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A perfect quiet afternoon activity that won’t cost a cent – find out why these Hong Kong public libraries are worth a visit.
Looking for a free weekend activity? Here’s an idea! Why not pay a visit to your local public library or explore one you’ve never been to before? It’s a great place to discover new books and catch up on your TBR, or perhaps you just need a quiet place to clear your head. There are 70 public libraries in Hong Kong, but if you’re not sure where to start, here are six of our favourites.
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Hong Kong Central Library, Causeway Bay – Largest Public Library In Hong Kong
If you’re an avid reader, you should be no stranger to the Hong Kong Central Library. It’s the flagship of the local public library system as well as the largest public library in the city. Inside this concrete structure, you’ll find over 2.5 million books, multimedia resources, and newspapers just waiting to be browsed and borrowed.
Hong Kong Central Library, 66 Causeway Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, www.hkpl.gov.hk
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Hong Kong City Hall Library, Central – Oldest Public Library In Hong Kong
Established in 1962, Hong Kong City Hall Library previously held the title of the city’s flagship public library until Hong Kong Central Library claimed the honour in 2001. In contrast to its austere facade, its interior is warm and welcoming, with little reading nooks perfect for curling up with a book.
Hong Kong City Hall Library, 2-6/F. & 8-11/F., City Hall High Block, Central, Hong Kong, www.hkpl.gov.hk
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Ping Shan Tin Shui Wai Public Library, Tin Shui Wai – Serene public library with a rooftop garden terrace for reading in the sun
We know this public library is a journey from the city centre, but trust us when we say it’s worth the trek. Surrounded by greenery and tranquil water features, this eight-story haven is ideal for a relaxing day spent with books. For outdoor reading enthusiasts, head up to the rooftop terrace where you’ll find tables perfect for enjoying a book in the sunshine.
Ping Shan Tin Shui Wai Public Library, High Block, Ping Shan Tin Shui Wai Leisure and Cultural Building, 1 Tsui Sing Road, Tin Shui Wai, New Territories, Hong Kong, www.hkpl.gov.hk
Kowloon Public Library, Ho Man Tin – Largest public library on Kowloonside and a popular haunt for students
A staple for Kowloon-siders, this white and teal public library has long served as a popular after-school respite for students and academics in the area. At 12-storeys tall, it’s the largest public library in Kowloon, boasting a collection of 1.5 million books and an entire floor dedicated to English adult books.
Kowloon Public Library, 5 Pui Ching Road, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong, www.hkpl.gov.hk
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North Lamma Public Library, Yung Shue Wan – Cultural public library by the sea on Lamma Island
After its revamp in 2019, this charming seaside library expanded by around 100 square metres. This Lamma island public library, conveniently situated just next to Yung Shue Wan pier, now offers a self-charging service, plus more digital service workstations, and reading desks overlooking the water.
North Lamma Public Library, 1 & 2/F, 1 Yung Shue Wan Main Street, Yung Shue Wan, Lamma Island, Hong Kong, www.hkpl.gov.hk
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Tung Chung Public Library, Tung Chung – Public library next to an outlet mall with reading area and coffee corner
Found just a stone’s throw away from Tung Chung’s Citygate Outlets is the Tung Chung Public Library. Up on the second floor, you’ll be greeted by a row of bamboo plants that will lead you down to an airy leisure reading area. Here, you’ll find tables by the window and a small coffee corner with a couple of vending machines for drinks.
Tung Chung Public Library, G & 1/F, Tung Chung Municipal Services Building, 39 Man Tung Road, Tung Chung, Lantau Island, Hong Kong, www.hkpl.gov.hk
Read More: Your Neighbourhood Guide To Tung Chung
Main image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons, image 1 courtesy of Wikimedia Commons, image 2 courtesy of Wikimedia Commons, image 3 courtesy of Wikimedia Commons, image 4 courtesy of Wikimedia Commons, image 5 courtesy of Wikimedia Commons, image 6 courtesy of Nicole Moraleda for Sassy Media Group.
