Quote:
Originally Posted by Taylor514ce
I like Borders <shrug>. At least my local store employs reasonably erudite people perfectly willing to stop what they're doing and chat with me about what books I might like based on shared interests. I like pulling three or four titles from the shelves, sitting down with them in the coffee shop and browsing them until I decide on a purchase. And though it's manipulative, their Rewards program usually ensures I have a 20-30% off coupon in my wallet. I like their location, too. Close to a Cold Stone Creamery, a Panera, etc. This goes back to a discussion elsewhere about Bookstores vs. eBookstores, or something like that. Buing an ebook directly online is great if I know what I want. I haven't seen the experience I describe above duplicated yet online.
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I agree. I really like Borders too. In fact, in my area, I like Borders better than Barnes and Noble. I'm an e-book fanatic, but I do enjoy going into my Borders and browsing around, looking through the book and relaxing. It was always pretty busy at this one too, so it's a shame if they go away.
But the times are changing. We are having a "perfect storm of events" that causes this in the U.S.: less people reading, people worrying about finances, companies worrying about finances, convenience of buying books online and a tiny bit (but growing) audience preferring e-books.
I think there will be more and more stories like this. Barnes and Noble is still making a pretty good profit, and considering that they may be "the last one standing," they will be around for a while because no other place to visit.
I'm torn though; I do prefer e-books, but I like the atmosphere of bookstores. Sad to say, I even sometimes go there to read on my Kindle while waiting for my girlfriend to finish shopping in the mall.