MAKATI CITY — Nestled in the bustling heart of Makati, The Stacks at One Ayala has evolved from a beloved pop-up into a permanent sanctuary for bibliophiles and casual readers alike. What began as a limited-time pop-up reading space from January 28 to February 6, 2026, quickly captured the hearts of Makati's community, leading to its permanent return on the fourth level of One Ayala. The space is now part of Ayala Malls' "Our Common Place" initiative, which provides shared spaces for work, rest, and community engagement.
A Space to Read, Relax, and Connect
The Stacks is designed as a "third place" where visitors can pause, relax, and connect with others in the middle of a fast-paced city. The space is thoughtfully arranged with comfortable bean bags and tiered seating with cushions, creating a cozy environment for reading. On the ground floor, visitors can browse and purchase new books from partners like Fully Booked and Biblio, while the upper level serves as a quiet reading area for those seeking a peaceful escape. The space is open to everyone, office workers, daily commuters, nearby residents, and book clubs.
The Heart of The Stacks: Book Donation and Swapping
A core part of The Stacks' advocacy is its "donate one, get one" book-swapping program. Visitors are invited to bring their pre-loved books and exchange them for new or gently used ones, helping to build a vibrant community of readers. The shelves are always open for book donations, ensuring a constant flow of new stories for the community to enjoy. This simple system connects book lovers, allowing them to share their favorite stories with others while encouraging a sustainable cycle of reading and sharing.
Plan Your Visit
The Stacks is located on the fourth floor (Level 4) of One Ayala in Makati City. The space is free and open to the public, and visitors are encouraged to bring their pre-loved books in good condition to participate in the book swap. To maintain a pleasant environment for all, bringing snacks into the space is not allowed, and visitors are reminded to handle shared books with care; avoiding folded pages or scribbling on them.
