Singapore's literary heritage is relatively young but remarkably dense. Works from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, when local publishing was still fledgling, can be extremely difficult to find. Many titles were printed in runs of 500 copies or fewer, and some have never been digitised. For collectors, researchers, or casual readers curious about earlier voices, the hunt requires more than a trip to a chain bookstore. This article lays out the key avenues for finding rare Singapore literature in print, with specific locations, price ranges, and search tactics that have worked for experienced local collectors.
Before diving in, it is worth noting that the complete guide to buying and borrowing books in Singapore offers a wider view of the general book ecosystem. This article focuses specifically on the rare and out-of-print corner of that world.
1. Defining “Rare Singapore Literature”
The term covers more than first editions of famous novels. In the Singapore context, rare literature typically includes:
- Out-of-print poetry collections by writers like Edwin Thumboo, Arthur Yap, and Lee Tzu Pheng, many of which were published by small presses or university imprints in runs of 300-1,000 copies.
- Early political and social commentaries from the pre- and post-independence period, including works by S. Rajaratnam, Goh Keng Swee, and other contributors to the Journal of Southeast Asian History or the Singapore Herald era.
- Literary magazines and periodicals such as Commentary (first series, 1960s), Focus (1970s), The Literary Review (1980s), and Singa (1990s). Complete runs are exceptionally rare.
- Small-press and self-published works from the 1990s to early 2000s, such as early books by Math Paper Press, first titles from Firstfruits Publications, and zines like Softblow and Dog.
- Signed or inscribed copies of significant works, even if the book itself is not otherwise rare. Signatures from authors like Gopal Baratham, Catherine Lim, or Alfian Sa’at add considerable value.
Price benchmarks vary widely. A common out-of-print poetry pamphlet might cost SGD 15-40, while a signed first edition of Edwin Thumboo’s Ulysses by the Merlion (1979) in good condition can reach SGD 200-400 at auction or from a specialist dealer.
2. Specialist Rare Book Dealers
The most reliable source for rare Singapore literature is a handful of dealers who have been in the trade for decades. These dealers attend international book fairs, maintain catalogs, and often have deep knowledge of the local literary scene.
2.1 Loo’s Hoo (No. 9 Bras Basah Complex, #01-02)
Loo’s Hoo has operated since the 1970s and is perhaps the best-known rare book dealer in Singapore. Their stock includes a dedicated section of Singapore and Malayan literature, with prices ranging from SGD 30 for a 1970s poetry booklet to SGD 800 for a pristine copy of a early Malayan novel. The shop is small, so it pays to ask the owner directly what they have in the back room. Visit on a weekday afternoon when the owner is less busy and more willing to chat.
2.2 Books Actually (No. 9 Yong Siak Street, Tiong Bahru)
While primarily a new-book store and publisher (Math Paper Press), Books Actually also maintains a small curated selection of rare and out-of-print Singapore titles. They keep these behind the counter or in a locked cabinet. Ask for their “Rare & Collectible” shelf. Prices here tend to be higher (SGD 60-200) because the condition is usually excellent and the selection is hand-picked by owner Kenny Leck, who knows the local literary landscape intimately.
2.3 Basheer Graphic Books (Bras Basah Complex, #01-03/04)
Basheer is best known for art and design books, but they have a small but interesting stock of out-of-print Singapore poetry and fiction. Their back room holds boxes of older titles that are not priced individually; you can browse and ask. Prices are generally low (SGD 10-30) for these untended items, but you need to be prepared to dig.
For a more complete list of dealers, see the separate guide on rare book dealers in Singapore.
3. Secondhand Bookshops with Rare Sections
Not all secondhand shops carry rare literature, but several have corners worth lingering in. The key is patience and regular visits.
