Top 4 Free Libraries & Workspaces in Central Ho Chi Minh City
Finding free libraries and workspaces in central Ho Chi Minh City has become a top trend among Gen Z and freelancers looking to optimize costs while meeting deadlines. If you’re searching for an affordable yet quiet and focused place to work or study, the following top 4 prime locations are sure to impress.
1. S.hub – Ho Chi Minh City General Science Library
Located right on a bustling central street, S.hub is one of Saigon’s most popular free study spaces for young people. Stepping inside, you’ll be struck by the beautiful blend of the historic charm of the General Science Library building and the modern co-working model sponsored by Samsung.
The space is intelligently designed with tablet stations for quick lookups, large screens, and high-speed Wi-Fi. It features well-divided zones, including quiet individual workstations and larger tables for group discussions. Natural light floods the area, complemented by soothing greenery that sparks creativity.
Free Access & Library Card: The library is open to everyone for reading and exploring. However, if you’re over 16 and want full access to technology services or book borrowing, you’ll need a library card. The annual fees are very affordable:
- New card: 40,000 VNĐ/year
- Renewal (no new card): 20,000 VNĐ/year
Note: Seniors (over 60), people with disabilities, and children under 16 can get a card completely free.
Contact Information:
- Address: 69 Lý Tự Trọng, Ben Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
- Phone: (028) 38 225 055
- Website: https://www.thuvientphcm.gov.vn/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thuvienkhoahoctonghophcm/
- Opening Hours: Mon–Fri: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM | Sat–Sun: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
2. American Center (U.S. Cultural Center)
If you’re looking for a premium, international-standard free workspace, the American Center is an excellent choice. Situated on a high floor of Diamond Plaza, it offers a modern, quiet, and well-air-conditioned environment — perfect for academic work, IELTS/TOEFL preparation, or remote working.
The center boasts an extensive collection of English books, newspapers, and magazines across many fields. You can also enjoy free access to high-performance computers and advanced technology equipment.
Access: 100% free for Vietnamese citizens. Remember to bring your original ID card (CCCD/CMND) or passport to present at the ground-floor security desk before heading to the 8th floor.
Contact Information:
- Address: 8th Floor, Diamond Plaza, 34 Lê Duẩn, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Phone: (+84 28) 3520 4629 | (028) 3520 4200 or (028) 3520 4600
- Website: https://vn.usembassy.gov/vi/library-information/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USConsulateHCMC/
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday to Friday)
3. IDECAF Library – French Cultural Exchange Institute
Tucked away on the peaceful Thái Văn Lung street, IDECAF is a free library in Ho Chi Minh City that carries a strong French architectural and cultural atmosphere. In contrast to the lively surroundings, the interior is exceptionally quiet and elegant — ideal for deep focus, research, translation, or creative writing.
The library holds thousands of valuable books, comics, and resources in both French and Vietnamese. In addition to traditional reading areas, it features a modern multimedia zone where you can listen to music, watch films, or access digital information.
Note: Reading on-site is completely free. If you want to borrow books or use extended services, you’ll need to get a library card according to the institute’s regulations.
Contact Information:
- Address: 31 Thái Văn Lung, Ben Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hotline: 028 3829 5451
- Website: https://idecaf.gov.vn
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/idecafhcm
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM (Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri) | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Wed, Sat)
4. “Cà Phê Thứ Bảy Trẻ” Library
For a more artistic and soulful space, the “Cà Phê Thứ Bảy Trẻ” (Young Saturday Coffee) Library is a wonderful non-profit cultural spot founded by musician Dương Thụ. Unlike typical public libraries, it feels warm and homey — like a cozy personal workspace — while still maintaining the necessary quiet.
The collection is carefully curated with excellent titles in literature, philosophy, psychology, and arts. The serene atmosphere, gentle aroma of coffee, and soft classical music create the perfect environment for creative freelance work.
Contact Information:
- Address: 2nd & 3rd Floor, Trung Nguyên Legend Coffee – 603 Trần Hưng Đạo, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thubaytre/
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Taking advantage of these free libraries in Ho Chi Minh City not only helps you save a significant amount of money each month but also boosts your productivity in a civilized and inspiring environment. Depending on your specific needs, you can flexibly choose the best spot for yourself. Good luck finding your favorite “workplace crush” and crushing all those deadlines!
