NILES, Ohio - The story of Borders bookstore is entering its final chapter. 

After failing to receive any bids to keep it in business, the bankrupt bookseller is expected to ask the court for approval to sell off its assets.  The sell off will mean the closure of Borders across the country.

News that Borders stores will be closing forced many loyal customers in the Valley to contemplate the changing retail environment and its effect on big box stores.

Travis Patchin visits the Niles Borders several times a month.  He says, "It's sad that everything's going online now.  I like it better when I can actually pick up the book and look at it in my hands or whatever.  Now you can't do that."

For many people, it's not just the feel of the book in their hands they'll miss while shopping, its the atmosphere inside the large bookstore. Constantine Polumbis says, "It's like a sensible feeling you know.  There are not that many stores you can just come and sit and enjoy everything it has to offer.  I'll buy books online but it won't be the same."

If approved by the judge, Borders hopes to begin its liquidation sales as early as Friday.  It could be out of business by September, leaving gapping holes in malls across the country, including at the Eastwood Mall. 

Cafaro Company spokesman Joe Bell says they're hoping to limit the amount of time the space is vacant. Bell says, "There have been discussions with people who might be interested in a store space of that size.  It may not be a book seller.  It may be another type of retailer or restauranteur but that size space may be adaptable to any number of uses."

Borders will be back in bankruptcy court on Thursday.