It is really happening. Just a year following the tragic news of the Paramus Barnes & Noble closing after 28 years of service, it is returning and here to stay. The Paramus Barnes & Noble had been in Paramus for nearly three decades and served as a go-to reading spot for many residents before closing last year. The news broke in November that the bookstore was set to return on Black Friday in the most groundbreaking comeback since Michael Jordan announced he was coming out of retirement.
Many theories have been thrown around as to why Barnes & Noble originally shut down, as many speculated that it had something to do with its inability to compete with companies like Amazon. However, according to the company’s official statement, the closure was a result of the landlord not renewing the lease and deciding to redevelop the site. The shutdown left a hole in the local community as it provided a space for avid readers to find books, read, and relax. When Barnes & Noble was closed, many were left without a place to go and read. There was an intense public push for a new bookstore. Barnes & Noble was able to capitalize on the newfound attention by building a new site just down the road, reopening within just a few months.
With the excitement of the new Barnes & Noble in full swing, I knew I had to check out the revitalized bookstore myself. The immense size of the Barnes & Noble was a standout feature of the new site. The outside is massive and on the inside looks even larger. There are endless sections to choose from such as mysteries and thrillers, history classics, and for the younger readers a kids section with not only books but also games. There is even a whole section dedicated to Dr. Suess. In addition to the books, there are albums, art, photography, and even games and puzzles. Not to mention the cafe serving coffee in the back.
Despite the popularity and modernization of Barnes & Noble, a growing complaint is the lack of atmosphere. “It’s all bookshelves and there is not a lot of seating … maybe a few chairs sprinkled in would help so you could sit next to where you got your book from” senior and Barnes & Noble frequent Olivia Berard said. The new Barnes & Noble, in its attempt to be fresh and appealing, seems to have lost some of its comforting, small bookstore vibe. Junior Ellie Hughes, who often visited the old Barnes & Noble explained, “I didn’t really like the layout of it…the old store was so cool, it had two levels, the new store is trying to be very modern…it doesn’t give the old Barnes and Noble feel.” The store’s large size, vast selection, and lack of chairs can be a turn-off for many customers, who may feel overwhelmed rather than comforted. Most importantly, the modernization of the store makes many yearn for the sense of personalization and coziness they felt in the old bookstore. How great is a bookstore if it’s just a place where you can buy a book, not somewhere you want to read?
Overall, the news Barnes & Noble has a lot to offer, with its vast book selection, art, music, and even coffee, but simultaneously lacks a sense of identity.
