Yet another bookstore is scaling back – following the recent closures of Times Bookstore and Epigram, Books Kinokuniya’s flagship store at Takashimaya is set to shrink. With so few bookstores left in Singapore, it’s a real loss to see the biggest one yet – a vital haven for book lovers – about to downsize too.
Right now, there’s no official word on exactly how much the bookstore will be downsized. However, shelves near the storefront, once home to local and Asian literature, psychology, philosophy, mystery, and thrillers, stand completely bare.
The Straits Times reports that the downsizing follows rental negotiations with landlord Toshin Development. Over the weekend of February 16 and 17, visitors at the flagship bookstore encountered empty shelves at the front of the store, with staff busy rearranging the space. Part of the vacated area is expected to be replaced by a café.
Despite the ongoing changes, Books Kinokuniya Takashimaya will continue to operate as usual, though things might be a bit chaotic. Customers are encouraged to seek assistance if they have trouble finding their books during this transition.
Stay tuned for more updates.
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