As major book retailers retreat across Singapore, a tenacious new micro-bookstore, Eliko Picture Books & Collectibles, is proving that passion can outweigh square footage. Tucked into an unlikely corner of the bustling Chinatown Complex Market and Food Centre, owner Maylin has opened what is likely the city-state’s smallest literary outpost, dedicated solely to the enduring magic of vintage and out-of-print children’s picture books.
The launch of Eliko comes at a precarious time for physical bookstores in Singapore. Increased operating expenses and the aggressive migration toward e-books and streaming have pressured long-standing institutions. In recent months, Singapore has seen the closure of the final physical outlets for both Epigram Books and Times Bookstores, alongside the significant downsizing of the flagship Kinokuniya location at Takashimaya. This trend suggests that launching a new literary venture might be a high-risk endeavor, yet idealistic entrepreneurs like Maylin are refusing to let the dedicated local book scene fade.
Finding Wonder in a 65-Square-Foot Space
Nestled within the dense maze of the Chinatown Complex, Eliko measures a mere 65 square feet, making it an intimate and highly curated haven for printed treasures. Maylin’s mission is clear, centered on the idea that “Picture books delight. Why should kids have all the magic? We grown-ups need wonder too.”
Far from a standard retail operation, Eliko specializes exclusively in vintage and rare picture books. These titles, spanning decades and often out of circulation, offer a potent dose of nostalgia and artistry for readers of all ages. Signaling the shop’s warm, DIY ethos, the storefront features hand-drawn cardboard signage and hand-lettered markers.
Beyond the books, guests will find shelves holding a rotating collection of collectible trinkets, including various art pieces, antique toys, and forgotten curios, all available for purchase.
Storytelling as Currency
Eliko offers a unique and highly personal approach to engaging its patrons. For customers seeking a quiet immersion in the collection, an hour-long reading session is available for an $8 fee, which includes a complimentary cup of coffee.
However, the shop’s most compelling feature is its alternative entry method: waiving the reading fee if the visitor chooses to share a story with Maylin. This inventive premise underscores the shop’s primary goal of nurturing community connection and fostering an appreciation for narratives, elevating the experience beyond a simple transaction. The goal, Maylin suggests, is to cultivate a space dedicated to sharing and celebrating the tactile joy of printed works.
In an economy increasingly dominated by digital giants and large-scale retail, small, purpose-driven ventures like Eliko demonstrate the resilience of niche interests and community-focused commerce. They remind Singaporean consumers that some experiences—like discovering a forgotten gem in a physical bookshop—cannot be replicated online.
Plan Your Visit
Eliko Picture Books & Collectibles is situated at Chinatown Complex, unit #01-079, 335 Smith Street. Given its micro-size and recent opening, the shop does not currently appear on Google Maps. Potential visitors are advised to refer to the official Instagram account, @eliko.sg, for the latest weekly opening hours and helpful directions.