10 libraries, cafes with free books in Malaysia every book lover should visit

Malaysia offers an array of libraries and cosy cafes that welcome book lovers to explore worlds within their walls, all for free.

Whether you prefer the quiet of a traditional library or the relaxed vibe of a book-friendly cafe, this guide highlights six of the best libraries and four cafes where you can read for free.

Here is a curated list for your next literary outing:

1. National Library

Address: 232, Jalan Tun Razak, Titiwangsa, Kuala Lumpur

Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10.00am - 5.00pm (closed on Mondays, Sundays and public holidays)

The National Library of Malaysia stands as the country’s premier public library, offering a vast collection of materials that includes local publications, rare manuscripts and government records.

Notable collections include the Malay Manuscripts and the United Nations (UN) collections. With its impressive traditional Malay-inspired architecture, the library is both a resource centre and a cultural landmark in Kuala Lumpur​

2. Penang Digital Library

Address: 135, Jalan Masjid Negeri, George Town, Penang

Hours: Daily, 8.00am - 6.00pm

Penang Digital Library offers a modern approach to reading, with a digital-focused environment that encourages users to access digital books on provided devices or personal devices.

The library’s eco-friendly architecture and peaceful garden provide a relaxing ambiance perfect for study or leisurely reading. This innovative library is particularly popular with tech-savvy readers​

3. Raja Tun Uda Library

Address: Jalan Kelab Golf 13/6, Seksyen 13, Shah Alam, Selangor

Hours: Daily, 9.00am - 6.00pm (closed on public holidays)

This library in Shah Alam offers multiple reading sections, multimedia stations and quiet study pods. Its spacious, modern design and facilities make it a favourite among students and families.

It also offers a dedicated children’s area, making it an excellent choice for readers of all ages. The large glass windows allow natural light to stream in, creating a bright and comfortable environment​

4. Sabah State Library, Tanjung Aru Branch

Address: Tanjung Aru Plaza, 1, Jalan Mat Salleh, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Hours: Monday, 10am - 6.00pm; Tuesday to Saturday, 9.00am - 6.00pm (closed on public holidays)

With its eco-conscious design, the Sabah State Library in Tanjung Aru offers both physical and digital resources, with areas designated for children, teens and adults. Visitors can enjoy reading rooms overlooking lush greenery, giving a tranquil feel to this library.

Its focus on environmental sustainability is reflected in the materials and layout, making it one of the country’s most impressive state libraries​

5. Sarawak State Library

Address: Jalan Pustaka, Petra Jaya, Kuching, Sarawak

Hours: Monday to Friday, 10.00am - 7.00pm (closed on public holidays)

Located in Kuching, the Sarawak State Library offers a vast collection of resources, with a special emphasis on materials about Sarawak’s rich heritage.

It has a spacious, serene environment and a large open reading area where visitors can enjoy views of the surrounding green spaces. The library also serves as an educational centre, regularly hosting events and activities for the local community​

6. Kuala Lumpur Library

Address: 1, Jalan Raja, City Centre, Kuala Lumpur

Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 10.00am - 6.45pm; Weekends, 10.00am - 5.00pm (closed on public holidays and the first Saturday and Sunday of the month)

Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, this library is known for its convenient accessibility and its quiet reading spaces, making it a popular spot for students and professionals. It also features a children’s library and regularly organises cultural and educational events.

Visitors appreciate the peaceful ambiance in contrast to the city’s hustle and bustle outside​.

7. Bukku Cafe

Address: 1, Jalan Singgahsana 4A/KU2, Bandar Bukit Raja, Klang, Selangor

Hours: Daily, 8.30am - 5.00pm.

Nestled in Setia Alam, Bukku Cafe is a beloved spot for its fusion menu and inviting ambiance. The cafe offers patrons a charming outdoor terrace with a lush, glass-enclosed area where they can relax, read and enjoy the surrounding greenery.

Inside, shelves are lined with books, making it a perfect retreat for an afternoon of coffee and reading.

8. RGB at The Bean Hive

Address: 35, Jalan Damai, Kampung Datuk Keramat, Kuala Lumpur

Hours: Daily, 8.00am - 5.00pm.

A hidden gem in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, RGB at The Bean Hive combines boutique coffee roasting with a book-friendly cafe experience. Located in a bungalow, this cafe offers both a spacious outdoor garden and cosy nooks indoors.

With a play area for kids and a library section, it is ideal for families or anyone who wants to relax with a good book and coffee. The menu includes a variety of Asian and Western dishes, many of which are vegan-friendly.

9. Ink Library Cafe

Address: EcoWorld Gallery@Eco Grandeur, Puncak Alam, Sungai Buloh, Selangor

Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 10.00am - 10.00pm; Friday to Saturday, 10.00am - 11.00pm

Located within Grandeur Labs in Sungai Buloh, Ink Library Cafe is a striking glasshouse cafe that creates a captivating backdrop for reading or working. Its walls of books are thoughtfully arranged, providing plenty of options for any book enthusiast.

With its serene setting and Instagram-worthy design, Ink Library Cafe offers an inspiring environment to relax, read and recharge.

10. Orchid’s Library Cafe

Address: 53A - 1 KL Traders Square, Jalan Gombak, Kampung Kuantan, Kuala Lumpur

Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 3.00pm - 9.00pm

Orchid’s Library Cafe is the brainchild of Dayana, a popular ‘booktok influencer and advocate for a healthy lifestyle. Located at KL Traders Square, this cafe is Dayana’s personal space for promoting a love of reading.

With her collection of annotated books available for patrons to read, customers can share thoughts on the storyline and characters with fellow readers. Orchid’s Library Cafe also serves healthy smoothies and reduced-sugar snacks, making it a unique destination for health-conscious book lovers.

Each of these libraries and cafes offers something unique, whether you are a student looking for research materials or a book lover seeking a quiet cafe to chill and read.

They also host various cultural events and workshops, making them not just places for reading but community hubs too.