Thousands Queue Outside KL Bookstore as 200,000 Free Books Up for Grabs
A Sign of Enduring Popularity
Long queues can be seen as book lovers eagerly await their turn to enter the bookstore at KL East Mall. (Bernama pic)
KUALA LUMPUR: In a sign that physical books are still popular among Malaysians, one bookstore’s initiative to give away free books was met with an overwhelming response as thousands of eager bibliophiles queued up for over two hours to claim their copies.
200,000 Books on Offer
The bookstore, located in KL East Mall here, is offering 200,000 books of various genres over three days from yesterday.
Why Physical Books Remain Popular
Bernama spoke with several people waiting patiently for their turn, all of whom had one thing in common: they still prefer reading physical books over digital formats.
A Calmer and More Comfortable Reading Experience
University student R Vishal, 19, said while the world, including his peers, is increasingly inclined towards digital reading materials, he still chooses physical books as he feels calmer, more comfortable, and less distracted while reading them.
A Desire to Foster a Love of Reading in Children
Private sector employee Tan Xiao Ren, 39, said he wanted to find suitable reading materials for his two children, aged seven and four, to encourage them to pick up the reading habit at an early age.
The Importance of Reading Culture
Lecturer Sophie Yusof, 46, believes that, when promoted properly, physical reading materials and reading culture will always have a place in society.
Attracting More Readers
Media studies lecturer Mohamed Shamil Hizamie Mohamed Norhisham opined that the bookstore’s initiative could attract more people to start reading, especially those who cannot afford to buy books.
Expanding Reading Culture to the Younger Generation
As for the younger generation, “we need to be more creative in order to encourage them to read”, he noted. “The fact that book fairs are packed proves there is already a group of book lovers; but we should focus on expanding reading culture to everyone, not just a small segment.”
Conclusion
The high turnout is proof that physical books still play an important role in people’s lives, even in this digital age. The bookstore’s initiative serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting reading culture and making books more accessible to everyone.
FAQs
* What is the bookstore offering?
+ 200,000 free books of various genres over three days.
* Why are people queuing up for hours?
+ To claim their free copies of books, with many preferring physical books over digital formats.
* What is the response to the initiative?
+ Overwhelming, with thousands of people queuing up for over two hours to claim their books.