Sarat Book House Bookselling, a noble profession

The journey of Sarat Book House, set up close to 70 years ago in Kolkata, documents the evolution and growth of a regional bookseller and publisher in India, and how it has adapted to the changing demands of the bookselling and publishing ecosystem. From early innovations such as opening shelves for customers to browse and curating a niche and rare list of specialist titles, the second generation of the family feels equally dedicated to the books business and has ushered in the next level of changes such as computerisation, starting Sarat's own publishing and reprints lists, expanding to other parts of the country, and running its own press. Subject to systemic and evolutionary challenges, the publishing and bookselling ecosystem demands an agile, flexible yet long-term approach from players like Sarat Book House.