Two-level reading space in Makati fuels hopes for more public reading spots

January 29, 2026 – 2:04 PM

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The pop-up of One Ayala’s

“The Stacks”

in Makati City has book lovers and other Filipinos hoping that similar reading spaces will soon open in other parts of Metro Manila.

The reading space allows bookworms to chill, read, or swap books with fellow bibliophiles at the shopping mall’s Level 2 Concourse until February 6.

“The Stacks” is a two-level library hall designed for people to read books and connect with fellow bookworms by donating their pre-loved books.

Its ground floor is for those who want to browse and shop for books, while the second floor is for those who want to relax and read.

The reading space is an initiative in partnership with

Fully Booked

Biblio

and selected book communities.

It will also host events such as book launches and signings until February 1, with schedules available in

this report

Meanwhile, some Filipinos hope the reading space will be made “permanent” and replicated in other parts of Metro Manila to promote reading, especially in the digital age, when gadgets dominate daily life.

Threads user

wrote.

“Petition to keep it there forever!” another

“Mapasyalan nga this weekend. Sana mag-stay nang permanently sa location. Mukhang masaya at maaliwas siya tambayan,” a different Threads

user

wrote.

“Sana may matagal na installation of similar areas for people sa One Ayala (or anywhere in general),” another

“Wish they stay permanently,” a different Threads

user chimed in

“Omggg, sana gawing permanent!” another

Pinoy wrote

“If we can’t have parks, hoping malls step up to give public spaces,” a different Threads

user

said.

“Dear PH [Philippine] gov’t…” another

Pinoy

Calls for more public access to open spaces have spark discussions

online

Open spaces, such as parks in the metro, offer respite to Filipinos amid the hustle and bustle of urban life.

United Nations Human Settlements Programme

said that “green and open public spaces are crucial for enhancing the health and well-being of urban communities.”

“They promote physical activity, mental wellness, social interactions, and community engagement while reducing air pollution and improving the overall quality of life,” it said in a

document

“Investment in public spaces, especially urban parks, can yield significant economic benefits by reducing healthcare costs. These spaces promote healthier lifestyles, lower stress levels, and improve air quality, ultimately resulting in better health, leading to financial savings and economic resilience,” the programme added.