3.1 Eunos Bookmark (Blk 4A Eunos Crescent, #01-05)
Eunos Bookmark is a sprawling shop with thousands of donated and pre-owned books. They do not separate rare items, so you need to scan the Singapore literature shelves carefully. On a good day you may find a 1960s textbook on Singaporean history or a 1980s poetry volume mixed in with old textbooks. Prices are flat, typically SGD 2-5 per book, making this a cheap but time-consuming source.
3.2 Evernew Bookstore (Blk 34 Whampoa West, #01-59) and Junkbook Xchange (Blk 46 Holland Drive, #01-355)
Both of these shops have been around for more than 20 years. Their Singapore literature sections are small but occasionally yield surprises. Evernew, in particular, sometimes receives donations from retirees clearing out their personal libraries, which can include early editions of works by Masuri S.N., Muhammed Haji Salleh, or even old issues of Commentary. Prices are generally SGD 3-8.
For more detailed reviews of these and other secondhand shops, refer to the secondhand bookshop reviews article.
4. The National Library Board (NLB), Not Just for Borrowing
The NLB’s Lee Kong Chian Reference Library at 100 Victoria Street holds one of the most comprehensive collections of Singapore literature in existence. While items cannot be borrowed, they can be read on-site. For rare and fragile items, you may need to request them in advance via the NLB catalogue (catalogue.nlb.gov.sg).
4.1 The Rare Materials Collection
This collection, housed on the 13th floor, includes unpublished manuscripts, early printed books from the 19th and early 20th centuries, and personal papers of writers. To access it, you need a valid NLB library card (free for Singaporeans and PRs, SGD 42.80 per year for others) and you must request items at least three working days in advance. There is no charge for viewing, but photocopying or photography may be restricted.
4.2 Interlibrary Loan (ILL)
If the item you need is not held by NLB but exists in another library worldwide, you can request it through the NLB’s interlibrary loan service. Fees start at SGD 15 per request, and delivery can take 2-6 weeks. For rare Singapore literature held in overseas collections (such as the British Library or the University of Malaya library), this is a viable option. Details are available on the NLB interlibrary loan page.
4.3 Digital Repositories
The NLB’s BookSG portal (booksg.nlb.gov.sg) has digitised hundreds of out-of-copyright Singapore books, including many early literary works. The NewspaperSG portal (newspapers.nlb.gov.sg) contains full runs of historical newspapers that often printed literary columns, poems, and serialised fiction. Both are free to access with an NLB membership.
5. Online Marketplaces and International Platforms
Many rare Singapore titles appear on global secondhand marketplaces, but shipping costs and customs can complicate purchases.
5.1 eBay (ebay.sg)
Search for terms like “Singapore poetry”, “Singapore literature 1960”, or the specific author name. Filter by “Worldwide” and then by “Used”. Prices vary widely. Expect to pay USD 10-50 for a common out-of-print book plus USD 10-20 for shipping from sellers in the UK or US. Be aware that some sellers overprice condition; always ask for photos of the spine and front matter.
5.2 AbeBooks (abebooks.com)
AbeBooks specialises in rare and collectible books. Searching for “Singapore literature” yields several hundred results. Shipping from US or European sellers to Singapore typically costs USD 15-25. Check the international book shipping costs guide to compare rates. Also note that books valued above SGD 400 may attract customs duties and GST. See the customs duties on imported books guide for current thresholds.
5.3 Carousell (carousell.sg)
Local sellers on Carousell often list old textbooks and general non-fiction, but some offer small collections of Singapore poetry or fiction. Search for “rare Singapore book” or “vintage Singapore literature”. Prices are usually SGD 5-30. Meet in person for cash transactions to avoid shipping costs. Be cautious about condition descriptions, the platform has no standard grading.
For a broader list of online sources, the article best sites for used books shipping covers the major platforms with pricing details.
6. Book Fairs, Literary Festivals, and Pop-Up Markets
Face-to-face events remain one of the best places to discover rare items, because sellers bring deeper stocks and you can inspect condition directly.
