Singapore’s library landscape is one of the most impressive in Asia. With beautifully designed spaces, extensive collections, dedicated children’s zones, and modern facilities that rival co-working spaces, the National Library Board (NLB) has transformed reading books into an experience rather than a task. Whether you’re searching for a peaceful study spot, a family-friendly environment to nurture young readers, or a community library with curated programmes, Singapore offers a library for every need.
This guide highlights the very best libraries across the island—focusing on ambience, facilities, collections, and what makes each one special.
National Library, Victoria Street (Lee Kong Chian Reference Library)
The National Library at Bugis stands as Singapore’s flagship public library and an architectural icon. Spread over multiple floors, the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library offers an enormous selection of reference materials, journals, rare documents, and research-heavy resources that you won’t find in typical neighbourhood branches. Its reading rooms are quiet and spacious, ideal for students, researchers, and anyone who needs long, uninterrupted study sessions.
The upper floors offer stunning city views, while the lower levels house a wide general-interest collection. This library is perfect for those who want both atmosphere and substance—an inspiring space that feels like a productive sanctuary in the middle of the city.
Address: 100 Victoria St, Singapore 188064
Library @ Orchard – Singapore’s Most Aesthetic Library
If you love design, minimalist interiors, and curated shelves, Library@Orchard will feel like a dream. Located inside Orchard Gateway, it is built on the concept of “design thinking,” which explains its flowing white shelves, curved spaces, and the creative vibe that attracts both young adults and working professionals.
The collection centres around lifestyle, art, design, media, and technology. Many readers come not just to borrow books, but to work, brainstorm ideas, or unwind in a stylish, calming environment away from Orchard Road’s bustle. Library@Orchard also frequently hosts design workshops, creative writing sessions, and maker-themed events—making it a hub for Singapore’s creative community.
Address: 277 Orchard Rd, #03-12 / #04-11 orchardgateway, Singapore 238858
Library @ HarbourFront – Best Family-Friendly Library with a View
Library@HarbourFront is one of the most family-oriented libraries in Singapore, featuring one of the largest children’s sections island-wide. The dedicated kids’ zone includes interactive activity areas, child-height shelving, cosy storytelling corners, and sensory-friendly spaces. It’s a favourite hangout for parents with toddlers and early readers.
Adults love this library too. The reading lounge faces the sea, offering sweeping views of Sentosa—one of the most scenic reading corners in any local library. Whether you’re studying, reading fiction, or simply taking a quiet break during a day out at VivoCity, this library blends convenience, ambience, and functionality.
Address: 1 HarbourFront Walk, #03-05 VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Tampines Regional Library – Best All-Purpose Library
Tampines Regional Library is massive and truly multifunctional. With study pods, large open reading zones, meeting rooms, a dedicated Teens’ area, and a vast children’s collection, it caters to every age group and every reading need. The library also features a cooking studio for culinary classes, exercise bikes with reading stands, and excellent community programming throughout the year.
Located within Our Tampines Hub, its extended operating hours and proximity to food courts, sports facilities, and activity centres make it the ultimate one-stop library for East-side families and students. If you want a big library with endless variety, this is one of Singapore’s best.
Address: 1 Tampines Walk, #02-01 Our Tampines Hub, Singapore 528523
Jurong Regional Library – Best Library for Teens & Youths
Jurong Regional Library has a strong focus on youth engagement, and its dedicated Teens’ Zone—called “Verging All Teens” (VAT)—has been a hit since its early days. With multimedia stations, young-adult collections, and casual seating areas, it’s a vibrant space designed to encourage teens to read, explore creativity, and participate in volunteer activities.
The library also hosts frequent community events, book clubs, learning programmes, and workshops for families. With its spacious layout and balanced mix of quiet and activity zones, Jurong Regional Library continues to be an important reading and community hub for residents in the West.
Address: 21 Jurong East Central 1, Singapore 609732
Punggol Regional Library – Singapore’s First Inclusive Library
Opened in phases from 2023 onward, Punggol Regional Library is Singapore’s first fully inclusive library, designed around accessibility for all. It features assistive technology, wheelchair-friendly shelves, calm sensory zones, and dyslexia-friendly fonts and tools.
What stands out most is the Children’s Zone, built with early literacy and inclusive play in mind. Families will find interactive installations, baby-friendly reading spaces, and early-learning programmes tailored to children with diverse needs. This library represents the future of public reading spaces—accessible, community-focused, and designed to support different learning styles.
Address: 1 Punggol Drive One, #01-12, 828629
Choa Chu Kang Public Library – Best Eco-Themed Library
This newly revamped library is Singapore’s first “garden library,” incorporating sustainability themes throughout its design. Visitors will encounter indoor plant displays, educational installations on urban farming, and workshops related to sustainability, recycling, and green living.
Despite its nature theme, the library offers modern amenities such as study tables, digital borrowing systems, and a good range of fiction and non-fiction books. If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-inspired reading environment without leaving the heartlands, this library is a hidden gem.
Address: 21 Choa Chu Kang Avenue 4 #04-01/02 and #05-06, Lot One Shopper’s Mall, 689812
Bedok Public Library – Best for East-Side Readers
Bedok Public Library is bright, spacious and consistently well-rated for its organisation, comfort and ease of browsing. Its revamped interior features improved seating, more study corners, and colour-coded shelves to help users find books faster.
The library also hosts active programmes for seniors, teens, and young children, making it a well-balanced community branch. Because it is located inside Heartbeat@Bedok, you can easily pair your library visit with a workout, meal or errand—making this a favourite among East-side residents.
Address: 11 Bedok North Street 1, #02-03 & #03-04 Heartbeat@Bedok, Singapore 469662
Sembawang Public Library – Best Neighbourhood Library for Quiet Reading
If you enjoy reading in a calm, beautifully designed space, Sembawang Public Library offers a serene atmosphere with wood-toned interiors and soft lighting. Though not as large as regional libraries, it has a highly curated collection, comfortable seating, and a loyal community of regular users.
Its location in Sun Plaza makes it convenient for families and residents in the North. For readers who prefer a quieter, less crowded library, this is a wonderful choice.
Address: 30 Sembawang Dr, #05 – 01 Sun Plaza, Singapore 757713
Woodlands Regional Library – Best for Students and Researchers in the North
Woodlands Regional Library is one of the largest libraries in Singapore, with extensive study areas and multi-level reading sections. Students flock here for its plentiful tables, power outlets, and quiet environment. Its Teens’ Zone, children’s library, and research-friendly reference collection also make it a well-rounded space for various age groups.
The library frequently hosts workshops, storytelling sessions, and book clubs — making it a lively community hub while still offering ample quiet corners for solo reading or serious work.
Address: 900 S Woodlands Dr, #01-03 Civic Centre, Singapore 730900
How to Choose the Right Library for You
Choosing the “best” library depends on what you’re looking for. Creative types may love Library@Orchard’s design-centric shelves. Families will enjoy HarbourFront and Punggol. Students seeking a quiet study environment may prefer the National Library or Woodlands Regional Library. Those in the East or West can rely on their large, well-equipped regional libraries.
What makes Singapore’s library ecosystem truly impressive is the diversity of experiences—from ocean views to indoor gardens, high-tech spaces to quiet reading sanctuaries.
Final Thoughts
Singapore’s libraries are no longer just places to borrow books—they’re cultural hubs, community centres, design showcases, and the perfect escape from hectic city life. Whether you’re a student, a working adult, a parent, or a casual reader, you’ll find a library that feels like it was designed just for you.
Explore them, find your favourite, and let these beautiful spaces inspire your next chapter.
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