
04.07.2012 / World Bulletin
Literary Beirut
In spite of its difficult recent history, today Beirut is a vibrant and cosmopolitan capital, facing challenges of peace and coexistence on a daily basis. Cultural life in the city is a melting pot of different cultural influences, a blend of Oriental and Western elements.
Designated World Book Capital for 2009 by UNESCO, Beirut is also a literary oasis, dotted with amazing bookstores selling Arabic, French and English volumes – a reflection of the city’s past.
Located in Mar Mikhael, a neighborhood of old fashioned shops and narrow streets, Papercup is a bookstore and café specializing in fine art, photography, architecture and design.
Its mark of distinction, however, is its highly individualized approach to everything, from books and magazines to teas and treats. Papercup’s stock is, in essence, bespoke, a custom-made selection for a discerning clientele, including some 1,200 books and 200 magazines, many of which are rare, landmark, limited edited or otherwise unavailable on the local market.Hosted inside the former storeroom of a local paint vendor, Papercup is the brainchild of  Rania Naufal, daughter of director of Levant book distributors and granddaughter of the owner of the established Librairie Antoine – and a die-hard book lover herself.
The main idea behind this place was to create an environment where knowledgeable browsers would have ample opportunity to discover something new or special, as well as to have a good and relaxed time.
Which is why, in addition to keeping the selection current and fresh, Naufal and her staff also dig back and retrieve classic publications and nearly forgotten treasures. Besides books, at Papercup customers will find homemade sweets, specially sourced coffees and teas, and fresh flowers on display.
Everything is warm and welcoming – a space created to make people feel at home and to conquer the loyalty of the community it serves through personalized services, regular book signings and special selections made by local artists and writers. Definitely worth a visit.
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