Junk Bookstore in KL
With technology making eBooks and digital prints so easily accessible, visiting bookstores has become a rarity for most of us. It’s no surprise then, that secondhand bookstores like Junk Bookstore are finding it increasingly tough to keep their doors open.
Tucked away on Jalan H.S. Lee in Kuala Lumpur, the longest-running secondhand bookstore in our country is filled with an eclectic mix of genres for anyone eager to escape into the world of books.
Working hard behind the scenes is caretaker Miss Yap, who has become known on the streets for her hustling ways and no-nonsense style of business. We paid the bookstore a visit to talk to the woman who has helped to keep the establishment alive for over 33 years.
A treasure trove of secondhand books
Image credit: @geovv_ via Instagram
Since 1990, Junk Bookstore has been the reigning champ of secondhand bookstores, boasting a jaw-dropping collection of over 3 million books. Inside, every corner of this 3-storey literary haven is a treasure trove full of gems waiting to be uncovered.
From quirky paperbacks to ancient gems – with the oldest dating all the way back to 1831 – it’s no wonder this unique book haunt snagged the title of Malaysia’s Largest Secondhand Bookstore in 1998, as crowned by the Malaysian Book of Records.
The store owner’s brother-in-law, whose love for all things antique – especially old books – sparked the business. He has since taken the reins from the original owner, but it’s hustler Ms Yap who’s been keeping the bookish magic alive and kicking in this place.
Curious to learn more about the caretaker, we were delighted to discover that she’s quite the friendly soul – Ms Yap greeted us warmly during our visit, even asking what books we were searching for and if we had anything specific in mind.
Ms Yap shared that the store boasts an impressive range of genres, including Western literature, regional Southeast Asian, history, and science.
What’s even more fascinating, she added, is that “some of these secondhand books are the very last printed copies”. So, if you’re on the lookout for rare classics in vintage editions, whether it’s Salinger or Miller, this bookstore has you well and truly covered.
As she led us through the time-worn bookshelves, she became our personal guide, helping us unearth elusive reads we’d be taking home with us.
We were intrigued to find out just how many books the caretaker had read during her years on the job – no surprise really, given she’s surrounded by millions of printed treasures. With a chuckle, Ms Yap admitted to us that she’s been here so long that she’s lost track of just how many books she’s devoured.
Watching the caretaker gracefully stroll through the maze of aisles with such ease, it is clear that she knows precisely where each genre is situated, showcasing her passion for literature and the bookstore. It goes without saying that she has become a guardian of these books.
A hotspot at Junk Bookstore
Those who are familiar with this secondhand bookstore probably know that it’s famous for its filmic second floor, which draw visitors in like moths to a flame.
The low-ceilinged, oval-shaped floor is lined with books along its walls, and practically brims with character – think the settings of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, where every nook feels like a scene waiting to unfold.
When you’re up here, keep your head on a swivel to avoid any unexpected bumps.
With the floorboards on the second floor already showing their age, it’s best to tread lightly as you stroll through here. But this area is worth wandering up to nonetheless for the books piled and lined up wherever space allows. To give you an idea of the range, you’ll find a delightful collection of Chinese magazines and comic books alongside academic tomes on medicine and history.
Intrigued about what awaits on the third floor, we asked Ms Yap about it. She revealed that it’s home to the shop’s most valuable and ancient texts. However, access is restricted to protect these precious volumes, some of which date back to pre-Independence Malaysia according to her.
Busting the myths about the caretaker
Our moment with Ms Yap revealed just how much she enjoys engaging with her customers and guiding them to the perfect book to take home. She shared that many of her customers come from all over the world, seeking out unique finds.
Our conversation with her quickly dispelled some patrons’ misconception that this secondhand bookstore’s caretaker is unapproachable. Clearly, she has made a lasting impression, not only for herself but also for the rare gems she guards so well.
She works hard to keep one of the last bookstores in Petaling Street thriving. With prices for books starting from just RM20, snagging a couple of them will land you some sweet discounts from her too.
Malaysia’s longest running secondhand bookstore in KL
With its rich collection and charming ambience, a visit to Junk Bookstore is sure to appeal to book lovers of all ages and walks of life.
As for the caretaker, you’ll realise that you really can’t judge a book by its cover. Unless you’re the type who comes to these places just for photos without any intention to patronise the business, you will be welcomed by Ms Yap and leave wanting to return soon.
You’ll be amazed at how this charming little KL bookstore manages to house such an extensive library within its four walls. A visit here is nothing short of an adventure, and who knows – you might just stumble upon your next prized possession here.
Address: 78, Jalan Tun H.S Lee, 50050, Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 8.30am-3pm (Closed on Sundays)
Contact: 03-2078 3822
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Cover image adapted from: @geovv_ via Instagram, TheSmartLocal Malaysia
Some quotes have been edited for brevity and clarity.
Photography by Yusintha.