Whether you want to dive into a world of fantasy or escape to a serene utopia, the books at these public libraries in Hong Kong have you covered.
While there is no shortage of quality bookstores in Hong Kong, I like to flip through a page or two of a book before making a purchase. So, if you’re planning to add new titles to your list of books to read, why not check them out from a public library in Hong Kong first? These municipal buildings are stocked from floor to ceiling with a diverse collection of fiction and nonfiction. Available in both English and Chinese, you’re guaranteed a successful book hunt. So, browse the shelves, check out your fave, and dive into your next read at the newest cafe or serene park.
Turn pages at these public libraries in Hong Kong
Public libraries on Hong Kong Island
1. City Hall Public Library
Located just outside of the bustling Central CBD, City Hall is perfect for worker bees seeking out their next page turner. Apart from the usual fiction and nonfiction collection, this library in Hong Kong also has a children’s corner as well as thematic collections available for loan. This includes books on Hong Kong law, business, culture, and history. There are also plenty of work areas and free Wi-Fi for those looking for a quiet place to check things off their to-do list.
Nearest MTR station: Central Station Exit K
Opening hours: Mon – Wed, Fri – Sun, 9am – 8pm; Thu, 12 – 8pm
Phone number: 2921 2555
Address: City Hall Public Library, 2 – 6/F and 8 – 11/F, City Hall High Block, Central, Hong Kong
2. Smithfield Public Library
If you’re a K-Town local, check out Smithfield Public Library. While this neighbourhood nook is not as expansive as others on this list, it does the job with what it offers. Inside, you’ll find an adult’s section with classic and common fiction and nonfiction titles, as well as a children’s library and reading corner. Smithfield also hosts community events from time to time, so keep an eye out on its website for updates.
Nearest MTR station: Kennedy Town Station Exit A
Opening hours: Mon – Wed, Fri – Sun, 10am – 7pm
Phone number: 2921 7106
Address: Smithfield Public Library, 3/F, Smithfield Municipal Services Building, 12K Smithfield, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong
3. Hong Kong Central Library
You’ve likely seen Hong Kong Central Library while going on a tram tour or cruising along main roads in Causeway Bay. This library in Hong Kong is the largest in the city, with 12 floors worth of shelves to browse! Sporting one of the most comprehensive book collections in the 852, you’ll find a diverse range of fiction and nonfiction books here. In particular, the map library, toy library, Hong Kong literature room, and rare books reading room are worth exploring.
Nearest MTR stations: Causeway Bay Station Exit F1 or Tin Hau Station Exit B
Opening hours: 10am – 9pm every day; closes at 7pm on public holidays
Phone number: 3150 1234
Address: Hong Kong Central Library, 66 Causeway Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
4. Chai Wan Public Library
Island East peeps, visit Chai Wan Public Library for some reading time. This spot offers a range of fiction and nonfiction titles, with separate areas for children and adults to hunker down with a good book. On the other hand, check out your volume of choice for enjoying in one of the green parks across the road. In addition to its book collection, the library also has a student study room for those who want a change of scenery when exam season rolls around.
Nearest MTR station: Chai Wan MTR Station Exit A
Opening hours: Mon, 12 – 8pm; Tue – Sat, 9am – 8pm; Sun and public holidays, 9am – 5pm
Phone number: 2921 5055
Address: Chai Wan Public Library, 4-5/F, Chai Wan Municipal Services Building, 338 Chai Wan Road, Chai Wan, Hong Kong
5. Aberdeen Public Library
Located in the laid-back neighbourhood of Aberdeen, Aberdeen Public Library offers a bright and spacious environment for bookworms to dive into a new book. You’ll find a complete collection of fiction and nonfiction titles for kids and grown-ups here. In addition, you can learn more about the culture and history of the Southern District at a designated corner. Here’s where you’ll find information and resources relating to Aberdeen’s fishing heritage, association with piracy, and much more.
How to get there: Find the full list of bus, cross-harbour bus, and Hong Kong Island green minibus routes on the website.
Opening hours: Mon, 12 – 8pm; Tue – Sat, 9am – 8pm; Sun and public holidays, 9am – 5pm
Phone number: 2921 1056
Address: Aberdeen Public Library, 3/F, Aberdeen Municipal Services Building, 203 Aberdeen Main Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong
Public libraries in Kowloon
6. Tsim Sha Tsui Public Library
Situated opposite the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Tsim Sha Tsui Public Library is a fave for students in the neighbourhood. Since this mainly caters to those seeking a change of scenery from libraries within PolyU, you’ll find limited facilities here. An adequate collection of fiction, nonfiction, and academic texts line the shelves, while a self-printing service is also available.
Nearest MTR station: Hung Hom Station Exit A
Opening hours: Mon – Wed, Fri, 10am – 7pm; Sat – Sun; 10am – 5pm; public holidays, 10am – 1pm
Phone number: 2926 1072
Address: Tsim Sha Tsui Public Library, 1/F., Concordia Plaza, 1 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
7. Shui Wo Street Public Library
This library in Hong Kong is a bit of a hidden gem. Located in the bustling heart of Kwun Tong, Shui Wo Street Public Library is within walking distance from glitzy shopping malls like YM Square and APM. You’ll find a comprehensive collection of fiction and nonfiction books here. Also available are multimedia libraries as well as a study area with photocopy services.
