He admitted that this really annoys him (Stock Image) (Image: The Good Brigade via Getty Images)
For any devoted bookworm, stepping through the doors of a Waterstones is nothing short of entering a sanctuary. It’s a meticulously curated heaven, built on the comforting scent of fresh paper, the quiet hum of fellow readers, and the thrill of endless literary escapes. It is the kind of place where you can happily lose track of time just wandering the aisles, searching for your next great adventure.
But even in paradise, there is a catch. Just as you find that flawless, pristine edition you’ve been hunting for, a jarring reality sets in. There is one surprisingly common habit carried out by the otherwise beloved staff that instantly breaks the spell – and it is driving some customers absolutely crazy.
Customer JR recently shared his “beef” with bookseller Waterstones over something he simply cannot forgive – and independent stores are guilty of it too.
He hates how employees place buy-one-get-one-half-price stickers on books. While it’s handy to know which items are included in this promotion, it can be a real pain to peel the stickers off without damaging the covers.
JR confessed to being “addicted” to collecting the stamps as he purchases “multiple books,” but the “gripe” he had with them had become too much to bear.
“To be fair to you, it’s not just you. It’s all bookstores,” JR shared. “If this sticker gets removed, I promise you, the book cover will be ruined.”
Fearing the sticky residue – or “nasty stuff” – would ruin his new purchases, he joked that he’d just have to leave it on and let everyone know he scored a bargain.
In the comments section, people weighed in on the debate. A bookstore worker replied: “Dude, you can ask your bookseller to remove it for you, we are happy to help! Also, we don’t have a choice: we are told the stickers need to go on the books. We don’t make the decision.”
Another commented: “Peel it off, use alcohol wipes to clean the gunk off. Spotless”.
However, some agreed with JR’s complaint and wished booksellers would reconsider. One said: “Can confirm that stupid little sticker ruined my sprayed edge copy of Blood Over Bright Haven”.
Waterstones explained that they utilise an adhesive designed to be easily removed, rather than presenting a challenge, as JR reports.
They also confirmed that it should not leave any residue and, consequently, should not damage the book.
Should you experience difficulty removing the sticker, or in the unlikely event that it causes any damage to your book, Waterstones advises contacting their customer service team, who will be pleased to help and offer guidance.
