The Inner Shelf
A quiet bookstore & library for curious minds to explore the wisdom of the world.
Come in. Sit for a while. Turn a page.
Explore our bookstore and lending library hosted at The Shala Yoga School in Cape Town.
This is a space to slow down, browse gently, and discover books that support the inner path, consciousness, and meaningful living.
We curate titles across spirituality (especially non-dual traditions), philosophy, psychology, poetry, and contemplative traditions. Some books are for owning, some for borrowing — all chosen with care. Take your practice into your daily life by joining our Book Club.
Direct Awareness and Non-Dual Traditions
Explore the intricacies of the path to Moksha
Our Genres
"The question ‘Who am I?’ is not really meant to get an answer, the question ‘Who am I?’ is meant to dissolve the questioner."
– Ramana Maharshi
The Inner Shelf Library
Browse. Borrow. Belong.
Library Membership Pricing
R450 - Library Membership
(the average price of a single spiritual book)
R650 - Library Membership + annual membership to the Book Club
Our library exists to make rare, thoughtful books more accessible, and to keep wisdom moving through the community rather than resting on a single shelf. Library membership is good for one year, unlimited access to books, and the borrowing period is one month.
Catalog
Peruse our catalog of books below. Explore books for self-inquiry, quiet growth and thoughtful living. Looking for something specific? Contact us today to help source your preferred title.
“Only to the extent that we expose ourselves over and over to annihilation can that which is indestructible in us be found.”
– Pema Chödrön
Join our monthly
Book Club
Book Club Pricing
R50 - Drop in
R400 - Full year (10 sessions)
R650 - Library Membership + annual membership to the Book Club
Our monthly bookclub is where we dive into these texts together. Book Club will move slowly through each book, share questions and prompts to explore and contemplate in our daily lives. This is intended to be a supportive, community-driven way to integrate the wisdom into our daily lives.
We normally meet on the last Thursday evening of the month from 7:00 - 8:30pm at The Shala.
Book Club Schedule 2026
JANUARY
The Heart of Yoga
Part One
A comprehensive and accessible guide to yoga, "Heart of Yoga" by T.K.V. Desikachar offers practical teachings rooted in the classical tradition of his father, the legendary yogi Krishnamacharya. This book blends philosophy, personal reflection, and step-by-step instruction, making it an invaluable resource for both beginners and experienced practitioners seeking a deeper, more personalized approach to yoga.
“What you are, the world is. And without your transformation, there can be no transformation of the world.”
– Jiddu Krishnamurti
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