Libraries in Mumbai
The best thing about the libraries in Mumbai is that they aren’t hard to find. In fact, some of these century-old libraries are counted among the top touristy places too. Plus, you’ll find people reading a book everywhere you go, whether it be the benches behind Prithvi theatre or along the shore of Marine drive. And quite a few of those books are probably issued from one of the best libraries in Mumbai.
But you know what? Even though there are plenty of libraries, not every library will suit your taste. And let’s be real, you don’t wanna be traveling around the city (Mumbaikers will know) looking for the perfect one every other day. Like who has that kinda time, right? We know you don’t. Thanks to your pending assignments (or excel sheets) and the million chores that come along with managing a place on your own. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you out. Cuz that’s what we do – we make things easier for you at our Stanza Living managed apartments. We provide you with professional housekeeping, seamless wifi, and 24×7 security. So you can save time and live life hassle-free. Plus, we’re always pumped up to assist you with anything that you need. Like compiling this list of the best libraries in the city (including Central Library, Mumbai of course) for you to visit. So the only thing left for you to do is bookmark this button, note down these names and carve your own place among the many, many, many literature geeks of the city!
Best Libraries in Mumbai in 2022
The top 10 libraries in Mumbai for you to visit:
- Asiatic Library Shahid, Bhagat Singh Road
- David Sassoon Library, Kala Ghoda
- British Council Library, Elphinstone Road
- Maharashtra Mitra Mandal Library, Bandra West
- Trilogy Library Bookstore, Lower Parel
- JN Petit Library, DN Road
- Leaping Windows, Versova
- People Free Reading Library, Marine Lines
- NCPA Library, Nariman Point
- The American Library, Bandra- Kurla Complex
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Asiatic Library, Shahid Bhagat Singh Road
The Asiatic Library, also known as Central Library, Mumbai, is 200 years old. You’ll find some of the rarest manuscripts here. And the earliest editions of Indian newspapers and magazines too. Basically, if Indiana Jones was based out of Mumbai, this would be his favorite place to hang out for sure.
David Sassoon Library, Kala Ghoda
David Sassoon Library is home to 70,000 books. Some of those are written in rare Indian languages that were probably last recorded 150 years ago when the library’s building was constructed. But that’s not all, you can even read a book on one of its famous balconies. Now, non-bookworms might not get the charm of reading a book on a balcony. But that’s what makes it so special, isn’t it?
British Council Library, Elphinstone Road
The British Council Library is one of the finest libraries in the country, and not just in Mumbai. Apart from its staggering collection of books, you’ll also get exclusive access to rare theatre and film recordings. Perfect for aspiring scriptwriters and playwrights looking for inspiration to write the next Casablanca. Or Hera-Pheri. Whatever floats their boat.
Maharashtra Mitra Mandal Library, Bandra West
Another one of the top public libraries in Mumbai is the MCubed Library. And it’s not just about reading books. The library also organizes regular discussions and hosts an extravagant literary festival every year. Basically, the MCubed Literary festival is the bite-sized version of the Jaipur Literary Festival, with as much substance but less hype.
Trilogy Library, Bookstore Lower Parel
If you’re looking for a more contemporary and elegant reading space, look no further than the Trilogy Library Bookstore. The space has wooden flooring with large windows, relaxing furniture, and a dope coffee machine. So if you feel your cramped Mumbai apartment does not have the right vibe for reading, type in Trilogy Library Bookstore’ on your Uber app and book your ride asap.
JN Petit Library, DN Road
The moment you enter Dadabhai Naoroji Road in Mumbai, the sight of the JN Petit Library will leave you mesmerized. The structure of the building is inspired by British abbeys. And the interiors are lined with gigantic pillars and gorgeous chandeliers. Basically, everything about the JN Petit Library looks like it came straight from a Jane Austen novel.
Leaping Windows, Versova
Leaping Windows is all about comics and pop culture. The interior walls are full of murals inspired by manga. And just like their walls, you’ll find plenty of manga on their bookshelves too. Now, we don’t know much about manga, but if you’re someone who frequently uses the Sharingan filter (from Naruto) on Instagram, this is where you take your fandom a step further.
People Free Reading Library, Marine Lines
The thing about People Free Reading Library is that it archives the writings of the British era. Whether be the works of pre-independence novelists or the newspapers that existed at that time. In fact, the library has a separate room for just newspapers. Basically, visiting this library is like entering a time machine. And some people say that such a time machine is important to debunk the fake historical facts in circulation nowadays.
NCPA Library, Nariman Point
One of the best libraries in Mumbai, the NCPA library is famous for its books on music, theatre, dance, and art. It’s often packed with a crowd doing film and theatre studies. So if you’re someone who often spends time visiting cinephile pages like Gangs of Cinepur’ on Instagram, a visit to this place will be like a field trip for you.
The American Library, Bandra- Kurla Complex
The American Library houses some of the best American writings. You’ll find everything from American art and business magazines to scientific journals and periodicals. Also, it offers plenty of audiobooks archiving the most famous speeches in history. So if you dream of becoming a Tedx Speaker one day, you can start your prep from right here.
Checkout Libraries in Other Cities
FAQs on Libraries in Mumbai
Which are the Best Libraries in Mumbai?
Well, these are the best libraries in Mumbai for sure:
- The Asiatic Library
- David Sassoon Library
- Trilogy library and bookstore
How many Libraries are there in Mumbai?
Believe it or not, there are more than 300 libraries in Mumbai. So no matter where you live in the city, you’ll always find a library close by.
Which is the Oldest Library in Mumbai?
The Asiatic Library which is also known as Central Library, Mumbai is the oldest one in the city.
