Why Did Borders Close?

  • Thread starter Thread starter waht
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AI Thread Summary
Borders has filed for bankruptcy and announced the closure of at least 200 stores, roughly 30% of its total locations. This decision follows ongoing financial struggles that predate the recession. Many users express nostalgia for the unique atmosphere of Borders, which included cozy cafes, extensive book selections, and a sense of community. Concerns are raised about the impact of these closures on local bookstores and the overall book-buying experience, with some users noting that they often prefer browsing in-store despite purchasing online for specific titles. The discussion highlights a mix of sadness for the loss of Borders and apprehension about rising prices at remaining bookstores, particularly Barnes & Noble. Users share personal memories and experiences with Borders, emphasizing the importance of knowledgeable staff and the ability to browse specialized books, which they feel is lacking in chain stores. The conversation reflects a broader concern about the future of physical bookstores in the digital age.
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  • #52
I saw that. It looks like they still might find buyers for at least a few stores and/or inventory.

I STILL haven't used my gift card. I guess I'm going to wait until this weekend to see if a bunch of stuff goes on clearance and then use it. I did walk through one the other day, but the NSM selection was atrocious and the two gentleman sitting nearby were having a conversation that was so ignorant I could hardly read the titles in front of me.

Edit- I did visit the Brown Book Shop. You could get lost in there for days, even though it's quite a small shop.
 
  • #53
Borders #1 in Ann Arbor closes today.

The death and life of a great American bookstore (cnn.com)

I still have a number of physics books that I bought at that store (actually, at its predecessor that opened in 1974, the year before I arrived in Ann Arbor for grad school).

Last month I visited their nearest store in Charlotte for old times' sake, after the big clearance sale started, and bought a couple of CDs.
 
  • #54
I'm glad they're gone. When I was shopping at their closeout sales, they were playing this:

I'm not joking, either.
 
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  • #55
jhae2.718 said:
I'm glad they're gone. When I was shopping at their closeout sales, they were playing this:

I'm not joking, either.


D'OH!

Well that explains it!
 
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  • #56
This thread was started a while back, but it appears they're in their final week this week.

So, tomorrow, I'm heading over there and seeing what I might find. :)

Perhaps a cup of coffee.
 

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