Book Nook at The Podium: Finding a Good Home for Books

Last August 15, Book Nook launched its second location at the fifth level of The Podium, an open library with a cozy space where visitors can check out an extensive collection of books. 

Book Nook founder Sheeren Sy, a Singaporean architect affiliated with SM Supermalls, got the idea when she encountered a small unattended shelf in Australia, where people could share books for free. She also takes inspiration from her two children and shares how excited they get every time they are at a bookstore. She says, “They start sitting on the floor opening the books, and I said 'Oh no! That’s not how we treat National Book Store and Fully Booked.'”

This made her realize further that there is a need for a space that can house good books. “I wanted to have a sustainable way of sharing books, and having a home for them so other children can enjoy,” Sheeren explains. “It turned into this inspiration where it wasn’t just for children because even adults have amazing books they can share from their homes.” 

The love for books doesn’t come naturally for everyone. In this day and age, where everything is literally at the tips of our fingers with a tap on the screen, Sheeren has this to say: “As a parent, I think we have to accept that the screen is here to stay instead of fighting it. Treat a book as a way of connecting with a child. And if they are not interested, that’s okay, ’cause a book is very invitational.”

Another piece of advice she gives is to “Pick books that are funny. My son loves comics, and I started with this book called Piggie and Gerald because it’s so funny I laugh as a parent. If a child sees you enjoying reading, it’s a natural progression.” When parents and children discover books together, this creates a special bonding experience.

Sheeren envisioned a space that can foster a love for reading, sharing, and promoting community engagement. To realize this, Book Nook Podium was designed by Architect Royal Pineda, an advocate of Modern Filipino Architecture. He states, “We designed the installation to look like a scroll. Of course, the history of books started from scrolls but in a very modern interpretation. We wanted something more open. We wanted to give the 'maaliwalas' feel.” And this was executed as planned, as any visitor will feel welcome to sit and enjoy the open space.

Extending far beyond its collection of books, Book Nook hosts a variety of events and activities that cater to diverse interests. During the launch, guests were fortunate to experience a workshop about Creating Magic Through Storytelling by renowned wedding videographer Jason Magbanua. 

These events are part of what makes Book Nook special as Sheeren closes, “Book readings, book signings, and workshops, are ways of bringing the books to life ’cause it’s all in the books but it’s the human that gives it spirit, and soul. That’s why we have the activity part and the quiet part where people have a safe space to use on a day-to-day basis.”

Text and photos by Bambi Torres-Camus