian culture and history, solving the challenge of accessing massive amounts of information for research or interest.
  • Extensive Collection: Massive local and international resources available.
  • Cultural Insights: Offers insight into Indonesian history and culture.
  • Modern Facilities: Equipped with digital archives and online resources.
  • Public Access: Open to everyone, with no entrance fee.
  • Quiet Environment: Ideal for studying and research.
Post Bookshop

5. Post Bookshop

Known for its small but eclectic collection, with a focus on arts and design books. It stands out in Jakarta for its niche offerings, solving the challenge of finding specialized books not commonly available.
  • Unique Selection: Specializes in niche arts and design literature.
  • Friendly Service: Staff provides personalized recommendations.
  • Community Spot: Hosts small gatherings and events.
  • Hidden Gem: Quaint, lesser-known location adds to the charm.
  • Artistic Vibe: Creative and inspiring atmosphere.
Kinokuniya Plaza Senayan

6. Kinokuniya Plaza Senayan

A Japanese bookstore chain known for its extensive collection of Japanese and international books. This bookstore addresses the needs of both casual readers and those looking for specific Japanese publications.
  • Diverse Language Options: Offers books in Japanese, English, and Indonesian.
  • Manga and Anime: Large section dedicated to manga and anime.
  • Bilingual Staff: Friendly staff who can assist in multiple languages.
  • Multinational Collections: Books and magazines from around the world.
  • Regular Events: Book signings and launches often held here.
Kineruku

7. Kineruku

A cozy bookstore and library combination focusing on indie and local publications. It caters to readers interested in unique and lesser-known literature, solving the challenge of discovering new voices and local authors.
  • Indie Focus: Highlights independent publications and local authors.
  • Personalized Recommendations: Owners provide thoughtful book suggestions.
  • Café Onsite: Offers beverages and a relaxed ambiance for readers.
  • Artistic Installations: Features art exhibitions and installations.
  • Accessible Location: Situated in a vibrant community area.
Reading Room

8. Reading Room

An inviting space that combines a bookstore with a literary café, often hosting cultural events and discussions. It’s designed for the literary socialite, solving the challenge of finding a social yet reading-friendly environment.
  • Literary Café: Serves food and coffee to accompany the reading experience.
  • Cultural Hub: Regularly hosts talks, poetry readings, and workshops.
  • Relaxed Design: Comfortable couches and ample lighting.
  • Diverse Book Selection: Offers both fiction and non-fiction.
  • Unique Concept: Combines hospitality with literary pursuits.
Jakarta Bookhive

9. Jakarta Bookhive

A unique library that operates on the principle of make-the-world-smarter by providing free books and creating a sharing community. This offers a solution for those seeking affordable access to a variety of reading materials in Jakarta.
  • Free Book Exchange: Encourages sharing and exchanging of books.
  • Community Involvement: Built entirely on community contributions.
  • Varied Collections: Books ranging from classics to contemporary.
  • Volunteer-Driven: Operated by passionate book lovers and volunteers.
  • Environmentally Friendly: Promotes reuse and sharing.
Toko Buku Gunung Agung

10. Toko Buku Gunung Agung

A long-standing bookstore in Jakarta with a rich history and wide array of books, stationery, and office supplies. It addresses the challenges of a one-stop shopping experience for books and related items.
  • Historical Legacy: A well-established store with a storied past.
  • Diverse Sections: Extensive range of books and educational supplies.
  • Central Location: Located in major areas for easy access.
  • Generous Retail Space: Offers a spacious environment for exploring.
  • School Supplies: Stocked with school necessities and office materials.
Periplus Kemang

11. Periplus Kemang

An international bookstore chain with a robust selection of English books and magazines, perfect for expatriates and travelers. It solves the issue of accessing English literature and periodicals while staying in Jakarta.
  • Expat Focus: Tailored selection for international readers.
  • Latest Magazines: Offers current issues from around the world.
  • Convenient Locations: Multiple branches for easy access.
  • Customer Service: Friendly assistance for book inquiries.
  • Travel Guides: Wide selection for the globetrotter.
LEAP

12. LEAP

LibRARY ERLANGGA: A modern library concept with interactive learning and multimedia resources, targeted primarily towards school-age children and students. LEAP addresses the need for innovative and engaging learning spaces in Jakarta.
  • Interactive Features: Provides cutting-edge learning tools.
  • Educational Focus: Specializes in study-related resources and books.
  • Child-Friendly: Designed with children and young students in mind.
  • Flexible Space: Offers areas for individual study and group collaboration.
  • Hands-On Activities: Regularly schedules educational programs and activities.
Lontar Foundation Library

