With increased competition from online stores and digital alternatives, bookstores in Japan are belatedly following their overseas brethren out of business, so convenience store chains are stepping in to cater to readers who like to peruse a page or two before they buy.

Of the three biggest convenience store chains, Lawson Inc. already has books on sale at thousands of locations, Seven-Eleven Japan Co. is offering advanced sales of a popular children's book, and FamilyMart Co. has integrated a bookstore with one of its outlets.

The convenience store chains are aiming to cash in on customers who are willing to pick up a book with their bento.