Here are some of the most famous libraries in Istanbul, along with one beloved book market for true book lovers.
Salt Galata
While walking in Beyoglu district and eating a fabulous simit, your eyes will probably fall on an old breathtaking building on Bankalar Street called Salt Galata. If you see it, here is some simple advice: enter immediately.
Salt Galata is surely one of the most beautiful buildings in Istanbul. It used to serve the Imperial Ottoman Bank, but later it became a research library and archive. It also has a gallery, cafe, restaurant, a museum of old banking notes that belonged to the Imperial Ottoman Bank, and a bookstore with local and international books. It is an amazing place to visit, especially if you are already exploring nearby areas such as Galata Tower.
Vitali Hakko Creative Industries Library
Located in Nakkastepe on the Asian side of Istanbul, specifically at the main building of Vakko Fashion Center, this library is a little far from the heart of Istanbul but totally worth it. The creative architecture, interior design, and calm atmosphere are soothing to the nerves.
It contains hundreds of books and reading materials about fashion, art, design, architecture, and films. Vitali Hakko Creative Industries Library is a place you will not regret spending time in, especially if your interests go beyond general reading and into visual culture and creative studies.
Istanbul libraries with iconic views: Ataturk Library
Ataturk Library was chosen as Turkey's most famous and, for many people, one of the best libraries in Istanbul.
It was built in 1939 but moved to its current location in 1973 in Beyoglu district. What makes it special is its 24/7 available service, its 500 thousand publications, and its research theses. Ataturk Library is considered one of the richest libraries in Istanbul, with one of the largest magazine collections. It contains old publications in Arabic, English, and Ottoman that go back to the Ottoman Empire period.
The walls are filled with wide windows that allow you to sit, read, drink your Turkish coffee, and enjoy a beautiful view of the Bosphorus. For travelers planning a scenic day in the city, this pairs nicely with a Bosphorus Cruise.
Beyazit State Library
Some claim that Beyazit State Library is Turkey's first library. Everyone agrees, however, that it was built in 1884 during the Ottoman Empire period, specifically during Sultan Abdulhamid II's reign, so it is considered a historical library in Istanbul.
The library has been open since its construction, but it later went through a restoration project that added modern details while preserving its old spirit.
It contains important and rare publications from the Ottoman period. Some are written in Arabic, English, Persian, and Ottoman, and some publications are reserved in small glass cabins.
Visiting Beyazit Library is more like a historical journey, but you can also sit, read a book, or study there. Since it is close to the old city, it can also fit naturally into a route that includes Sultanahmet Square.
The Central Library of Istanbul University
This library is well known for its green garden and big historical buildings, and it is considered one of the most important libraries in Turkey. One reason is its rare publications, some of which go back to the 15th century, the century when Istanbul University was established. These materials were translated into Turkish as well as other languages like Arabic, English, and French.
The library is also considered an important source for theses and research articles. For students, academics, and serious readers, it represents the scholarly side of Istanbul's reading culture.
If you want broader historical context for these institutions and the city they belong to, you can also check Istanbul-related references on Britannica or official culture resources in Turkey on GoTürkiye.
Sahaflar Carsisi (Book Market)
Libraries are not the only attractive places for reading fans in Istanbul. There is also the mighty book market. It is not a place to sit and relax, because it is usually crowded, but it is certainly an attractive stop for book lovers.
Sahaflar Carsisi is an open book market located in Beyazit Square and has been in service since Byzantine times, something you can absolutely feel from the old setting it operates in. This market contains books on different topics, from different countries, and in different languages.
It is not only a place to buy new books. You can also find second-hand booksellers if you are interested in saving some money. Once you enter this market, you will definitely get lost among books and publications.
Some stores also sell antiques and small gifts. The book market is a place where you may find almost any kind of book you want, and if not, you can ask a seller to bring it specially for you. It is truly an amazing place to visit in Istanbul, especially for anyone who enjoys browsing, collecting, or simply being surrounded by books.
