Southeast Asia’s largest 24-hour bookstore has just opened in Kuala Lumpur

Going out past sunset in the city often means restaurants, bars, and clubs to the seasoned urbanite, but there’s a sore lack of spots to just sit and unwind in a peaceful, quiet place, no partying involved. Cafes close early, libraries aren’t open all night, and most other places are loud. What’s a night owl to do?

The Library by BookXcess offers a solution. The 38,000 square foot space is a bookstore that’s open 24/7 – the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia – with open reading corners, desks to work at, and tall shelves full of books to browse. Located in Kuala Lumpur’s Sunway Square Mall, it’s modern library meets gathering space, designed for night owls, late-night muggers, and wanderers to find peace and quiet in the busy city. Expect cushioned benches, rocking chairs, and study nooks complete with power sockets.

The sprawling store is warmly lit and full of art, spread across two floors and nearly a kilometer of walkways to meander down. You should, of course, take your time to explore its literary offerings, but do make sure to stop and notice its many sculptures, paintings, and installations. 

As if that’s not enough, it’s got snacks to fuel your 3am reading sessions. Inside, you’ll find Good Mojo Smoothies and the much beloved Kenny Hills Bakers for pastries, ice cream, and drinks while you browse or work.

The Library was originally designed as a library for students at the nearby Sunway University to work due to a lack of dedicated study spots on campus, and it eventually developed into a bookstore resembling a library. It was created, and still acts, as a community space.

The Library opened its doors on December 10, and can be found on the second floor of Sunway Square Mall.

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