Despite the rapid digitalisation of reading materials, paperback books remain the preferred choice among readers in Bangladesh, as research, surveys, and reports consistently indicate that physical books offer a more comfortable and distraction-free reading experience compared to digital alternatives.
While digital reading formats, particularly e-books, have gained some traction, younger generations continue to struggle with distractions from social media and a preference for quick, superficial information consumption rather than in-depth reading.
This trend is having a significant impact on reading culture in the country.
The month-long Ekushey Book Fair 2024 concluded with record-breaking sales of books worth approximately Tk 60 crore, according to figures provided by participating publishers and Bangla Academy. Bangla Academy alone sold books worth Tk 1.36 crore.
In comparison, book sales in the previous years stood at Tk 47 crore in 2023, Tk 52.50 crore in 2022, and a pandemic-induced low of Tk 3.11 crore in 2021, following a peak of Tk 82 crore in 2020.
Paperback books remain popular due to their affordability. In June 2023, paperbacks accounted for 38.8% of the US trade book market. Their lower cost compared to hardcovers makes them more accessible to a wider audience.
A 2021 survey in the US found that 68% of 18–29-year-olds preferred print books. Additionally, college graduates were more inclined towards print books than those without a diploma, and women read print books more than men.
By 2029, the global physical book market is expected to serve approximately 1.9 billion readers, while e-reader users are projected to reach 1.2 billion by 2027.
Despite the growing presence of e-books, print books continue to dominate. In 2023, the US saw 767.36 million print books sold, while e-books accounted for only 9.9% of total trade sales in the consumer book market. Although e-book revenues rose by 4% in September 2024 compared to the previous year, they remain a secondary preference.
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A report from an international business magazine found that Bangladeshis read for an average of 10 minutes per day, amounting to 62 hours annually. Bangladesh ranked 97th among 102 countries in reading time, with the top five being the United States, India, England, France, and Italy.
Physical Books Appeal
Despite the convenience of e-books, the sensory experience of reading a printed book remains unmatched. Writer and journalist Mizanur Rahman Sohel highlighted that printed books help readers focus, put less strain on the eyes, and provide a lasting connection.
Writer Rina Tuli echoed this sentiment, stating that printed books are integral to cultural and social traditions. Similarly, writer Rahitul Islam reaffirmed that printed books hold a special place in the hearts of readers and will continue to do so.
Co-founder of Tourdibo.com, Anik Hossain, plans to purchase books by emerging writers at the upcoming book fair to encourage their craft. Poet Sharafat Hussain, who is also the Head of Digital at Daily Ittefaq, noted that excessive screen time makes people restless, further reinforcing the significance of physical books as a form of relief and escape.
Book enthusiast Zakia Rayhana Rupa has taken the initiative to promote reading culture in Dhaka by launching a micro-library at Dhanmondi Lake Park. Inspired by Germany’s "Little Free Libraries," she set up a wooden bookshelf where readers can borrow, read, and return books.
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Similarly, Pathagar Andolon Bangladesh, a non-profit platform founded in Cumilla in 2005, has been working to ensure reading is not confined to schools. Coordinator Imam Hossain established ‘Vidyasagar Unmukto Pathagar’ at the age of 14, which encouraged others to create community libraries. The organisation now has around 200 libraries across Bangladesh.
The Rise of Book Cafés
The concept of book cafés, long popular in Western countries, is now flourishing in Bangladesh. These spaces offer a tranquil environment for readers and serve as cultural hubs for literature enthusiasts.
Pathak Shamabesh – Established in 1987, this bookstore and library is a favourite among readers. It offers a unique Reader’s Club Membership, allowing patrons to deposit Tk 20,000 in advance for purchases.
Bengal Boi – Founded in 2017, this bookstore café promotes reading and hosts literary events. It provides a serene outdoor space for book lovers.
Boi Chottor – Located in Shyamoli, it offers a wide collection of imported books and nationwide home delivery.
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PBS – Established in 2010, it is Bangladesh’s first bookstore café chain, offering an extensive range of books across multiple genres and a children’s reading zone.
Baatighar – Founded in Chattogram in 2005, this library-style bookstore has expanded to multiple cities, offering a quiet space for readers.
The Reading Café, Dhanmondi – Operating since 2014, it specialises in imported books and hosts frequent literary events.
Bookworm Bangladesh – Established in 1994, this café bookstore is renowned for its collection of English books and its peaceful atmosphere.
Nerdy Bean Coffee Haus – Open since 2017, it blends a café experience with a literary retreat, catering to book lovers with a vast collection of English titles.
Vive – A recently founded study café offering a comfortable environment for reading, studying, and remote work, with no entry fee.
Dhaka’s diverse range of bookstores, reading cafés, and study spaces reflect the unwavering love for physical books. Despite digital advancements, readers continue to embrace the tangible experience of flipping through pages, making printed books an enduring cultural staple in Bangladesh.