Edison Library to close, Apple to open in Florence

FLORENCE, ITALY – Piazza della Reppublica is one of the most famous in Florence. It exists at the heart of city, and is home to many prestigious local businesses. Florentines and tourists alike flock to piazza for its the historic cafes such as Café Gilli or Café Gubbie Rossi, and for the well known local establishments, such as the famous Libreria Edison.

Libreria Edison has been a celebrated bookstore for years. It has always been a treasured spot for Italian to shop, relax and read. The library reflects traditional Italian social values, and exists as a symbol of the piazza.

Many could not imagine the piazza without the famous bookshop. But soon, residents may have to face this idea as a disheartening reality as recent rumors have been circulating that the store will be closing its doors by early next year.

Its replacement? An Apple Store. This news has swept the city and has been met with very different reactions.

I spent some time outside the bookstore in an attempt to gauge the public’s reaction. Overwhelmingly, the people are disappointed. The Libreria Edison is a landmark, and most people called it a “shame” and a “pity” that it has to close.

The public has noticed a change sweeping the piazza. The recent addition of the Hard Rock Café, along with the news of the Apple store, have cause some to become worried that the piazza is losing its character. Residents have cited these changes as evidence of an Americanization and commercialization of the piazza. They fear that the Italian culture is being severely diminished.

Many acknowledged that Edison’s closing was inevitable, noting that many of the other historic bookstores in the area also had to close. They explained that while they were upset to see Edison close, they expected it.

While these opinions mirror most of the people I spoke with, not all feel the same. Some regard it as a positive step forward for Florence. They see the opening of the Apple store as a reflection of globalization and technological trends of the future.

The younger residents of Florence expressed more positive reactions. The news of a possible Apple store in the piazza was met with eager anticipation. Many said that they were looking forward to Apple coming to Florence.