Allure of old books alive in Lahore
Every Sunday, a stretch of pavement near the Mall Road and Anarkali hosts one of Lahore's oldest traditions - a market dedicated to used and rare books.
More than a place of commerce, the Sunday book bazaar has long served as a symbol of the city's intellectual and cultural heritage. Yet, like many aspects of traditional reading culture, it is struggling to withstand the rapid changes brought about by the digital age.
The rise of smartphones, tablets and the internet has transformed the way people access information. While technology has made knowledge more readily available than ever before, it has also contributed to the decline of neighbourhood libraries and reduced the role of printed books in everyday life.
There was a time when small libraries scattered across Lahore's streets and neighbourhoods served as gathering places for students, readers and intellectuals. School and college students spent evenings reading books, browsing newspapers and engaging in discussions. Today, a mobile phone often serves as the primary gateway to information, challenging the traditional role of books and libraries.
Still, the Sunday book market has been a destination for readers seeking rare novels, textbooks, historical documents and literary classics. Elderly visitors still recall the days when pavements were lined with towering stacks of books and crowded with eager buyers, but booksellers say those scenes have become increasingly rare.
However, despite the decline in footfall, the market continues to preserve a unique charm. Yellowed pages, out-of-print editions and forgotten authors still attract readers who maintain a deep connection with the written word. Although access to knowledge has expanded through digital platforms, many believe the value of books remains unchanged.
Umair Akbar, who has been selling books at the market for nearly 30 years, said inflation has significantly affected sales.
"People are struggling to meet basic household expenses, and buying books is no longer a priority for many families," he said. "The government should introduce programmes to promote reading habits, while parents and teachers must play a stronger role in encouraging children to read."
Ahmed Raza, a student of the Government College University Lahore, said books remain an essential source of learning despite the abundance of online material.
"Digital content is easily available, but books are still the most reliable source for academic preparation," he said. "The Sunday market allows students to purchase quality books at affordable prices."
Another visitor, Maryam Fatima, who works in the private sector, said she had been an avid reader of novels since childhood.
"Reading on a mobile phone becomes tiring after a while," she said. "Holding a book and turning its pages offers an entirely different experience. I make it a point to buy at least a few books every month."
Retired professor Sajjad Hussain believes books do more than provide information.
"They teach people how to think," he said. "The decline in reading habits among younger generations is affecting critical thinking skills and language proficiency."
Muhammad Usman, an educationist, said a society's intellectual development is closely linked to its reading culture.
"Books encourage curiosity, questioning and deep reflection, whereas much of the content available on social media is often limited to superficial information," he said.
He added that excessive screen time is reducing young people's ability to concentrate.
"Reading books improves focus and analytical skills. This is one reason why developed countries continue to invest in libraries and reading programmes," he said.
Khadija Asif, a psychology student, said reading can also contribute to mental well-being.
"When people read, they temporarily disconnect from daily pressures and immerse themselves in another world," she said. "This helps reduce stress and promotes positive thinking."
Literary critic and author Captain (retired) Dr Khalid Pervez described books as the collective memory of a nation.