The National Textile University (NTU) Faisalabad inaugurated a two-day book fair at its Library on Tuesday, aiming to encourage the habit of reading within the community. The event featured stalls from 15 publishers from across Pakistan, showcasing a collection of 25,000 books available at discounted prices. The books covered a wide range of topics, including art, science, textile engineering, literature, Islamic studies, basic and applied sciences, history, biographies, novels, and a dedicated kids’ section.

The book fair attracted a diverse audience, including students, faculty members, research scholars, and book enthusiasts, who explored the extensive collection and purchased books of their interest.

While inaugurating the event, NTU Rector Prof. Dr. Tanveer Hussain emphasized the enduring value of books, describing them as "the best companions." He highlighted the decline of reading culture in the digital age and called for collective efforts to revive this essential habit. He noted, “In the past, people would keep books under their pillows and read late into the night. Despite the prevalence of modern gadgets, the importance of printed books remains irreplaceable.”

Senior Librarian Mushtaq Ahmad reiterated the transformative role of books in nurturing intellect, creativity, and personal development. He underscored that the event’s primary objective was not only to promote reading habits but also to provide affordable access to books under one roof. Addressing concerns about the younger generation, he remarked, “Students may achieve good grades, but the decline in general reading has adversely affected their personality development.”

The opening ceremony witnessed the presence of prominent university officials, including Deans, directors and departmental heads, faculty and a large number of the students attended the inaugural session. Dean School of Arts & Design, Prof. Dr. Zafar Javed, Mr. Salman Saif, Registrar,  Prof. Dr. Rashid Masood, Dean, Office of Graduate Studies & Research, Dr. Danish Mahmood Baitab, Director Students Affairs, Dr. Faiza Anjum, Director Office of the Sustainability, Ms. Nadia Shamim, Assistant Director Students Affairs, Ms. Amber Razzaq, Director Finance, Dr. Aqsa Imran, Dr. Jawad Naeem, Dr. Muhammad Imran Khan, Dr. Hafiz Shahbaz Virk, Mr. Atta Muhammad, University Auditor, Dr. Muhammad Aslam and several departmental heads and faculty members. The event was further enlivened by students clad in traditional attire, warmly welcoming visitors.

The book fair reflects NTU’s commitment to fostering intellectual growth and community engagement, with the hope of rekindling a passion for reading among the younger generation and the wider society.