It’s an exciting month for book lovers – following the launch of two Book Vending Machines by BooksActually earlier in June, the independent bookstore that’s a favourite amongst bookworms and hipsters is releasing their third and final instalment. The last vending machine is now open at the Goodman Arts Centre, joining the two at National Museum of Singapore and the Singapore Visitor Centre on Orchard Road.
Apart from being an obviously fun new way to go about your book buying, it’s all part of a project by BooksActually to bring books and local literature to the public – plus encourage the joy of reading on the go. The main feature of the three Book Vending Machines is that all the books inside are works by Singaporean authors and poets – a deliberate move, we’re guessing, to increase interest in local writers.
But if you prefer conventional browsing in person, all the books sold in the vending machines – titles include Ministry of Moral Panic by Amanda Lee Koe, and Sonnets From The Singlish – are available at the physical store too. Since 2005, BooksActually has prided itself on being a gathering place to connect local and international writers, artists, and designers. If you’re a first-time goer, pop by for the light-handed curation of fiction, photo books and knick-knacks; or the occasional poetry slams and readings held in-store. And even if you don’t happen to be in the area (because who in Tiong Bahru ever really is?), the Book Vending Machines are there, in more accessible parts of the island, if you’re ever in the mood for a quick read – though take your time with each book; it’s definitely not like a can of coke you just chug and chuck.
Book Vending Machines
Address: Singapore Visitor Centre, 216 Orchard Road 1st floor | National Museum of Singapore, Concourse, 93 Stamford Road | Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Road Block A #01-01
BooksActually
Address: 9 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168645
Opening hours: 10am – 6pm (Sun & Mon), 10am – 8pm (Tues to Fri)
More info at booksactually.com
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