Eliko Picture Books & Collectibles at Chinatown Complex
You might know all about Chinatown for its museums, cheap hotpot buffets, or this cool arcade that just opened down the block. But this fact might surprise you – there’s a tiny 65sqft indie bookstore called Eliko Picture Books & Collectibles that just made its presence known at Chinatown Complex.
Expect rare, out-of-print vintage books and foreign-language picture books that might just pique your interest. Plus, you can have some free coffee on the side while browsing, so read on to learn more about the bookstore and the passionate owner who built it.
Is it Singapore’s smallest bookstore?
We already have Basheer Graphic Books – the oldest indie bookstore in Bras Basah Complex, and now Eliko Picture Books & Collectibles enters the picture as what might just be one of Singapore’s smallest bookstores. Taking up just a cube-shaped nook in a corner of Chinatown Complex, that’s exactly what makes it feel so cosy and inviting.
Not only do you have a myriad of food options at Chinatown Complex Food Centre, but you can also head down to this fun-sized bookstore that’s just a 5-minute walk from Chinatown MRT Station after a hearty meal.
Out-of-print vintage & foreign-language books
Image credit: waihan hoe via Google
The shelves of this bookstore are packed with unique finds in various languages, including more than 700 picture books – many rare or no longer available elsewhere. You’ll also notice small, carefully arranged trinkets that seem to hold stories of their own.
Image adapted from: Mary Chin via LinkedIn
While not exactly a children’s bookstore – there are some classic children’s favourites like Me And My Captain, a 1974 classic by M.B. Goffstein, while others feature more grown-up themes in their illustrations. There’s also a lovely mix of vintage editions for you to indulge in.
Sit down, chat with the owner, & sip on a free cup of coffee
Image credit: Mary Chin via LinkedIn
Behind this cosy book nook is May Lin Au Yong, who’s currently a producer and has been a writer at Channel News Asia for over a decade. In addition to her media career, she also teaches part-time at Singapore Polytechnic – so you can imagine the kind of lively, insightful conversations you might have with her about her experiences.
May invites guests to sit back and relax in her little nook for just $8 an hour, with coffee included – a perfect perk for a midday break or an early-morning pick-me-up.
You can even skip the $8 entry fee by sharing a story with her that she can pass on to others – unsurprising, given her background in journalism.
How to get to Eliko Picture Books & Collectibles
Getting to Eliko Picture Books & Collectibles might be confusing to most people because it feels like navigating a maze through the many market stores – but fret not, it’s not as complicated as it seems.
Just follow one of the 3 routes in this simple guide posted by the bookstore:
Take note that opening hours will be updated every Monday and Tuesday on Eliko’s Instagram page – so if you’re planning to visit, do check if they’re open ahead of time.
Visit Eliko Picture Books & Collectibles
So there you have it – the smallest bookstore with a big heart, tucked away in the bustling Chinatown Complex. Whether you’re hunting for rare vintage books or simply a quiet corner with free coffee to relax, this is a hidden gem worth exploring.
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Read about other bookstores in Singapore:
Cover image adapted from: waihan hoe via Google, Mary Chin via LinkedIn