The five-day Karachi World Book Fair (KWBF) concluded on Monday at the Expo Centre, with organisers announcing a record-breaking turnout that underscored the city’s enduring connection with books and reading.
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According to Pakistan Publishers and Booksellers, more than 550,000 people visited the fair over five days, including students from over 300 schools, colleges, universities and seminaries. Organisers said the figure surpassed all previous editions of the annual event.
The strong attendance challenged the commonly held perception that reading habits are declining. Organisers and publishers noted that hundreds of thousands of books were sold during the fair, reflecting a sustained — and possibly growing — interest in reading among the public.
📚✨ Last day of KWBF 2025! Don’t miss your final chance to visit Expo Centre Karachi (10am–9pm). Find us at Liberty Books, Hall 3, for bestselling reads, new arrivals & special discounts! 📖✨ pic.twitter.com/0pT9hGUxxG
— Liberty Books (@LibertyBooks_) December 22, 2025
One of the most encouraging features of the event was the overwhelming participation of young people. From the opening day on December 18, long queues of schoolchildren were seen outside the Expo Centre, arriving from all parts of Karachi, including Malir, District Central, District East and Clifton. Their excitement and curiosity created a lively atmosphere throughout the venue.
Many children attended with teachers and parents, some carrying bags filled with books ranging from educational material to activity-based titles such as word-search books. Observers noted that even those who did not purchase books were exposed to the sights, sounds and distinctive scent of printed pages — an experience many educators believe helps cultivate a lasting interest in reading.
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Adults, meanwhile, browsed a wide variety of publications covering literature, spirituality, philosophy, self-help and management. A growing culture of celebrating writers and poets was also evident, with visitors eager to meet literary figures such as poet Pirzada Qasim during announced appearances.
The successful conclusion of the fair prompted renewed calls from publishers, readers and educators for more such literary events across the country.