Best Destinations for Book Lovers in Beirut, Beyrouth, Lebanon
1. American University of Beirut (AUB) Library
Home to a vast collection of books, with a unique focus on Middle Eastern studies.
- Rare Books Collection: Access to rare and out-of-print books related to the region.
- Study Spaces: Plentiful study spaces, both indoor and outdoor, for book lovers.
- Events: Regular literary events featuring local and international authors.
2. Beirut Art Center (BAC) Library
A hub for art books and exhibitions, fostering creative thought and dialogue.
- Artistic Focus: Specialized collection of art books and resources.
- Exhibitions: Rotating exhibitions showcasing local and international artists.
- Workshops: Regular workshops on various art-related topics.
3. Hamra Street Bookstores
A lively street with a variety of independent bookstores offering diverse titles.
- Independent Bookstores: Support local, independently-owned bookstores.
- Diverse Titles: Access to a wide range of books in multiple languages.
- Local Flavor: Experience the vibrant and unique atmosphere of Hamra Street.
4. Souks of Beirut (Khan Al-Franj)
Historic marketplace filled with traditional bookstores selling rare and antique books.
- Rare & Antique Books: Access to unique, hard-to-find books dating back centuries.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Beirut.
- Bargaining: Master the art of bargaining for your book purchases.
5. Beirut Public Library
A free, public library offering a wide selection of books and resources.
- Free Access: No fees for access to the library or its resources.
- Language Resources: Multilingual books and resources, including Arabic, English, and French.
- Community Programs: Regular community programs focused on literature, arts, and culture.
6. Al-Ayyam Bookstore
Iconic bookstore in the heart of Hamra Street, offering a wide selection of books.
- Literary Events: Regular literary events featuring local and international authors.
- Cafe & Books: Combined bookstore and cafe for a relaxing reading experience.
- Arabic Literature Focus: Extensive collection of Arabic literature, including modern and classic works.
7. Sursock Museum Library
Library within an art museum, offering resources on art, culture, and history.
- Art & Culture Focus: Specialized collection of books on art, culture, and history.
- Exhibitions: Access to rotating exhibitions showcasing local and international artists.
- Resources for Research: Useful resources for research and scholarly work on art and culture.
8. Jisr el Wati Bookstore
A charming bookstore with a cozy atmosphere, offering a wide selection of books.
- Cozy Atmosphere: Relax in the comfortable and inviting environment.
- Literary Events: Regular literary events featuring local and international authors.
- Arabic & English Books: A mix of Arabic and English books, including modern and classic works.
9. Dar Al-Akademiya Bookstore
Bookstore within the Lebanese Academy of Fine Arts, offering books on art and culture.
- Art & Culture Focus: Specialized collection of books on art, culture, and history.
- Exhibitions: Access to rotating exhibitions showcasing local and international artists.
- Resources for Research: Useful resources for research and scholarly work on art and culture.
10. Khalil Gibran Museum Library
Library dedicated to the works of Khalil Gibran, with a focus on literature and philosophy.
- Gibran's Works: Extensive collection of books by and about Khalil Gibran.
- Philosophical Focus: Resources on the philosophy and spirituality that influenced Gibran's works.
- Literary Events: Regular literary events exploring Gibran's life and legacy.
11. Beirut Souks Flea Market
A bustling marketplace filled with second-hand books, vinyl records, and more.
- Second-Hand Books: Find unique, second-hand books at bargain prices.
- Vinyl Records: Discover a collection of vinyl records alongside the books.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the vibrant and eclectic atmosphere of Beirut Souks.
12. Gaston Zakhia Antiquities & Rare Books
Antique bookstore offering a unique collection of rare and out-of-print books.
- Rare Books Collection: Access to unique, hard-to-find books dating back centuries.
- Historical Artifacts: Discover historical artifacts alongside the rare books.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Benefit from the knowledge and expertise of the experienced staff.
13. Beirut Art Residency Library
Library within an artist residency, offering resources on art, literature, and culture.
- Art & Literature Focus: Specialized collection of books on art, literature, and culture.
- Exhibitions: Access to rotating exhibitions showcasing local and international artists.
- Artist Collaboration: Opportunity to collaborate with resident artists during your stay.
14. Beirut Design Week Library
Library focusing on design, architecture, and innovation, with resources for inspiration.
- Design Focus: Specialized collection of books on design, architecture, and innovation.
- Design Events: Regular design events showcasing local and international designers.
- Inspiration & Resources: Find inspiration for your own creative projects among the resources available.
15. Beirut Pop-Up Bookstore
A temporary bookstore popping up in various locations around Beirut, offering a wide selection of books.
- Location Variety: Experience different neighborhoods and venues during your bookstore visits.
- Diverse Titles: Access to a wide range of books in multiple languages.
- Local Flavor: Engage with the local community and learn about Beirut's unique culture.