Karachi: — Senator Sarmad Ali, Chairman Senate Library Committee, addressed the significance of books and libraries in national development while speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2nd Karachi Festival of Books and Libraries 2025, held.
Senator Sarmad Ali referred to the core Islamic message of “Iqra” and stated that reading and education form the foundation of a progressive society.
He remarked, “Books and libraries must be treated as living institutions, requiring continuous attention, upgradation, and reorganization.”
Expressing concern over the declining reading culture, he said, “Unfortunately, libraries have not received the attention they deserve, which has resulted in a gradual decline in reading habits across the country.”
Recalling past practices, the Senator noted, “There was a time when small libraries existed in almost every neighborhood, a culture that has now largely disappeared.”
Senator Sarmad Ali further noted the reduction in book publishing trends, observing, “Earlier, the minimum circulation of published books was around 3,000 copies, whereas today it has declined to nearly 300.”
However, he expressed optimism over the revival of reading culture, citing the Karachi International Book Fair, which attracted nearly 500,000 visitors.
He proposed the observance of a National Library Day or National Book Reading Day, stating, “While the world is rapidly moving towards artificial intelligence, it is imperative that we remain connected to our roots—books—while also integrating modern digital technologies.”
He concluded by quoting Albert Einstein: “The only thing that you absolutely have to know is the location of your library.”
The two-day festival is being organized by the Karachi Festival of Books and Libraries. The opening ceremony was hosted by the festival’s co-founders, senior journalists Aziz Memon and Syed Khalid Mehmood.
The event was attended by Aziz Memon, Syed Khalid Mehmood, Secretary National Book Foundation Murad Ali Momin, National Library of Pakistan representative Hasnain Shah, Azeem Qureshi, and Mehboob Shah. The festival will feature book stalls and literary sessions over two days.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
