Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges and transformations faced by physical bookstores in the digital age, particularly focusing on the case of Nanjing's Vanguard Bookstore, which has become a popular spot for social media photography, impacting its operational efficiency and reading environment [1][2]. Group 1: Impact of Social Media on Bookstores - Vanguard Bookstore, known as "China's most beautiful bookstore," has seen an influx of visitors primarily for photography, which has led to operational disruptions and prompted the removal of its iconic sign [1][2]. - The bookstore has issued a ban on commercial photography to maintain a conducive reading environment and ensure smooth operations, as the influx of photographers has caused congestion and safety concerns [2][4]. Group 2: The Role of Aesthetics in Bookstore Success - High aesthetic appeal is a significant factor in attracting visitors to bookstores, with examples like Zhongshu Pavilion and PAGEONE Bookstore showcasing artistic designs that enhance their popularity [3][4]. - The trend of "Instagrammable" bookstores has led to a situation where actual reading is overshadowed by photography, raising concerns about the primary purpose of bookstores [3][4]. Group 3: Strategies for Bookstore Sustainability - To convert foot traffic into loyal customers, bookstores must focus on core offerings such as diverse book selections and cultural products, adapting to the evolving consumer preferences of younger generations [4][5]. - The rise of the "α generation" necessitates bookstores to enrich their cultural product offerings and maintain high-quality content to engage and retain readers [4][5].

Core Insights - The article discusses the decline of popular bookstores in China, highlighting the shift from traditional book selling to lifestyle branding and the challenges faced by these establishments in maintaining profitability and relevance [2][4][10] Group 1: Decline of Popular Bookstores - Notable bookstore brands, including Tsutaya Bookstore, have closed multiple locations in China, reflecting a broader trend of well-known bookstores shutting down or exiting the market [2][4] - From early 2024 to April 2025, at least seven prominent bookstore brands are expected to close or withdraw from the market, with the total number of closures exceeding 50 across major cities [2][4][10] Group 2: Changing Consumer Behavior - Many consumers visit bookstores primarily for social media photo opportunities rather than purchasing books, leading to a disconnect between foot traffic and actual sales [4][10][16] - The shift in reading habits, exacerbated by the pandemic, has led to a preference for online book purchases, with physical bookstores capturing only 13.99% of the retail market in 2024 [4][10] Group 3: Business Model Transformation - Bookstores have increasingly relied on non-book sales, with only 30% of overall sales coming from book sales, while 70% is generated from food and beverage offerings [5][10] - The concept of "book+" has emerged, where bookstores aim to create a lifestyle experience rather than solely focusing on book sales [5][10][21] Group 4: Community Engagement and Sustainability - Successful bookstores are those that establish strong connections with their local communities, offering events and activities that resonate with residents [22][24] - Some independent bookstores are thriving by focusing on their core function of promoting reading and providing a welcoming environment, contrasting with the flashy, high-cost models of popular bookstores [22][24][25]