Borders

Unlike many of the other big bookstore chains, Borders still retains an element of cool. It may drive you mad with the millions of impulse buys craftily scattered around, but you can rest assured that most of the stuff on the multi-buy stands bears the seal of approval of those hallowed literary critics, Richard and Judy. Yes, of course, its ultimate goal is to make you part with your hard-earned cash, but the laid-back vibe and friendly staff will make that transaction a little more bearable. It also holds special events with some of the country's leading writers, where you can get your book signed before flogging it on eBay.

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