Guides
5 Libraries In Beirut Where You Can Find Used Books
Nothing replaces the magic of a physical book. You’ve heard this a hundred times (we know) but when was the last time you held an actual book in your hand instead of opting to read on your iPad/phone.
However, we recognize that books can be expensive and we are all on a budget. That’s why we have rounded up a list of places where you can find used books in good condition.
1. AUBMC’s Bargain Box
AUBMC’s Bargain Box offers a host of affordable books for those who aren’t looking for anything in particular. You never know what you’ll find, so check it out if you’re feeling like taking a gamble. To check out the selection, head to the Children’s Cancer Center in the Issam Fares ground floor. An added bonus: The Women’s Auxiliary runs this volunteer-based program and all proceeds are donated to patients in need.
2. Halabi Bookshop
Halabi Bookshop is one of the best hidden gems in the city. With their wide variety of novels and non-fiction books, the owners are always friendly and helpful. Visit the actual shop or stay in bed and order it online (there is something for everyone). They also have an adorable reading nook so you can escape the city and dive into a good tale.
3. Book Bazar
The old bookshop on Sidani Street is well known to foreigners and locals alike, offering piles of new and old books from every genre. Support your local bookshop and check out their selection of comics, cookbooks, novels, classics, and much more.
4. Aaliya’s Books
Aaliya’s Books is one of the hippest coffee shops on Gouraud street, the open space has a library in the back filled with classics and contemporaries. Look for the used section, so that you get the most bang out of your buck. Bonus: this spot is dog-friendly!
5. Assabil, Beirut’s free public libraries
You read that right, Beirut has fully functioning municipal libraries: one in Geitawi, another in Monot, and a third in Bachoura. An added benefit is that the Geitawi library has the perk of being in a park where one can read/study/work outside. How can you browse through thousands of titles for free? You need a copy of your ID and a refundable deposit of 10,000LL with special offers for families.
Happy reading!
However, we recognize that books can be expensive and we are all on a budget. That’s why we have rounded up a list of places where you can find used books in good condition.
1. AUBMC’s Bargain Box
AUBMC’s Bargain Box offers a host of affordable books for those who aren’t looking for anything in particular. You never know what you’ll find, so check it out if you’re feeling like taking a gamble. To check out the selection, head to the Children’s Cancer Center in the Issam Fares ground floor. An added bonus: The Women’s Auxiliary runs this volunteer-based program and all proceeds are donated to patients in need.
2. Halabi Bookshop
Halabi Bookshop is one of the best hidden gems in the city. With their wide variety of novels and non-fiction books, the owners are always friendly and helpful. Visit the actual shop or stay in bed and order it online (there is something for everyone). They also have an adorable reading nook so you can escape the city and dive into a good tale.
3. Book Bazar
The old bookshop on Sidani Street is well known to foreigners and locals alike, offering piles of new and old books from every genre. Support your local bookshop and check out their selection of comics, cookbooks, novels, classics, and much more.
4. Aaliya’s Books
Aaliya’s Books is one of the hippest coffee shops on Gouraud street, the open space has a library in the back filled with classics and contemporaries. Look for the used section, so that you get the most bang out of your buck. Bonus: this spot is dog-friendly!
5. Assabil, Beirut’s free public libraries
You read that right, Beirut has fully functioning municipal libraries: one in Geitawi, another in Monot, and a third in Bachoura. An added benefit is that the Geitawi library has the perk of being in a park where one can read/study/work outside. How can you browse through thousands of titles for free? You need a copy of your ID and a refundable deposit of 10,000LL with special offers for families.
Happy reading!
