# Contemporary Bookstore Concepts Athenaeum is a Millennial-Created Library-Themed Destination By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2018-06-15 | Business Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bookstore-conept References: [prnewswire](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-future-of-bookstores-is-changing-300666292.html) & [athenaeumbookbar](http://www.athenaeumbookbar.com/) 'Athenaeum' is a new bookstore concept that aims to get consumers to "rethink their relationship with bookstores." The Millennial-created concept was developed in response to the fact that many [traditional bookstores are closing](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/good-books) and there is a better way to serve the needs of the modern consumer. The library-themed space is designed to function as everything from a bar and a restaurant to a hangout spot. With a [monthly membership model](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aethos), Athenaeum makes it possible for people to reserve, checkout or even purchase books via its app. With a twist from technology, the bookstore concept allows for visitors to pre-order books and drinks so that they are ready upon one's arrival. The concept also boasts a members-only floor, which can only be accessed by those carrying chip-embedded cards. The first [pop-up will be launching](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/10am-apotheke) in Chicago as of August with an 'Art is Life' theme. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.7/10 - Popularity: 30% | Activity: 74% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Business](https://www.trendhunter.com/business) > [Retail](https://www.trendhunter.com/retail) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Library-themed Spaces:** Creating library-themed spaces that serve as more than just bookstores, offering various amenities and experiences. - **Digital Bookstore Apps:** Developing bookstore apps that allow users to reserve, checkout, and purchase books conveniently, as well as pre-order drinks and snacks. - **Members-only Experiences:** Implementing members-only areas in bookstores, providing exclusive access and privileges to card-carrying customers. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Retail:** Retailers can explore creating innovative bookstore concepts that go beyond traditional retail experiences to attract modern consumers. - **Hospitality:** Hospitality industry players can consider incorporating bookstore-themed bars and restaurants to offer unique and engaging experiences for visitors. - **Technology:** Developers can seize the opportunity to create bookstore apps that enhance the convenience and personalization of book browsing and purchasing. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Open-Air Libraries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ikea-billyotheque.md) - [Immersive High-Fashion Retail Experiences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bookstore-and-caf.md) - [Locally Focused Footwear Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/neighborhood-concept-store.md) - [Community-Centric Brooklyn Bookstores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/archestratus.md) - [Bookstore Wine Shops](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bookstore-wine-shops.md) - [Book Pile Retail Decor](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-store-1.md) - [Women's Literature-Inspired Skincare Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/womens-literature-library.md) - [Communal Reading Events](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/reading-rhythms.md) - [Literary Subscription Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/buffys-book-club.md)