Lahore, a city steeped in history and culture, is also a haven for book lovers; its bustling streets are home to various bookstores, each offering a unique experience. Known for its rich history of poets, writers and artists, Lahore has retained some of the most reputed and famous book spots amidst disintegrating intellectual revolutions that once marred this city of gardens. From classic literature to contemporary bestsellers, you will surely find something to pique your interest, therefore, we have added Lahore’s top five book places where one might delve into the world of wonders and imagination.
Readings
In recent years, Lahore has seen a surge in modern bookstores that cater to a younger, more diverse audience. Readings, with its branches in both Gulberg and DHA, has become a favourite among book lovers for it offers a carefully curated selection of books, including fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, works on philosophy, history, anthropology, politics and many more making it a space that caters to every age group with variegated topics. Readings is also known to host literary events, book launches, and author signings, making it a vibrant hub for the literary community including a new coffee café where one can sip the richness of Arabica beans while turning the pages of their favourite books. What is more impressive about this book retreat is that it delivers the same day in Lahore if orders are placed before noon and has an all-over nation delivery service.
Ferozesons
An iconic bookstore with a vast number of books on every known subject, Ferozsons has been serving Lahore’s bookish community for decades. It boasts a vast collection of academic and professional books, making it a popular choice for students and researchers. The store’s central location at DHA near LUMS makes it a relatively famous place where you may find all the popular titles, thence, the long-standing reputation making it a go-to destination for many.
Liberty Books
Liberty Books, with its long-standing presence in Lahore, is a familiar name to many: the store offers a wide range of books, including fiction, non-fiction, textbooks, and stationery. While it may not be as specialized as some of the other bookstores on this list, Liberty Books remains a popular choice for its convenient locations, reliable service and its very own publishing line providing publishing opportunities to those writers who are struggling in the throes of publishing. However, if one is an introvert then one might find it difficult to visit Liberty Books since all of its outlets are in malls, yet the efficient delivery services make up for this.
Hidden Gems on Mall Road
Beyond the well-known bookstores, Lahore is also home to several hidden gems. Small, independent bookstores tucked away in the city’s narrow streets often offer unique and eclectic selections. One such spot is prevalent on Mall Road near Pak Tea House on Sunday early mornings where the stalls are set nearly around 9 am, containing the most affordable yet the most majestic variety of books some as old as 200 years. The books, mostly pre-loved, are a great catch, especially in these times of economic degeneration.
Main Market
For those seeking a nostalgic experience, Lahore’s older bookstores offer a treasure trove of classic literature, rare editions, and academic texts. Anees Book Corner, a stalwart in the city’s literary landscape, is a must-visit because its shelves are lined with books on various subjects, from history and philosophy to fiction and poetry whilst also dealing with academic tomes. Alongside this, the Main Market in Gulberg houses many old bookshops including the Jumbo Old Book Store and Alvi Book Store where one may find the most treasured editions at a very minimal price.
