One of the most convenient ways to find Belarusian books is through online bookstores. Several websites specialize in Slavic languages or Eastern European literature and offer a range of books in Belarusian.

OZ.by

OZ.by is one of the largest Belarusian online bookstores. They offer a wide selection of books in various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, academic works, and children’s literature. The website is user-friendly and allows you to filter books by language, making it easy to find Belarusian titles. Shipping options are available for international customers, although the cost and delivery time may vary based on your location.

Knigi.by

Knigi.by is another excellent resource for Belarusian literature. This online bookstore offers a variety of books in the Belarusian language, ranging from classic literature to contemporary works. They also have a section dedicated to educational materials, which can be incredibly useful for language learners. Knigi.by ships internationally, and their customer service is known to be responsive and helpful.

Belkniga

Belkniga is the national bookstore chain of Belarus and their online platform offers an extensive catalog of books in Belarusian. From historical novels to modern-day poetry, you’ll find a rich selection that can cater to various interests. The website is available in multiple languages, including English, making it easier for non-native speakers to navigate and purchase books.

Physical Bookstores in Belarus

If you have the opportunity to visit Belarus, exploring physical bookstores can be an enriching experience. Here are some popular bookstores where you can find a plethora of Belarusian books.

Bookshop Lohvinau

Located in Minsk, Bookshop Lohvinau is a well-known independent bookstore that offers a wide range of Belarusian books. The store is famous for its cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff who can help you find exactly what you are looking for. They also host various literary events, so you might even get the chance to meet local authors and poets.

Akademkniga

Akademkniga is another prominent bookstore in Minsk, focusing on academic and educational literature. They have a substantial collection of books in Belarusian, including textbooks, research papers, and scholarly articles. This store is particularly useful for students and academics who are delving into Belarusian studies.

Central Bookstore

The Central Bookstore in Minsk is one of the oldest and largest bookstores in Belarus. It offers a vast selection of books in Belarusian, from classic literature to modern publications. The store is centrally located, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike.

Libraries

Libraries can be a goldmine for finding Belarusian books, especially if you have access to a library that specializes in Slavic or Eastern European languages.

National Library of Belarus

The National Library of Belarus in Minsk is an iconic building and a treasure trove of Belarusian literature. They have an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and periodicals in Belarusian. The library also provides digital resources, allowing you to access some materials online. If you are in Belarus, a visit to this library is highly recommended.

University Libraries

Many university libraries, especially those with strong Slavic studies programs, have collections of Belarusian books. Institutions like Harvard University, the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Warsaw have extensive Slavic collections that include Belarusian literature. Check with the library at your local university to see if they have a collection of Belarusian books.

Public Libraries with Slavic Sections

Some public libraries in cities with significant Eastern European populations have sections dedicated to Slavic languages. For instance, the New York Public Library and the Toronto Public Library have extensive collections of books in various Slavic languages, including Belarusian. These libraries often provide interlibrary loan services, allowing you to borrow books from other libraries if they do not have what you are looking for.

Digital Libraries and E-Books

In today’s digital age, you don’t necessarily need to rely on physical books. Several digital libraries and platforms offer e-books in Belarusian, providing a convenient way to access literature from anywhere in the world.

Google Books

Google Books is a fantastic resource for finding Belarusian books in digital format. By simply typing in the book title or author name in Belarusian, you can access a range of books that are available for preview or purchase. While not all books are available in full, many offer substantial previews that can be very useful for language learners.

Project Gutenberg

Project Gutenberg is a digital library offering over 60,000 free eBooks, including some in Belarusian. The platform focuses on older works for which copyright has expired, so you are more likely to find classic Belarusian literature here. This can be particularly beneficial if you are interested in studying the linguistic and cultural heritage of Belarus.

LitRes

LitRes is a popular Russian digital library that also offers a selection of Belarusian books. The platform provides both e-books and audiobooks, making it a versatile resource for language learners. LitRes offers a subscription service, but many titles are also available for individual purchase.

Language Exchange and Cultural Organizations

Sometimes the best resources come from community connections. Language exchange groups and cultural organizations often have libraries or can recommend where to find Belarusian books.

Language Exchange Meetups

Language exchange meetups, both in-person and virtual, can be excellent places to find recommendations for Belarusian books. Members of these groups often share resources and can point you to lesser-known but valuable sources of Belarusian literature. Websites like Meetup.com or language exchange apps can help you find these groups.

Belarusian Cultural Organizations

Belarusian cultural organizations, such as the Belarusian Association of North America (BANA) or the Belarusian American Association, often have libraries or can provide resources for finding Belarusian books. These organizations also host cultural events, which can be a great way to immerse yourself in the Belarusian language and culture.

Book Fairs and Literary Festivals

Attending book fairs and literary festivals can provide unique opportunities to discover Belarusian literature. These events often feature stalls and exhibitions from various publishers, including those specializing in Belarusian books.

Minsk Book Fair

The Minsk Book Fair is one of the most significant literary events in Belarus. Held annually, the fair attracts publishers, authors, and book lovers from all over the country and beyond. This event offers a fantastic opportunity to explore a wide range of Belarusian books and even meet some of the authors.

Frankfurt Book Fair

The Frankfurt Book Fair is one of the largest book fairs in the world and often features publishers from Eastern Europe, including Belarus. While it may be more challenging to find Belarusian books here compared to a local fair in Belarus, the international scope of the event makes it worth exploring.

Social Media and Online Communities

Social media platforms and online communities can also be valuable resources for finding Belarusian books. These platforms often host groups and forums where members share information and resources.

Facebook Groups

There are several Facebook groups dedicated to Belarusian literature and language learning. Joining these groups can provide you with recommendations for books, as well as links to online resources and stores. Some popular groups include “Belarusian Literature Fans” and “Learn Belarusian.”

Reddit

Reddit has several subreddits focused on language learning and Slavic literature. Subreddits like r/languagelearning and r/Belarus can be useful for finding recommendations and resources for Belarusian books. Members often share links to free resources and provide advice on where to find specific titles.

Conclusion

Finding Belarusian books in their original language may require some effort, but the rewards are well worth it. Reading in Belarusian will not only improve your language skills but also provide a deeper understanding of Belarusian culture and history. Whether you choose to explore online bookstores, visit physical stores in Belarus, utilize libraries, or tap into digital resources, there are plenty of avenues to discover the rich world of Belarusian literature.

Remember, the journey of language learning is as much about the process as it is about the destination. So take your time, explore different resources, and enjoy the beauty of Belarusian literature. Happy reading!