Penang's old phone booths get a new ring as pop-up libraries


Public phone booths are on the endangered species list in Malaysia, but one community group Penggerak Komuniti Muda in George Town has found a nifty way to give them new life: phone booth libraries. Photo: PEKA

Bright and loud. That is the aim – and colour – of a new pocket library project that has lit up the historical streets of George Town, Penang.

Initiated by Penggerak Komuniti Muda (PEKA), five old public phone booths have been transformed into mini libraries where book lovers can borrow, exchange or donate books to be shared with the community.

Unlock 30% Savings on Ad-Free Access Now!

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month
RM9.73 only

Billed as RM9.73 for the 1st month then RM13.90 thereafters.

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month
RM8.63/month

Billed as RM103.60 for the 1st year then RM148 thereafters.

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Culture

Now 90, A. Samad Said’s appetite for books, the written word burns as brightly as ever
IAMM set to roar with 'More Than A Day As A Tiger' exhibition on Tipu Sultan’s legacy
2025 Tolkien Lecture: Zen Cho on the fun and freedom of fantasy
Weekend for the arts: 'Apostate' at KLPac, JitFest welcomes 'Visits'
Art Basel opens with strong sales despite market slowdown
'Legacy Alive' keeps the flame going for three late Malaysian creatives
Malaysian artist Khabir Roslan turns kitchen compost into soulful artworks
Alfred Brendel, the 'Thinking Pianist's Man', dies at age 94
Scaffolding goes up in Venice to save Banksy's migrant mural
Louvre closes as staff strike over overcrowding and understaffing

Others Also Read