There are public libraries in Kuwait; however, each has a limited number of titles in English and a 10KD deposit is required each time you borrow a book. The Kuwait University main library on the Shuwaikh campus (http://jacl.kuniv.edu.kw/ is recommended (hours listed http://library.kuniv.edu.kw/) for having the largest selection of books in English in Kuwait. It has really nice architecture, too.

There is also the new Al Babtain Central Library for Arabic Poetry (with over 72,000 books specializing in Arabic poetry) back from the Gulf Road next to the Ministry of Planning. The British Council is located in Mansouriya near the Co op on Al Arabi Street opposite the sports stadium.

In the basement is a lending library which has a good variety of books, children’s books and videos. Anyone can join with an application form and small fee. Telephone:2 251 5512.

There are 3 book stores and one used book store in Kuwait:

1. Family Bookshop in Salmiya, Tel. 2571 4340, Fax 2573 7392. The oldest book store in Kuwait. The management is very helpful.

2. Kuwait Bookshop in the basement of the Al-Muthanna Complex in the city, Tel. 2242 4266, Fax 22420558. Big selection, but it’s in a mall.

3. Al Jahir Book Store. Has a lot of other material like office supplies – next to an entertainment park (Hawalli Park) on Tunis Street in Hawalli. tel 2261 0111. Saturday to Wednesday 0900-1300 and 1630-2030, Thursday 0900-1300 and 1630-2300, Friday 1630-2300.

4. Kuwait Books(tel 2245 7505/6) which despite its smaller stock buys, sells and trades books. Nice atmosphere.