English bookstores in Luxembourg
In this article we will talk about where to find books in English in Luxembourg, why they are so popular and how much English is generally in demand in Luxembourg.
Did you know that English is the second most-spoken language in the world, trailing just behind Mandarin? With over 840 million people speaking English as a first or second language, it's no wonder that it has become a global phenomenon. In fact, a staggering one-fourth of the world's population can converse in English to some extent.
Why English is so popular
English is a language that constantly expands its horizons. Each year, around 4,000 new words make their way into the dictionary, keeping us on our toes. So, don't be surprised if you come across some intriguing new words during your exploration of English bookstores in Luxembourg.
But it's not just spoken English that has a significant impact. In the digital realm, over 80% of the information stored on computers worldwide is in English. It seems like English has claimed its digital throne, reigning over the vast expanse of data and knowledge.
Are you looking to study Luxembourgish or other languages, broadly used in Luxembourg, including English? Read our article about language courses and schools in the Grand Duchy and choose a perfect starting point:
Ways to learn Luxembourgish: courses, schools, language centers
Now that we've set the stage with these intriguing tidbits, let's immerse ourselves in the enchanting world of English bookstores in the heart of Luxembourg.
Where to find English literature in the country
When you are looking for books in English, there are several options to choose from in the Grand Duchy. First, you can simply always buy a new book in one of many bookstores specializing in English-language literature.
Second, you can save a few trees and use library resources or some of many book-swapping initiatives. The third option is for those, who have very specific tastes in literature and are looking for particular books, that are hard to find on the shelves. Then, the only option is to buy English books online with delivery in Luxembourg.
The usual cost of the book in Luxembourg varies depending on the book itself, but as a rule, you can buy a hardcover book for 15-30 euros, and soft pocket version English books will cost you around 10-20 euros. Special editions and bestsellers can cost you 50 euros and more.
English language bookstores: online and offline
Luxembourg, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and love for literature, boasts a plethora of bookstores catering to English language enthusiasts.
It's no surprise that reading is a cherished activity among the Luxembourgish people, as evident from surveys conducted between 2008 and 2015 across 18 European countries.
While Estonia takes the crown for spending the most time reading per day, with an average of 13 minutes, Luxembourg finds itself in the middle of the chart, with an average of 6 minutes a day. Comparatively, countries like Romania, Austria, and Italy hover around the five-minute mark, while France falls at the bottom end of the charts, with a mere two minutes devoted to reading per day.
Despite the variations, the abundance of English bookstores in Luxembourg reflects the country's appreciation for the written word and provides ample opportunities for literary exploration both offline and online.
Opening its doors on May 30, 2015, this bookstore is dedicated solely to catering to the literary cravings of English language enthusiasts and while the other bookstores within the Ernster group offer an extensive selection of books in French, German, English, and Luxembourgish.
From classic literature to gripping bestsellers, from travel guides to young adult fiction, and captivating biographies to thought-provoking non-fiction history books, there is something for every reader's taste.
They also offer the convenience of online book ordering. Orders of 25 euros or more qualify for free shipping!
At Alinéa, you can not only lose yourself in captivating reads but also enjoy their cozy reading corner equipped with a coffee machine. And if you have a passion for vinyl, you're in luck, as Alinéa is also a go-to place for picking up new records.
With reviews on Facebook, this bookstore has earned a remarkable 4.5 out of 5 rating from a base of 111 ratings.
Beyond reading, the store organizes captivating events in its conference room, covering exciting topics that delve deeper into the realms of personal growth and enlightenment.
Additionally, Little English Bookworm goes beyond book sales, providing a range of private one-to-one lessons, reading support, and personalized book recommendations, all aimed at supporting children in their English development and fostering their enjoyment of the language.
As a testament to their commitment, they offer free shipping within Luxembourg, making it even more convenient.
From early-age children's books to more complex works for seasoned readers, this Luxembourg bookstore offers a wide selection of books for all ages with different books available for each subject and academic level. What's more, their books are available in multiple languages, catering to a diverse audience.
In addition to their extensive book collection, they go beyond textbooks providing access to over 450 press titles in various fields and languages, offering a wealth of knowledge and information. Moreover, the store also boasts a wide range of stationery items tailored to the needs of students.
You can also order online, and they offer free delivery within Luxembourg for orders exceeding 30 euros.
Libraries and second-hand English books in Luxembourg
In addition to purchasing books, Luxembourg offers a vibrant library scene where book enthusiasts can indulge in literary treasures. The National Library of Luxembourg, Cité Bibliothèque, and Il était une fois are just a few examples of the remarkable libraries available in the country. These libraries provide a multitude of options for book lovers, allowing them to explore a vast collection of books and other content on-site or borrow them for a few days, even taking them home.
It's important to keep in mind that the option of borrowing books for home use and accessing digital content is reserved for individuals residing in Luxembourg or the surrounding border areas.
With a collection of over 1.8 million physical documents covering various fields of knowledge and a good part of them in English, the National Library houses a wealth of information. These resources are available for borrowing, on-site consultation, or even online access.
On-site reading
Home borrowing
What is Bicherbus?
Finally, for those residing in the communes outside of Luxembourg City, the Bicherbus offers a convenient and accessible option for accessing books and resources.
Bicherbus is a mobile library that covers the entire country with 15 weekly tours, serving over 80 Luxembourgish localities. With a collection of approximately 70,000 books, DVDs, and audiobooks for all age groups, the Bicherbus offers reading materials for leisure, continuous education, and cultural enrichment.
