Bissan Library: A Palestinian-Owned Gem for Book Lovers in Hamra
Tucked away in Hamra, Bissan Library is one of the neighborhood’s enduring bookshops and a quiet refuge for readers amid the hustle of cafés, shops, and streets.
While Hamra is known for its busy urban energy, this Palestinian-owned library stands out as an old-school library and bookstore with a deep collection of books in Arabic. Locals and students stop by to browse shelves crowded with titles ranging from classic literature to contemporary works and academic guides, including books suited for university and school readers.
The space isn’t flashy. Instead, it carries the feel of a well-worn literary spot, where thousands of books have been amassed over decades. Browsing itself feels like a small discovery. The impressive collection spills into every available corner, giving the sense of a place cherished by serious readers.
Above the owner’s desk, you’ll find a map of Palestine and the Key of Return. Amongst the bookshelves, there’s a famous photograph from November 2005 of a Palestinian woman hugging an olive tree.
Bissan Lobrary has been listed as a significant cultural anchor in Hamra’s book scene for years. It’s part of the neighborhood’s network of independent bookshops that continue to “resist” the shift away from print.
📍 Location
Hamra, Mahatma Gandhi Street
Click here for the exact location.
⏰ Opening Hours
Daily from 9 AM until 8 PM
📞 Contact
+961 1 351 291
Have you visited Bissan Library in Hamra before? Let us know what your last read from there was! Make sure to browse the #Bookworms section on our website for more content like this.
