By now, regular visitors to various BookXcess outlets will realise that each outlet is unique and quite unlike most other book stores. At BookXcess, other than the tens of thousands of books, the size and architecture of the stores can leave one feeling a sense of awe. Yes, BookXcess isn’t your regular book store. It’s full of spots where you won’t be able to resist taking selfies and posting on social media…immediately! I rarely use exclamation marks but BookXcess at REXKL is more than deserving of a few exclamation marks!
Stepping into what was once the reserved seating hall of the old REX cinema (I was a regular there in the mid-90s), I was greeted by towering shelves of the more than 80,000 books this outlet has. Not for the mobility challenged though as there are steps which take you higher and higher and some pathways are really narrow. It channels the vibe of the narrow street and alleys of Chinatown where REXKL is prominently located.
This outlet which opened in November 2021 is truly like no other book store I have ever been to. The pillars, floor tiles and stairs of the old cinema are still there, brough back a bit of nostalgia for me. Every visitor who comes to this outlet will definitely whip out their phone within the first 5 minutes for photos.
I had a good workout climbing up and down the stairs a few times. There are several stairs to climb up/down and for a first-time visitor, it’s like a journey of discovery as you don’t know where you’ll end up after taking a particular flight of stairs. This is by far the most interesting book store I have been to anywhere.
There are so many nooks and corners here, great place for hide-and-seek but I am just joking as it’s hardly the place for running around. It might be a little challenging looking for a book you want but just ask the friendly staff who can let you know in a jiffy whether your book is available or not.
The topmost level can be a bit warm, I was sweating as I sat on a bench and it was too dim there. I guess I am used to brighter lighting in book stores. I had to be extra careful as I navigated the stairs as I have tripped and fallen before which led to weeks of healing my arm/hand. Actually, I did have a little accident at this store as I bumped my left knee against the wooden bench and there’s now a huge blue-black bruise,
Some facts about BookXcess REXKL:
Opened : 26.11.2021
Operating Hours : Closed every Monday
Tuesday to Thursday & Sunday – 10.00am to 10.00pm
Friday & Saturday – 10.00am to 12.00am
Location : 2nd Floor, REXKL
80, Jalan Sultan, City Centre, 50000 KL
The Space : 10,708.55 sq. ft.
