Hanoi Central Library
A serene public library in Hanoi offering a vast collection of books and a quiet escape for readers and students.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for focus
Hanoi Central Library
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for focus
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene public library in Hanoi offering a vast collection of books and a quiet escape for readers and students.
"It's cool, clean. You could sit everywhere, in the room, in the hallway… "
Bring your own power bank! :battery:
Limited electrical outlets mean you'll want to keep devices charged for longer stays.
Consider a reading card :bookmark:
If you just want to read on-site, the 'Reading Card' is the most economical option.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Diverse Book Collections
All floors
Explore a vast array of books, newspapers, and magazines covering various fields, including a special Korean section.
Dedicated Children's Floor
Fourth Floor
A welcoming space for young readers, offering a great environment for kids to discover the joy of books.
Quiet Reading Spaces
Various rooms and hallways
Find peaceful nooks throughout the library to immerse yourself in reading, away from the city bustle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Quiet Study & Reading Haven
Membership & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring your own power bank! :battery:
Limited electrical outlets mean you'll want to keep devices charged for longer stays.
Consider a reading card :bookmark:
If you just want to read on-site, the 'Reading Card' is the most economical option.
Check opening hours :clock1:
The library is typically open Tuesday to Saturday, 8 AM to 4 PM.
Quiet is key :speaker_with_three_beeping_lines:
This is a public library; maintain a quiet atmosphere for everyone's enjoyment.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring your own power bank! :battery:
Limited electrical outlets mean you'll want to keep devices charged for longer stays.
Consider a reading card :bookmark:
If you just want to read on-site, the 'Reading Card' is the most economical option.
Check opening hours :clock1:
The library is typically open Tuesday to Saturday, 8 AM to 4 PM.
Quiet is key :speaker_with_three_beeping_lines:
This is a public library; maintain a quiet atmosphere for everyone's enjoyment.
Laptop use is tricky :computer:
Wi-Fi and power are scarce, so plan accordingly if you need to work.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Hanoi Central Library as a cool, clean, and quiet public space with a vast book collection, especially for children. However, the lack of Wi-Fi and power outlets makes it challenging for laptop users, and some have noted less-than-ideal service attitudes.
"I come here every time I need space for myself. As a public library, there’s a lot of books in any field, of course, newspapers, magazines as well. It’s cool, clean.
You could sit everywhere, in the room, in the hallway…
There’s 3 kinds of card: “Reading Card”, “Borrowing Card” and “Reading and Borrowing Card”.
You need your id card or Passport to register. And it’s easy and quick to get one.
- 20k/a year for “Reading Card”
- “Borrowing Card” is 20k for the card and 300k/a year for deposit the book.
- “Borrowing and Reading” same fee as “Borrowing Card”
Your Borrowing fee will refund when you return books, card, and the deposit check.
They open from Tuesday to Saturday, 8a.m to 16p.m.
The first floor is Korean space, there’s books about Korean culture, books for kids…
The second floor is Borrowing area.
I usually sit in the third floor.
The fourth floor is for the kids."
Linh Phi
"Friendly and supportive staff. Great place for kids to read and enjoy books"
UP
"You need to submit an annual fee by the time you walk in. This place is suitable with people looking for books and quiet air. If you want to use your laptop here, well, forget about it. There is no wifi available and much worse, no electric socket!! Internet counter is available (on 4th floor?) but only free for 1st hour; after that you have to pay high fee. The service attitude is not good at all. I went there only once and never come back."
Daisy KNIA
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hanoi Central Library is centrally located in the city. You can easily reach it by taxi, ride-sharing apps like Grab, or local buses. Many visitors find it a convenient stop while exploring nearby attractions.
Parking options can be limited in central Hanoi. It's advisable to use ride-sharing services or public transport to avoid parking hassles.
For solo travelers, using Grab or a local motorbike taxi is often the most efficient and affordable way to navigate Hanoi's streets to reach the library.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the library itself is generally free, but to borrow books or use specific services, you'll need to register for a membership card.
Membership cards have a small annual fee, with options for reading-only, borrowing, or both. The 'Reading Card' is very affordable at around 20,000 VND per year.
You'll need your ID card or passport to register for a membership. The process is usually quick and straightforward.
The library is typically open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 8 AM to 4 PM. It's closed on Sundays and Mondays.
While you can bring a laptop, be aware that Wi-Fi is not widely available, and electrical outlets are scarce. It's not ideal for extended work sessions.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
The library boasts a wide selection of books, newspapers, and magazines across various subjects. There's also a dedicated Korean section and children's literature.
It can be, especially if you don't need constant Wi-Fi or power. The quiet atmosphere is conducive to focused study, but be prepared for limited amenities.
Yes, the fourth floor is specifically designed for children, offering a great space for them to read and explore books.
The library is generally cool and clean, providing a quiet environment for reading and study.
There's an internet counter, but it's usually free only for the first hour, after which there's a fee. Wi-Fi is not generally available throughout the library.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. While some visitors have shared photos online,+1 it's always best to check with staff upon arrival to ensure you're following any guidelines. Be mindful of others' privacy.
The architecture and the rows of books offer visually appealing backdrops. Look for well-lit areas and interesting book displays.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧑💻 Students & Freelancers (with caveats)
📚 Book Lovers & Readers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Library Membership
If your intention is to take books home, you'll need a 'Borrowing Card' or a 'Reading and Borrowing Card'. These cards involve a small fee for the card itself, plus an annual deposit. The deposit is refundable upon returning all borrowed books and the card. The process for obtaining a card is straightforward, requiring only your ID card or passport.
Remember that membership is essential for borrowing privileges. The staff are generally described as friendly and supportive, assisting visitors in choosing the right card and understanding the borrowing procedures.
The Digital Detox Experience
While there is an internet counter, its free usage is typically restricted to the first hour, with subsequent use incurring a fee. This setup encourages visitors to disconnect from their devices and immerse themselves in the physical act of reading or studying from books. It's a refreshing change for those seeking a break from constant connectivity.
This limitation, while inconvenient for some, is precisely what makes the library a haven for focused, uninterrupted study for others. It fosters an environment where the primary focus is on the printed word and quiet contemplation.
A Family-Friendly Literary Hub
Parents can find it a great spot to introduce their children to the joy of reading in a quiet and stimulating setting. The library's overall atmosphere, despite its limitations for digital work, is conducive to a peaceful outing for families looking for educational and relaxing activities.
While the library's primary function is reading and borrowing, the presence of a dedicated children's area makes it a valuable resource for families living in or visiting Hanoi. It provides a free or low-cost activity that encourages learning and imagination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit