LAHORE: The 33rd Lahore International Book Fair began here at Expo Centre on Friday.

The fair which, will remain open till Feb 5, brought several local and international book publishers, retailers, sellers and marketeers under one roof attracting book lovers of all ages.

“We’ve been holding the fair for the last 33 years in a bid to attract people towards books,” Zubair Saeed, Lahore International Book Fair Trust chairman, told Dawn. “As the digital media has almost taken over books, we must join hands to keep peoples’ reading habits intact,” he added.

The 270 stalls showcased a variety of books on medical, poetry, engineering, science, art, culture, novels, biographies, travelogues, textbooks, guides, general knowledge, history, social sciences, geographic and religion.

“Since the social media is spoiling our young generation, it is our duty to bring our children to such exhibition and divert their attention towards books,” Salman, a visitor, said while shuffling books at a stall.

According to event organisers, Saudi Arabia participated for the first time in the book fair.

“A Saudi citizen placed a stall by representing his institution Roshnay from Saudi Arabia,” said Nazeer Bhatti, an organiser.

The fair had drawing activities for children. The winners were also awarded prizes. “This event is wonderful, really. People must attend such events with their kids,” said Ms Nasreen.

A student doctor said though the digital media took over the books, it contributed a lot really. “Since it is very difficult for us to again and again read heavy medical books, I get important information related to my subjects online. It doesn’t mean we should leave books. That is why I’m here to get some books to increase my general knowledge,” said Arsalan.

Organisers criticised the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) for not allowing them good publicity of the event to raise awareness among the masses about this mega event.

“Every year, PHA cooperates with us. But this time, they didn’t cooperate with us in displaying our steamers of the event in various parts of the city,” Mr Saeed said. “It is very sad, really,” he deplored.

Published in Dawn, February 2nd, 2019