New Delhi: “ when all the schools around the country are closed and people are not supposed to leave home, the power of books should be leveraged to fight isolation, reinforce ties between people, expand our horizons, while stimulating our minds and creativity,” said Dr. Sandeep Marwah President of AAFT University while talking to students on line on World Book Day.

“Books are a uniquely portable magic. That’s the thing about books, they let you travel without moving your feet. These authors, writers, and thinkers know that magical worlds await in between two covers and a spine. I shall be miserable if I have not an excellent library. When I have a little money, I buy books,” added Sandeep Marwah.

Through reading and the celebration of World Book and Copyright Day, 23 April, we can open ourselves to others despite distance, and we can travel thanks to imagination. All these days UNESCO will share quotes, poems and messages to symbolize the power of books and encourage reading as much as possible. By creating a sense of community through the shared readings and the shared knowledge, readers around the world can connect and mutually help curb loneliness.

In such circumstances, we invite students, teachers and readers from around the world as well as the book industry and library services to testify and express their love for reading. We encourage you to share this positive message with others- ‘Stay At Home read books and celebrate World Book Day.