Johor Bahru, the capital of Johor is a popular place to visit amongst tourists for the many shopping options and theme parks available in the area. For an underrated activity in JB, you can try visiting one of the libraries, book cafes, or bookstores in town. 

A more affordable and more fulfilling change of pace from the usual itinerary in JB, here are the top libraries, book cafes, and bookstores recommended to explore in Johor Bahru. 

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While in Johor Bahru, these 4 public libraries can be a perfect getaway for a calm and quiet time to read:

Address: Jln Datin Halimah, Larkin, 80350 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia

Sultan Ismail Library is a public library with a calm and quiet environment that is perfect for studying. You can visit for free, but there are additional fees ranging from RM 1-2 for wi-fi, power plug, or computer usage.

The place is family friendly, with a dedicated children's section for kids to read books or do some activities such as coloring or doing crafts. Another interesting and frequently visited section is the magazine and newspaper area.

Address: 19745, Jalan Yahya Awal, Kampung Mahmoddiah, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia

The Johor Public Library Corporation is the central library of the state. Regarded as one of the most comprehensive libraries in Johor, this library also offers and interactive area for kids as well adults who’s young at heart.

For young visitors, the Petrosains area is popular during school holidays and the weekend. Interestingly enough, the comic book section is another widely popular area visited by readers from all ages. 

Address: PTD70521 (Lot 111561), Jalan Persisiran Sutera Danga, Taman Sutera Utama 81300 Johor Bahru, Malaysia

The Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si Library is a part of Buddhist temple in Taman Sutera. It is open for public who are looking to learn and read more through books related to Buddhism, meditation, and spiritual growth. For visitors coming with children, this library also offers children‘s storybooks.

Address: 56-01, Jalan Indah 1, Taman Bukit Indah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim

Pustaka Bijak Ilmu is a free private library in Taman Bukit Indah. An ideal place to study or work in a quiet area. The book collection is quite diverse but specializes more on self-development and Islamic literature. You could always bring your own book to read. Check the schedule as this library often hosts small reading clubs and discussions.

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Since most libraries don't allow visitors to eat and drink inside the premises, visiting a book cafe can be a nice alternative for you to browse and read various books while enjoying delicious foods and drinks. These 3 book cafes in JB would be our recommendations for you:

Address: ShoplotA D'suites Akasia, 9, Jalan Persiaran Selatan, Horizon Hills, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia

A cozy and charming little space with a decent books and comics collection is a nice place to relax while reading. A minimum spend of a glass of drink is mandatory, but the food selection is quite delicious as well. Located inside a condo, please book a visit beforehand because visitors would need a QR code to enter.

Address: Molek, 7-01, 42, Jln Molek 1, Taman Molek, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia

Silent Chapter Bookcafe is a lovely cafe, pleasantly decorated with different designs and themes in different areas throughout the cafe. Grab the seat according to your liking and mood. While enjoying a cup of coffee and cake or pastry, you can also browse and read curated Chinese, English, Japanese and Korean books available on the shelf. Check their Instagram, before visiting if you are interested in joining unique workshops that are also being held in the cafe.

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These 2 large bookstores in JB are pleasantly easy on the eyes and also a great place to purchase your next read:

Address: F-01 First Floor, Box Retail Park, Sunway Big, Persiaran Medini 5, 79250 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia

Famous for its Instagramable 7.5 meters tall book shelves, BookXcess Sunway JB is popular as a photo spot as well as a place to shop for imported books, including a great range of children’s titles, as well as board games and toys. 

Address: G130, Persiaran Desa Tebrau, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia

A beautiful Japanese bookstore and cafe with an extensive selection of English, Chinese, Malay and Japanese books including manga. After finishing browsing for books and stationery, stop by the cafe for a glass of americano or a value set menu available on weekdays. 

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Johor Bahru is calling all bookworms and bibliophiles to explore the city’s best libraries, book cafes, and bookstores. Bring your headphones and prepare your favorite reading playlist to enjoy a day filled with books and quiet time alone with your thoughts!

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