Lahore: (Right Now News) World Book Day is being celebrated today across the globe, including Pakistan, with participation from over 100 countries. This day is observed annually on April 23 under the auspices of UNESCO.

World Book Day was initiated in 1995, while in the UK and the USA, World Book Day is celebrated on March 4. The aim is to promote reading and encourage authors.

Barriers to promoting reading include low literacy rates, limited purchasing power, and the increasing use of mobile and internet. Lack of government support and libraries are also significant reasons.

On World Book Day, booksellers and publishers can play a crucial role by offering discounts on books. Free distribution of books can also be a positive step.

It is noteworthy that every year in Tehran, a book fair is held where over 2,000 publishers participate with discounts of up to 50%.