Kobo x NLB Sit-n-Read Node at City Square Mall
Unique reading spaces have been quietly popping up around Singapore, from the Sci-Fi Pop-up Library to the Stories by the Beach installations. Continuing these efforts, the National Library Board (NLB) has teamed up with Rakuten Kobo to launch the Kobo x NLB Sit-n-Read Node at City Square Mall, bringing digital and physical books together in one place.
What is the Kobo x NLB Sit-n-Read Node all about?
Image credit: @publiclibrarysg via Instagram
The collaboration is part of NLB’s ongoing mission to get more Singaporeans reading through its ReadSG initiative. It also marks Rakuten Kobo’s 1st standalone presence in Singapore, as the digital reading brand looks to make reading a bigger part of everyday life.
As the latest Sit-n-Read Node, the space continues NLB’s efforts to make reading more accessible by setting up dedicated reading spots in places people frequent. The node’s open layout means you can pop in from any direction, making it easy to squeeze in your 15 minutes of daily reading even when you’re out and about.
What to expect at the Kobo x NLB Sit-n-Read Node?
Browse through NLB’s digital collection on Kobo eReaders
Image credit: @publiclibrarysg via Instagram
This is the 1st and only hybrid Sit-n-Read Node featuring Kobo eReaders. You can try out 3 of the brand’s latest models, including the Kobo Libra Colour, Kobo Clara Colour, and Kobo Clara BW.
There are 8 eReaders spread across the space that are free to use, offering a curated selection of eBooks from NLB’s digital catalogue for you to browse. For those planning to get a Kobo device, this is the perfect chance to explore what reading on one feels like before you commit to the purchase.
While the digital books are only available as short previews at the node, you can keep reading beyond that by scanning the QR code at the end of the preview to find the full book in NLB’s digital collection, then borrow it to finish reading on your own eReader.
Bring home pre-loved books for free
For those who prefer physical books, NLB also has curated shelves of pre-loved titles for both adults and children. The good news is you can bring these books home with you without needing to borrow them, but you are encouraged to return them to the node once you’re done so others can enjoy them as well.
The selection will be refreshed regularly, so look out for new titles to discover whenever you visit.
Settle down with a book in cosy reading nooks
Image credit: @publiclibrarysg via Instagram
Once you’ve picked out a title, make yourself comfortable in one of the colourful reading nooks found around the space. There are 4 cosy nooks for adults and another made for families, each equipped with their own eReaders.
Are food & drinks allowed?
Food and drinks are strictly not allowed within the node; this is to maintain the cleanliness of the community-shared space, books, and eReaders.
Can I donate books to the Sit-n-Read Nodes?
Some of the titles available at the Sit-n-Read Node.
You can’t donate your pre-loved books to these nodes as NLB curates the selection to ensure the contents are appropriate. If you’re looking to get rid of unwanted books, you can drop them off at these selected libraries with donation corners:
- Bedok Library
- Bishan Library
- Geylang East Library
- Jurong Library
- Toa Payoh Library
- Woodlands Library
Enjoy reading at the Kobo x NLB Sit-n-Read Node
Image credit: @publiclibrarysg via Instagram
Whether you prefer flipping through physical books or giving eReaders a go, the Kobo x NLB Sit-n-Read Node gives you the chance to do both while in the middle of your usual mall run. The next time you’re at City Square Mall, make sure to swing by and check out the space for yourself.
Admission: Free
Date: Now till 11th April 2027
Time: 10am-10pm, Daily
Venue: Level 3, City Square Mall
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Bookworms will also love these:
- Niche bookstores in Singapore
- Grassroots Book Room at Outram Park
- Bookstores with Sing Lit titles to use your SG Culture Pass
Photography by Kai Bin Wong.
Cover image adapted from: The Smart Local, @publiclibrarysg via Instagram