Singapore’s indie bookstore scene is a hidden treasure trove for book lovers.
From cosy community spaces to conservation shophouses and even an online shop, these stores offer carefully curated titles.
More importantly, they bring a personal touch that big chains just can’t match.
1. Basheer Graphic Books
A staple in Singapore’s creative scene, Basheer Graphic Books is known for its extensive range of design-focused titles. These span animation, typography, product design, film and architecture.
In addition, the store carries hard-to-find magazines and visual references. You’ll also find cult-favourite publications, including titles by A24 and Wes Anderson.
Address: Block 231, Bain Street, #04-19, Bras Basah Complex, Singapore 180231
Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 10am-8pm
Sun: 11am-8pm
Website: basheergraphic.com | Instagram: @basheergraphic
2. casual poet library
Tucked within an HDB void deck, casual poet library is a small, community-run space with a unique concept. Here, individuals rent and curate their own bookshelves.
As a result, each shelf reflects its owner’s personal taste. Many also include handwritten notes and recommendations.
Visitors can drop by to browse or read on-site for free. Meanwhile, an annual membership lets you borrow books. The space also hosts cosy community events and intimate talks.
Address: 123 Bukit Merah Lane 1, #01-110, Singapore 150123
Opening Hours:
Tues-Sun: 10am to 9pm
closed on Mon
Website: casualpoetlibrary.com | Instagram: @casualpoetlibrary
3. Book Bar
Located in Duxton, Book Bar is a cosy bookstore-café focused on Singaporean and Asian literature. In particular, it highlights local authors and small press titles.
The shelves are thoughtfully curated for readers exploring regional voices. At the same time, the cafe offers a relaxed space to sit and read.
Additionally, the store hosts regular book launches, readings and community-led events.
Address: 57 Duxton Rd, Singapore 089521
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thurs: 9.30am-7pm
Fri & Sat: 9.30am-10pm
Sun: 9.30am-6pm
Website: bookbar.sg | Instagram: @bookbarsg
4. Littered with Books
Housed in a conservation shophouse, Littered with Books is known for its carefully curated selection. It covers literary fiction, non-fiction, crime, thrillers, sci-fi and fantasy.
Beyond that, you’ll also find travel writing and award-winning children’s titles. As such, it’s an easy spot to browse across genres.
Address: 20 Duxton Rd, Singapore 089486
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm-8pm
Sat & Sun: 11am-8pm
Instagram: @litteredwithbooks
Check out the 6 best indie art & design stores in Singapore if you like zines and prints.
5. Ana Bookstore
One of the only secondhand bookstores along Orchard Road, Ana Bookstore focuses on giving pre-loved books a second life.
The shelves span a wide mix of genres. These include popular fiction, romance, self-help and autobiographies. You may also come across comics or vintage finds.
Visitors can choose to rent or buy selected titles. Furthermore, the store accepts walk-in donations with on-the-spot valuation.
Address: Far East Plaza #05-01, 14 Scotts Road, S’pore 228213
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat: 12pm-8pm, Sun: 1pm-6pm
6. Wardah Books
Wardah Books specialises in English-language titles on Islam, with over 4,000 books spanning history, philosophy, literature and the arts.
Beyond retail, it also serves as a community space. For instance, the store hosts reading sessions, book clubs and author events.
Address: 58 Bussorah St, Singapore 199474
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thurs: 10am to 9pm
Fri: 10am-10pm
Sat: 9am-10pm
Sun: 9am-9pm
Website: wardahbooks.com | Instagram: @wardahbooks
7. The Bookstore by Books Beyond Borders
Run by social enterprise Books Beyond Borders, this bookstore focuses on lightly used books at affordable prices. As a result, it’s an easy place to browse for a casual read.
At the same time, each purchase supports a good cause. Five percent of sales goes towards scholarships for girls’ education in Nepal.
Address: 33 Erskine Rd #01-08, Singapore
Opening Hours: Daily, 11am-8pm
Website: booksbeyondborders.org | Instagram: @booksbeyond.borders
8. Grassroots Book Room
Grassroots Book Room is a cosy bookstore focused on Chinese-language titles, covering literature, culture and current affairs, with a curated selection of English books.
A small cafe at the back adds to its relaxed atmosphere.
Address: 25 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089839
Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm-8pm
Sun: 12pm-6pm
Closed on Tuesday
Instagram: @grassrootsbookroom
9. Wormhole
Wormhole is an online bookstore that champions underrepresented voices. Its selection spans literary fiction, poetry and experimental writing. It also includes queer, local and feminist titles.
In addition, the store offers non-fiction, children’s books and graphic novels. You’ll also find quirky merch from independent creators.
Bringing its presence offline, Wormhole builds community through book clubs, themed initiatives and pop-ups.
Website: wormhole.com.sg | Instagram: @wormholesg
Cover image adapted from Basheer Graphics Books, casual poet library, Littered with Books, chinatown.sg.
