And the ones still open are shells of what they used to be.
I worked at the downtown Seattle Borders back in the days when Dan Savage would hideout in the cafe to write. Our inventory was overflowing (especially the music section). I go now and it's just open space. They managed to combine the once brimming DVD section with the music section.
I have to admit that I'm not terribly saddened to see the Alderwood location go. For all the space it takes up, its inventory is pretty sparse. It could easily be a one-floor store. Also, if I'm remembering correctly, you can't actually enter the store from the mall proper. You have to first go through the open-air portion and go around a corner before finding the entrance. Very awkward.
I'm amazed (but glad) that the Spokane store isn't closing. Seems like it hardly has any customers any time I go in there. It's relatively small, though, and rent has got to be cheaper than in Lynnwood.
Wow, I'm surprised that the Everett Mall store is still open but Alderwood one is closing. I didn't mind entering the Alderwood space from the outside world as I usually always park in that general area or across the street and walk it.
The Santa Cruz, CA store is on the list! This is good. Long independent Book Shop Santa Cruz three blocks away survived. Though the huge empty space could become a Whole Foods or another attempt to displace local businesses.
I worked at the downtown Seattle Borders back in the days when Dan Savage would hideout in the cafe to write. Our inventory was overflowing (especially the music section). I go now and it's just open space. They managed to combine the once brimming DVD section with the music section.
Although I still frequent the magazine/newsstand @ Pike Place Market the most