The best English-language libraries and bookstores in Brussels

What are the best English-language libraries and bookstores in Brussels? We often receive this question from the newcomers but also from locals and long-time expats. Here is the list of places that have a good stock of books and magazines in English.

1. Muntpunt. Dutch-language public library in the centre of Brussels offers a wide variety of books in English. It also boasts a good choice of magazines and periodicals. The library also has a lot of different spaces and offers a good place for reading and studying. Muntpunt is located right next to the La Monnaie, the Opera building.
   
2. Waterstones – probably a biggest English bookstore in Brussels, with biggest selection of books and magazines. Located in the city centre (Adolphe Max 71-75) on the way from Rogier to De Brouckere.
   
3. Sterling books – this is an independent shop featuring a variety of fiction & non-fiction English language books for all ages. Located in Rue du Fossé aux Loups 23, close to the new WOLF food market.
   
4. Pele Mele. This is a second-hand bookstore with several locations in the city – Brussels, Ixelles and Waterloo. They offer a very interesting selection of English books, often acquired from diplomats and other professional expats who had to move to new posts.
   
5. Tulibris in Ixelles. Located just near the Fernand Coq square, this bookstore offers a good selection of second-hand English books.
   
6. Passa Porta bookshop. It is also the international house of literature, this place is one of Belgium’s best multilingual bookshops. There is a good selection of English language books from novels and poetry to children’s books and non-fiction.
   
   We also suggest to check these places:
   
7. Librebook. A different concept of the bookstore – offers a selection of contemporary fiction in about 20 European languages. Many titles are available in English, especially translations from less know literature and authors. Here you can find a unique mix of books, from local Belgian Flemish and French-speaking literature to those in Maltese or Luxembourgish. The bookstore favours multicultural experiences in literature so it also includes authors with diverse backgrounds, such as writers from non-European origins writing in French or Dutch, or authors from Spanish or Slavic origins writing in German…
   
8. Oxfam store in Ixelles. It offers some a selection of second-hand English books
   
9. Filigranes. A mainly french-language bookstore but has a selection of English language books. Located near Arts Loi metro station.