Stay updated with the Bicherbus schedule on the Bicherbus dedicated page and embark on a literary adventure brought right to your community.
At the Cité Bibliothèque, you can explore a vast selection of books and audiobooks including novels, crime fiction, non-fiction works, literature, and periodicals in four languages: English, Luxembourgish, French, and German.
Registration is free for residents of Luxembourg, granting access to borrow up to four books and two audiobooks for a month, while DVDs can be borrowed every week.
With a focus on both English and French literature, Bouquins Malins offers a wide range of second-hand books at a flat rate of 3 euros per book. To make a purchase, simply visit their online store.
You have two options for paying and receiving your books:
- Online payment for courier delivery with delivery fees and shipped within 5-9 days.
- Online payment for hand-to-hand delivery with no additional fees. If you choose this option you need to contact them via email to arrange a convenient delivery location in Luxembourg.
Please note that if you have any specific inquiries about a book's condition, you can reach out to them directly.
For a nominal fee of 30 euros, your entire family gains access to a virtual membership card which allows you to borrow books and attend their events.
It's worth noting that "Il était une fois…" operates as a non-profit organization and welcomes volunteers who share a passion for children's literature and promoting a love of reading.
You can find such corners in many parts of the country. Here are just a few of them:
How do book-swap corners work?
- If you're captivated by a particular book, feel free to borrow it and enjoy its pages either on-site or in the comfort of your own home.
- Once you've savored its contents, you can return it to the cabinet or choose to keep it.
- In the spirit of sharing, you can also replace the book with another captivating read from your own collection.
These book-swap corners serve as a remarkable opportunity for book owners to "recycle" their beloved reads in a civic-minded manner, granting them a second life and offering residents and visitors alike the chance to acquire books at no cost.
Book fairs in Luxembourg and neighboring countries
Luxembourg and its neighboring countries offer a delightful array of book fairs, showcasing the love for literature and knowledge. Among the prominent events are the renowned Walfer Bicherdeeg, a cherished annual book fair held in Walferdange, and the internationally acclaimed Frankfurt Book Fair in Germany.
These vibrant gatherings bring together avid readers, authors, and publishers, offering a treasure trove of books across various genres and languages with a wide range of content in English.
The Walfer Bicherdeeg, the largest book fair in Luxembourg and the Greater Region is a highly anticipated event that takes place in Walferdange the second or third weekend in November.
Since 1995, this book fair has been a haven for bibliophiles, offering a unique opportunity to explore new and used books, meet authors, publishers, and other literary figures, visit exhibitions, and participate in reading sessions, conferences, and concerts.
The fair is divided into multiple halls, each with its distinct offerings. One hall is dedicated to the bustling used book market. Here you can uncover hidden gems and novels to accompany them through cozy winter evenings by the fireside.
Another hall showcases publishers and authors. Here they are presenting their latest publications, providing a chance to interact with them and even have books signed.
Finally, there is a section called Books for Kids. In this section, beautifully decorated stands beckon visitors to explore a world of children's literature.
In addition to a wide range of readings for all age groups, the Walfer Bicherdeeg features numerous workshops for young book enthusiasts. The event is not only about books but also offers a convivial atmosphere for families and friends.
The Frankfurt Book Fair (Frankfurter Buchmesse) is the world's largest trade fair for the publishing industry. It’s held annually for five days in mid-October in Frankfurt-am-Main in Germany.
This huge fair brings together approximately 300,000 visitors and 7,000 exhibitors from 100 different countries and has been a fixture in Frankfurt for around 500 years, making it a significant and longstanding event in the publishing world.
The announcement of the Nobel Prize in Literature often takes place during the fair, adding to its importance and creating excitement among attendees and publishers alike.
During the first three days, the fair is exclusively accessible to trade visitors, while on Saturday and Sunday, it opens its doors to the public. The fair serves as a platform for publishers, authors, and industry professionals to showcase their latest works, discuss trends, and engage in networking opportunities.
Each year, the fair highlights a guest of honor, focusing on the literature of a particular country or region. This provides a special emphasis and recognition of the literary tradition and cultural richness of the chosen nation.
For example, in the upcoming fair of 2023, Slovenia has been designated as the Guest of Honour, offering a glimpse into its multilingual literary heritage and showcasing its attractions as a travel destination.
The Frankfurt Book Fair serves as a vibrant hub for the global publishing community, fostering international collaboration, literary exchange, and the exploration of new ideas and stories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which bookstores in Luxembourg offer a selection of English books
Where can I attend author signings or literary events in Luxembourg
Are there any bookstores in Luxembourg that have a dedicated children's section with English books
Source: www.ernster.com, www.scarabaeus.lu, www.littleenglishbookworm.com, www.librairiedeslycees.lu, bnl.public.lu, www.bibnet.lu, www.a-z.lu, bimu.lu, www.bouquinsmalins.com, www.iletaitunefois.lu, www.vdl.lu, bicherdeeg.lu, walfer.lu, www.buchmesse.de
We took photos from these sources: Ernster website Alinea Instagram Page Scarabeus website Little English Bookworm Facebook Page Librairie des Lycées Google Maps Photos National Library of Luxembourg Instagram page Cité Bibliothéque on Google Maps, photo by Johan Kristensson Bouquin Malin Facebook page Il était une fois Ville du Luxembourg website, John Michael Thomson on Unsplash
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