Nearest MTR station: Kwun Tong MTR Station Exit A1
Opening hours: Mon, 12 – 8pm; Tue – Sat, 9am – 8pm; Sun and public holidays, 9am – 5pm
Phone number: 2927 3055
Address: Shui Wo Street Public Library, 5 – 6/F, Shui Wo Street Municipal Services Building, 9 Shui Wo Street, Kwun Tong, Hong Kong
Public libraries in the New Territories
8. Sai Kung Public Library
Exploring Sai Kung? Why not add a good book to your neighbourhood excursions? Located within walking distance of the Sai Kung Pier, you’ll pass by this library in Hong Kong as you head further into town. Taking up a whole floor in the Sai Kung Government Offices, you can browse across a diverse collection on the shelves. Finally, with books suitable for grown-ups, teens, and kids, there’s bound to be something for everyone.
How to get there: Take the MTR Tseung Kwan O Line to Hang Hau Station for Exit B. Hop on one of the buses or green minibuses heading to Sai Kung.
Opening hours: 9:00 am-8:00 pm on Mondays to Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays | 12:00 pm-8:00 pm on Thursdays | 9:00 am-5:00 pm on Sundays and public holidays
Phone number: 2792 3669
Address: Sai Kung Public Library, 5/F, Sai Kung Government Offices, 34 Chan Man Street, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
9. Tuen Mun Public Library
If you’re unfamiliar with the New Territories, you’ll be surprised to know that there are many libraries here. Catering to the large residential population in the area, Tuen Mun Public Library offers an extensive and comprehensive collection, with fiction and nonfiction options for adults and kids! Finally, don’t forget to stop by the Culture and Historical Resources Corner to learn more about one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Hong Kong.
How to get there: Take the Light Rail for Tuen Mun Town Centre LRT Station or take the MTR Tuen Ma Line to Tuen Mun Station for Exit D.
Opening hours: 12:00 pm-8:00 pm on Mondays | 9:00 am-8:00 pm on Tuesdays to Saturdays | 9:00 am-5:00 pm on Sundays and public holidays
Phone number: 2450 0671
Address: Tuen Mun Public Library, 1 Tuen Hi Road, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong
Public libraries on the Outlying Islands
10. Tung Chung Public Library
There’s more to explore in Tung Chung than its outlet malls. Located across the street from Tung Chung MTR Station, this library is a local fave. Much like the rest of the neighbourhood, the library boasts a distinct family-friendly vibe. Here, you’ll find an extensive children’s and YA book collection for little ones to browse through. Additionally, Tung Chung Public Library also hosts family and children’s storytelling sessions in English and Cantonese. Simply keep an eye out for other regular interactive reading events on its website.
How to get there: Take the MTR Tung Chung Line for Tung Chung MTR Station Exit C. Find the full list of bus and green mini bus routes on the website.
Opening hours: Mon, 12 – 8pm; Tue – Sat, 9am – 8pm; Sun and public holidays, 9am – 5pm
Phone number: 2109 3011
Address: Tung Chung Public Library, G – 1/F Tung Chung Municipal Services Building, 39 Man Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hong Kong
11. Mui Wo Public Library
In recent years, this up-and-coming neighbourhood on Lantau Island has attracted many new residents. If you’re considering moving to Mui Wo – let’s be honest, the low rent prices are hard to beat! – you’ll be happy to know there’s a well-stocked library awaiting your discovery. Although more compact than others in Hong Kong, Mui Wo Public Library has everything you need for a top-notch reading experience.
How to get there: New Lantao Bus numbers 1, 3M, 4, and A35
Opening hours: Mon – Sat, 10am – 6pm; Sun and public holidays, 10am – 1pm; lunch time closure, 1 – 2pm
Phone number: 2984 7511
Address: Mui Wo Public Library, G/F, Mui Wo Municipal Services Building, 9 Ngan Shek Street, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
12. Tai O Public Library
Staycationing or camping in Tai O? Be sure to check out the library for a page turner to accompany your island getaway. Surrounded by housing estates, this location is a fave among local residents. You’ll find a comprehensive collection of books along its shelves. Whether you’re diving into a new fantasy world or working on your well-being with a self-help book, there’s bound to be something for you here.
How to get there: New Lantao Bus numbers 1, 11, and 21
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 10am – 6pm; Sat, 9am – 5pm; Sun and public holidays, 9am – 1pm; lunch time closure, 1 – 2pm
Phone number: 2985 5006
Address: Tai O Public Library, Shop No. 12, Commercial Centre, Lung Tin Estate, Tai O, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
What more insider tips to Hong Kong living? DM @honeycombershk on Instagram or drop me an email at celia.lee@thehoneycombers.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I access and borrow books from these public libraries?
Anyone with a Hong Kong ID card or a valid proof of residence can apply for a free library card. This card allows you to borrow books and other materials from any of the public libraries. The process is straightforward and can be completed at any branch.
Beyond books, what other services and facilities do Hong Kong's public libraries offer?
Hong Kong's public libraries offer more than just books. Many have dedicated computer terminals with free internet access, multimedia collections including DVDs and audiobooks, and quiet study areas. They also frequently host cultural events, workshops, and storytelling sessions for children.
Are the libraries in this guide suitable for visitors or tourists?
While a library card is required to borrow materials, visitors are welcome to enter and use the facilities for reading and studying. The libraries are excellent free-of-charge, air-conditioned spaces to rest, especially during hot or rainy weather.
