World Book Day is celebrated on 23 April, and Joburg definitely isn’t missing out on the festivities. Many bookstores and libraries will be hosting special events on the day to encourage the enjoyment of books and reading. Here are the spots in the city to get your fix of all things literature.
Exclusive Books
One of South Africa’s most established and most loved book stores, Exclusive Books offers everything from children’s fiction to celebrity cookbooks. This is a great spot for families on World Book Day, as kids can explore colourful book displays while adults can browse through the ever-popular crime and thriller section—or whatever their favourite genre is!
This year, they have decided to celebrate the day with a family reading session at many of their branches, including Cresta, Melrose Arch, Mall of the South, and Mall of Africa. Limited spaces are available for this hour-long reading session, so make sure you head over to their website to book your spot!
Details: Website | +27 87 365 4677 | [email protected] | Facebook | Instagram
Bargain Books
Bargain Books is South Africa’s leading discount book retailer, so this is the place to be if you want to celebrate World Book Day without breaking the bank. They are known for discounted bestsellers, children’s books at accessible prices, and having a relaxed, browsing-friendly environment.
While they have not yet announced any events for World Book Day this year, they are sure to have something fun happening in-store on the day, even if it’s just mega-discounts. So, pop into your nearest branch, and you’ll likely be able to celebrate by picking up more than one of the books on your wishlist.
Details: Website | +27 21 706 1461 | [email protected] | Facebook | Instagram
CUM Books
CUM Books offers faith-based literature, making it an ideal place to celebrate World Book Day in a more spiritual way. Here you can find devotionals, children’s Bible stories, and inspirational books.
Their stores provide a calm, welcoming environment, and they host occasional community-focused events or readings. At this store, World Book Day is celebrated by encouraging reading as a tool for personal growth and spiritual connection.
Details: Website | +27 860 110 321 | [email protected] | Facebook | Instagram
Reader’s Warehouse
Another budget-friendly book retailer, Reader's Warehouse, offers a wide selection of books across genres, including children’s box sets and picture books. They have a strong focus on kids’ reading, so this is the ultimate spot to take the kiddies on World Book Day.
They have yet to announce any special events for the day, but keep an eye out on their social media, or just visit your nearest branch on the day!
Details: Website | +27 21 705 6812 | [email protected] | Facebook | Instagram
Florida Community Library
The Florida Library will host a special celebration of World Book Day with inspiring conversations about books, storytelling, and the publishing journey.
Guest speakers will include author, actress, and producer, Salamina Mosese, and Oxford University Press will provide insights into the publishing industry. Spaces are limited, so make sure you RSVP to [email protected] to secure your spot!
Details: Website | Cnr Church Street &, 3rd Ave, Florida, Johannesburg | +27 11 375 6463
World Book Day Workshop for Local Authors
Calling all local authors! Joburg Libraries will host an interactive hybrid workshop in collaboration with the Gauteng Provincial Library Services on World Book Day. The workshop will focus on reclaiming knowledge about writing, the role of libraries, and author support organisations.
The event will feature presentations by various stakeholders, and discussions will include publishing processes, the role of booksellers, and acquisitions and collection development by libraries. What makes this event even better is that it will also be streamed online, so even those without transport can attend!
The workshop will take place on 23 April from 10:00 am to 1:30 pm at the Brixton Multipurpose Centre in Mayfair. RSVP to [email protected] for in-person attendance; online attendance will be via MS Teams at this link.
Details: Website | Brixton Multipurpose Centre, 78 Foyle Ave, Mayfair West, Johannesburg | [email protected] | Facebook
Joburg offers plenty of ways to celebrate World Book Day, whether it’s browsing for bargains, exploring spiritual reads, or attending an inspirational workshop. So, get out your reading glasses and head over to one of these literature-rich spots on 23 April!