6.1 Singapore Book Fair (annual, June)
Organised by the Singapore Press Holdings (SPH), the Singapore Book Fair at Suntec City Convention Centre usually features a section of secondhand and antiquarian books. Some of the dealers mentioned earlier set up booths. Prices can be slightly higher than in their shops, but you can negotiate on the final day of the fair when sellers are eager to clear stock. Entry is typically SGD 5-10.
For dates and details, check the Singapore book fairs 2024 schedule.
6.2 Singapore Writers Festival (SWF) (annual, November)
The SWF has a dedicated bookshop run by Books Actually. In recent years, they have included a small display of rare and collectible Singapore titles, often with a focus on the author being featured. It is not a large selection, but you may find signed or limited-edition items not available elsewhere. General entry to the festival grounds is free; some panels require paid tickets. See the Singapore literary festival guide for full programming.
6.3 Pop-Up Book Markets
Independent pop-ups like The Book Fair (held a few times a year at venues like *SCAPE or The Arts House) often include a stall from one or more secondhand dealers. Announcements are usually posted in Facebook groups like “Singapore Book Community” or “SG Book Swap”. These pop-ups rarely have fixed dates, so following relevant social media accounts is essential. The pop-up book markets article provides tips on how to track them.
7. Community Book Exchanges and Swap Events
While not typically a source for high-value items, community exchanges sometimes yield hidden gems when a literary estate is donated.
7.1 Book Exchanges at Community Centres
Many community clubs (e.g., Bishan CC, Ang Mo Kio CC) have permanent book exchange shelves. They are often filled with textbooks and romance novels, but occasionally a poetry collection slips through. It is worth checking once a month. Books are free or available for a small donation (SGD 1-2).
7.2 The Green Book Exchange (multiple locations)
This organisation runs climate-themed book swaps at various parks and libraries. They accept donations and sell books at SGD 2-5. Their stock varies by event. Listings are on their Facebook page.
If you want to organise your own, the community book exchanges guide has practical steps.
7.3 Book Swap Events
Regular book swap events like those held at The Projector (Golden Mile Tower) or at art spaces like The Substation (before its closure) occasionally include rare or unusual items. Prices are typically just the cost of a new book to swap, or a nominal entry fee (SGD 5-10). Keep an eye on the book swap events Singapore page for updated schedules.
8. Practical Tips for Identifying Rare Singapore Literature
Not every old book is valuable. Here are a few quick heuristics:
- Check the imprint. Books published by the University of Singapore Press, Heinemann Educational Books (Asia), or the Singapore Literature Society are more likely to be collectible.
- Look for small print runs. The copyright page often states “Printed in Singapore” and may list a number like “500 copies only”. This is a strong indicator of rarity.
- Examine the author’s significance. Works by Cultural Medallion winners (e.g., Edwin Thumboo, Kuo Pao Kun, Suchen Christine Lim) tend to hold value better.
- Condition matters. A book with a torn dust jacket, foxing, or library stamps is worth 30-60% less than a clean copy.
- Beware of facsimiles. Some early texts have been reprinted by the NLB or by university presses. A 2005 reprint of a 1955 work is not rare. Check the copyright date and printer’s code.
9. Final Considerations on Budget and Storage
Collecting rare Singapore literature does not require a massive budget. Many worthwhile items are under SGD 50. The main costs are time and transportation, you will need to visit shops regularly and sometimes travel to residential areas. For high-value acquisitions (above SGD 200), consider getting the item appraised either by a dealer or through the NLB’s reference staff, who can often give a rough indication of rarity but not a formal valuation.
Store your books away from direct sunlight and in a cool, dry place. Singapore’s humidity can accelerate foxing and mould. Use silica gel packets in your bookshelves and consider a dehumidifier if you have a substantial collection.
For the full picture on where to find books of any kind in Singapore, from new releases to library loans, start with the complete guide to buying and borrowing books in Singapore.