Lahore Book Shop: Reviving the tradition of reading in digital world
In an age dominated by Kindles, e-books, and audiobooks, Lahore Book Shop, one of Ludhiana’s oldest bookstores, continues to stand tall, encouraging the timeless art of reading traditional paperbacks.
Founded in 1941 by Jiwan Singh on Nisbat Road in pre-independence Lahore, the bookstore is now located near Society Plaza (formerly Society Cinema) in the historic lanes of Ludhiana. The shop has witnessed multiple generations and changing times. There was once an era when books were cherished, and the shop was frequently visited by readers. However, there was also a period when youngsters used to visit secretly, as parents feared that excessive reading of novels would lead to neglecting important activities such as studying, social interaction, or physical exercise. Today, the tables have turned, and parents are now encouraging their children to read, often bringing them along as children become increasingly absorbed in their smartphones. Life has truly come full circle at this beloved bookstore.
Gurmmanat Singh, the present owner of Lahore Book Shop, recognised the importance of adapting to the modern world. He embraced the popular saying, Jo dikhta hai, woh bikta hai (What is seen, sells), and made the shop’s presence known online. “We launched a website and an instagram account to ensure that people could find us. With online shopping becoming a trend, we have made this facility available to readers who may find it difficult to visit the old city area,” said Gurmmanat.
After offering the option for online purchases, the shop has seen an increase in orders. “I won’t say we’ve been overwhelmed with orders, but gradually, the interest is growing. The younger generation needs to get involved in book reading; otherwise, they will lose the charm of turning pages and gaining knowledge, instead getting lost in the endless scrolling of screens,” added Gurmmanat.
Ritu, a recent online customer, shared her experience: “There are many instagram accounts promoting book reading and recommending books. I came across one such account, and I was amazed by the book choices and the options available. I realised how I had let my habit of reading fade away. I’m happy to be back to my old love of reading books, and I was thrilled to find that Lahore Book Shop, where I used to buy books, still exists and delivers online. Without hesitation, I ordered a few books for myself.”
“I’m a regular visitor at Lahore Book Shop and am happy to see how this historic bookstore is diligently reigniting the love for reading, not only among the people of Ludhiana but worldwide,” said Kulwant Singh, a retired professor.
Lahore Book Shop continues to uphold the tradition of physical books, adapting to modern trends without losing the essence of its long-established mission: to keep the joy of reading alive.
