Lahore International Book Fair 2009: 40,000 book-lovers in three days

[LahoreEstate]

* Children’s books remain centre of attention for parents and children * Books by foreign authors attract visitors
* Children from various institutions participate in drawing competition

Staff Report

LAHORE: As many as 40,000 people have visited various bookstalls in three days, especially those selling children’s books, at the Lahore International Book Fair (LIBF) on Monday, which has successfully catered to the reading needs of all segments of the society.

A large number of children, accompanied by their parents, took a keen interest in drawing and entertainment books for children.

Bolti Kitabain: Bolti Kitabain (speaking books) remained the centre of attention at the book fair. These books have been especially designed for children of grade three and below. The compact discs (CDs) that come with these books contain animated objects to promote audio-visual learning among children. Afzal, an employee of the publishing company of Bolti Kitabain said the books had gained immense popularity among the people. He said the company had earlier published books for pre-school children, but after such a large number of sales, it had decided to publish books for children of grade five and below. He said over 100 schools in the city had benefited from these books.

Foreign authors: A sizeable number of visitors were interested in books written by foreign authors. Professors and librarians of various universities and colleges remained busy in the purchasing of books. Women were especially interested in cooking and beautician books.

Talking to Daily Times, Urdu Science Board spokesman Zulfiqar said holding the book fair was a good step from all respects. It allows publishers to introduce themselves to the people while people also get a good opportunity to buy quality books in low prices, he said. Two students, Shehla and Fozia, said such activities should continue in the city as it would help establish a tolerant and peaceful society.

Drawing competition: A drawing competition was held for the children at the book fair. Children from various institutions participated in the competition and showed great interest. Prizes were awarded to the three best artists. The book fair, which was largely dominated by the children, also had clowns clad in colourful dresses to amuse the children. The leading publishing companies offered special discounts on the occasion to boost their sales.

Visitors said such fairs offered them an opportunity to purchase all sorts of books from one place at relatively cheaper prices. Waqar Bhutta, a customer, said there was a diverse variety of books available at the fair. He said such events would promote book reading in the province.