13. Lontar Foundation Library

Dedicated to preserving Indonesian literature with a focus on translations and historical texts. Solves the challenge for researchers and cultural enthusiasts to access important works of Indonesian literature.
  • Archival Collection: Includes rare and important literary works.
  • Translation Focus: Showcases Indonesian texts translated to other languages.
  • Research Friendly: Provides resources for academic researchers.
  • Cultural Preservation: Dedicated to maintaining Indonesia's literary heritage.
  • Specialized Study Areas: Quiet study rooms for research needs.
QB World Books

14. QB World Books

Known for its wide selection of imported English books and its curated recommendations. Its appeal lies in providing an expert-picked selection, addressing the need for tailored and quality reading choices.
  • Imported Books: Focus on hard-to-find English imports.
  • Expert Staff: Offers personalized reading recommendations.
  • Boutique Style: Curated and intimate book shopping experience.
  • Regular Author Visits: Often hosts book signings and author events.
  • Niche Titles: Features unique and less mainstream books.
Bookish Library

15. Bookish Library

A hidden gem for book lovers looking for a relaxing atmosphere and a diverse range of books. It provides an environment that solves the problem of lack of peaceful and cozy reading spaces in Jakarta.
  • Tranquil Setting: Calm and peaceful ambiance ideal for reading.
  • Diverse Genres: Books available in a wide range of topics and genres.
  • Membership Perks: Offers membership discounts and borrowing privileges.
  • Cozy Corners: Reading nooks designed for a comfortable experience.
  • Community Building: Hosts book clubs and readers meet-ups.
Pelita Ilmu Library

16. Pelita Ilmu Library

Focused on academic and scholarly books with a wide collection of reference materials. Designed for students and academics, this library solves the challenge of accessing specialized academic resources.
  • Scholarly Focus: Collection aims at academic and technical books.
  • Study Areas: Designated quiet zones for study and research.
  • Reference Resources: Offers a comprehensive range of scholarly materials.
  • Student-Oriented: Tailored for research and academic studies.
  • Networking Opportunities: Popular among students for study groups.
Komunitas Salihara

17. Komunitas Salihara

A cultural center with a thoughtful selection of books and regular art and cultural events. Provides a creative solution for combining art with literature in a community-focused setting.
  • Cultural Fusion: Book selections complement ongoing cultural exhibitions.
  • Artistic Events: Regular concerts, exhibits, and theater productions.
  • Eclectic Collection: Books ranging from arts to philosophical discussions.
  • Community Events: Spaces used for talks and interactive sessions.
  • Artistic Ambience: Designed to inspire creativity.
Pramuka Pustaka

18. Pramuka Pustaka

A specialty bookstore that focuses on scouting literature and resources. Provides solutions for scouting enthusiasts who might struggle to find specific materials related to their interests.
  • Specialty Focus: Extensive titles dedicated to scouting and outdoor activities.
  • Uniform Supplies: Offers scouting gear and apparel.
  • Community Hub: Popular meeting place for scouts and leaders.
  • Resource Materials: Guides and materials related to scouting.
  • Accessible Location: Easily reachable for scout members across Jakarta.
PeRi+ Library

19. PeRi+ Library

A digital library initiative providing free online access to a wide range of Indonesian publications and research. It addresses the need for digital access to literature, especially useful for researchers and tech-savvy readers.
  • Digital Access: Offers a completely free and online book experience.
  • E-Publications: Includes a variety of Indonesian research papers.
  • User-Friendly Portal: Easy navigation for finding specific topics or books.
  • Remote Access: Available anywhere with internet access.
  • Technological Advantage: Instant access to new and updated resources.
Baca Buku

20. Baca Buku

A community-driven initiative focusing on sharing books and encouraging reading habits. It tackles the challenge of limited access to books for different community members across Jakarta.
  • Community-Oriented: Designed to encourage book sharing among readers.
  • Free Reading Corners: Space for free reading in local community areas.
  • Event Host: Regularly organizes reading challenges and group events.
  • Mobile Library: Facility to bring books to underserved areas.
  • Cost-Free: Supports reading and learning without financial burden.