Books embody memory, culture, and resistance, making them targets of destruction throughout history—from Alexandria to Nazi Germany. Yet burning books cannot kill ideas; it only deepens curiosity and weakens civilization. Writing preserves knowledge for eternity, nurturing awareness and growth. Books are more than paper—they are the living breath of human history.
Once bustling with book lovers, Surabaya’s legendary Blauran Used Book Market now stands nearly empty after the Covid-19 pandemic and the rise of online sales. From 35 traders, only 7 remain, struggling to survive. Veteran sellers like Kusni and Saipul persist, valuing tradition and passion despite dwindling buyers and uncertain futures.
Once Jakarta’s book paradise, Kwitang now lies quiet, its bustling alleys of the 1980s–1990s replaced by fewer than 10 shops. Traders face plummeting sales as e-commerce and e-books dominate, yet the market endures—offering readers the irreplaceable joy of browsing shelves, finding rare gems, and savoring the city’s fading literary charm.
Karya Raya 2025 at Taman Ismail Marzuki presents 1,870 children’s books from both Indonesia and abroad, with 70 % contributed by domestic young authors. Each piece remains unedited, preserving the authenticity of their voices. This year’s exhibition set a new MURI record and celebrates youthful creativity and literacy nationwide.