29/09/2025
CLOSURE ANNOUNCEMENT
Dear friends, vendors, and supporters,
With a heavy heart, I wish to let you know that Tokosue will be closing its doors permanently. This has not been an easy decision. Since we opened the physical shop in 2022, Tokosue has been more than an indie bookstore and zine space. It has been a community built on love for stories, creativity, and the courage to dream differently.
However, despite our various efforts, including a book sale campaign that went viral in March this year, the business model has not been sustainable. After much reflection, I believe the most responsible step is to close Tokosue rather than prolong struggles with debts and limited resources.
On a more personal note, the past few months has been a time of profound change for me. I faced a family tragedy that brought immense grief to process, and more recently I experienced a period of illness that affected my mobility for weeks. These moments reminded me how fragile and precious health and time truly are. My priorities have shifted, and I feel the need to step back from carrying the weight of this business so I can focus on healing and my family.
Please forgive me for no longer having the capacity to “try harder.” I have done the best I can.
I sincerely thank everyone who has supported Tokosue, from customers who believed in indie books and zines, to our dedicated part-timers, vendors and collaborators who trusted us to carry their works, and to friends who stood by us during difficult times. Your encouragement has meant the world to me.
I also want to sincerely apologize for future projects that could not materialize and for plans that can no longer continue with this closure. Please know they were started with hope and dedication, but life’s changes have led me to choose a different path. I am deeply grateful for the patience, trust, and support you have shown throughout.
Clearance Sale (OCTOBER) :
Before we say goodbye, we invite you to join us for a 30-day clearance sale with discounts of up to 70 percent on books, zines, and more. We will also be selling Tokosue’s equipment, including chairs, display racks, book racks, microphones, lighting, CCTV, catering items, and more. We will share a full list and prices soon, but you are also welcome to visit the store to check them out and ask us directly. Purchased items will be available for pick-up in November after payment is made in advance.
Official Closure (NOVEMBER) :
We are fully committed to settling all outstanding dues with our vendors during this closure period. As we clear the shop, we will coordinate the return of books and other items in November, ensuring a smooth and respectful process for everyone involved. For faster response, please email us at [email protected] with any questions or clarifications.
Supporting Tokosue’s Closure :
As we close this chapter, if you wish to support Tokosue one last time, any contributions will go towards easing closure costs and settling commitments with our vendors. Slide next for QR. Your kindness will help us end this journey with the same spirit of care and community that Tokosue has always carried. We are deeply grateful for any support, but please know that your love, encouragement, and presence have already meant the world.
Though the physical shop will close, the spirit of Tokosue will live on through the stories, friendships, and ideas it sparked. I carry deep gratitude for every person who walked through our doors.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me.
With love and respect,
Sue Emoqwin
