The Beijing Bookworm

The Beijing Bookworm is something of a treat in a city where English books are hard to come by. In this large, 3 roomed open-plan establishment, you can buy books, loan books from the library, use the internet, or have something to eat or drink as you while away the hours browsing books and magazines. The Bookworm also hosts regular events such as book talks and guest speakers, which are well-advertised in any of the local expat rags or the Bookworm website. 

 

There are a wide range of books to choose from including a China section, travel books, fiction and non-fiction as well as a handful of magazine favourites such as Vogue, Harpers Bazaar and Vanity Fair. If the book you’re looking for is not available the Bookworm will happily order it for you. If it’s language books you are after (for example Chinese books or text books for teaching English) you’re better off going to the Foreign Languages Bookstore in Wangfujing which has a wide selection of each.

 

Only Beijing Bookworm members can use the library facility and attend the special events such as book talks. However, you don’t need to be a member to browse, buy books or eat. 

 

Membership fees per year are as follows:

Individual one year:            300 yuan (membership extension thereafter is 250 yuan)

Individual half year:            200 yuan (extension 150 yuan)

Family membership:         500 yuan (extension 500 yuan)

 

The menu is Western style including mainly sandwiches and soups. Although it is a little pricy, it is tasty nonetheless.