Best Bookstores & Libraries in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

Johannesburg, South Africa, Johannesburg, Culture & Entertainment, Best Bookstores & Libraries

Best Bookstores & Libraries in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

1. Exclusive Books Rosebank

A popular bookstore with a wide selection of local and international titles, offering a unique coffee shop experience.
  • Wide Selection: Offers a vast range of books across various genres
  • Coffee Shop: Features a cozy coffee shop perfect for reading and relaxing
  • Central Location: Located in the bustling Rosebank shopping precinct

2. The Stack Bookstore

A hidden gem offering a curated selection of books and art objects within an inviting industrial setting.
  • Curated Selection: Features a carefully selected collection of books and art objects
  • Industrial Setting: Set within a beautifully restored industrial building
  • Cafe and Workspace: Offers a cafe and workspace for visitors to enjoy and create

3. The Book Lounge

A renowned independent bookstore with a focus on supporting local authors and promoting literacy.
  • Local Authors: Dedicated to showcasing South African literature
  • Literary Events: Regularly hosts author talks, signings, and literary events
  • Knowledgeable Staff: Staff members are well-read and passionate about literature

4. Johannesburg Library

The central library of Johannesburg, providing a vast collection of books, resources, and study spaces.
  • Vast Collection: Home to an extensive collection of books, periodicals, and multimedia resources
  • Study Spaces: Offers quiet study spaces for focused research and reading
  • Community Resources: Provides access to community resources, such as free Wi-Fi and computers

5. Wits University Bookshop

A university bookstore offering academic books, textbooks, and stationery for students.
  • Academic Books: Specializes in academic books and textbooks
  • Student Discounts: Offers student discounts on selected items
  • Convenient Location: Located on the campus of the University of the Witwatersrand

6. Braamfontein Spree

A vibrant bookstore with a focus on contemporary literature, located in Johannesburg's arts district.
  • Contemporary Literature: Specializes in contemporary South African and international fiction
  • Arts District Location: Set within the artsy neighborhood of Braamfontein
  • Cafe and Events: Features a cafe and hosts literary events throughout the year

7. African Books Collective

A non-profit bookstore dedicated to promoting African literature and supporting local authors.
  • African Literature: Focuses on books written by African authors
  • Non-Profit: Runs as a non-profit organization, with profits supporting literacy initiatives
  • Community Engagement: Engages with local communities to promote literacy and reading culture

8. Lovedale Library

A historical library situated on the Lovedale College campus, offering a unique insight into South African history.
  • Historical Significance: Situated on the historic Lovedale College campus
  • Oldest Library in Africa: One of the oldest libraries on the African continent
  • Rare Books and Manuscripts: Houses a collection of rare books and historical manuscripts

9. University of Johannesburg Library

The main library of the University of Johannesburg, providing extensive resources for students and researchers.
  • Resource Center: Serves as a resource center for students and researchers
  • Extensive Collection: Offers an extensive collection of books, e-books, and multimedia resources
  • Open to the Public: Accessible to the public for research purposes

10. Lindfield Library

A modern library located in Sandton, offering a quiet and comfortable space for study and research.
  • Modern Facilities: Equipped with modern technology and facilities
  • Quiet Study Spaces: Offers quiet study spaces for focused research and reading
  • Community Engagement: Engages with local communities to promote literacy and learning

11. Kensington Library

A community library offering a wide range of books, resources, and programs for all ages.
  • Community Focus: Serves the needs of the local community
  • Wide Range of Resources: Offers a wide range of books, magazines, and multimedia resources
  • Programs for All Ages: Provides programs and activities for all age groups, including children, teens, and adults

12. Melville Library

A vibrant community library located in the trendy Melville neighborhood, offering a diverse range of books and resources.
  • Diverse Selection: Features a diverse selection of books and multimedia resources
  • Community Engagement: Engages with the local community through events and programs
  • Trendy Location: Set in the trendy and creative neighborhood of Melville

13. Johannesburg City Library

A network of libraries across Johannesburg, providing access to books, resources, and community programs.
  • Accessible Network: Offers a network of accessible libraries throughout the city
  • Resources for All Ages: Provides resources for all age groups, including children, teens, and adults
  • Community Programs: Offers a variety of community programs and events to engage the public

14. University of Pretoria Library

The main library of the University of Pretoria, offering extensive resources for students and researchers.
  • Resource Center: Serves as a resource center for students and researchers
  • Extensive Collection: Offers an extensive collection of books, e-books, and multimedia resources
  • Open to the Public: Accessible to the public for research purposes

15. Tshwane University of Technology Library

The main library of Tshwane University of Technology, providing resources and study spaces for students.
  • Student Focus: Serves the needs of university students
  • Extensive Collection: Offers an extensive collection of books, e-books, and multimedia resources
  • Study Spaces: Provides study spaces for focused research and learning