New bookshop opens in Seaqaqa, supports community

Residents of Seaqaqa now have easier access to books and stationery following the opening of a new bookshop earlier this month.

The Seaqaqa Bookshop, owned by local resident Tauseef Khan, officially opened on January 3 and is located next to the Sugar Cane Growers Fund office in Seaqaqa.

The shop aims to provide a convenient option for students, parents and members of the public who previously had to travel to Labasa to purchase books, stationery and other essentials.

Mr Khan said the idea to open the bookshop came from his wife after they noticed many Seaqaqa residents were forced to travel long distances and wait in lengthy queues in Labasa just to buy school supplies and reading materials.

The bookshop was established through his wife’s business, The Art House by Saleha Dean.

“I saw the difficulty people were facing, especially families and students, and I wanted to do something to benefit the community,” Mr Khan said.

“This shop is for the people of Seaqaqa so they do not have to travel far anymore.”

Apart from the post office, the Seaqaqa Bookshop is the only dedicated bookshop currently operating in the area, making it a timely and much-needed addition for the growing community.

Mr Khan acknowledged the support he received from his family in making the venture possible and thanked his wife, Saleha Sariya Dean, and his father-in-law, Shaheed Riazu Dean, for their encouragement and assistance.

He said he hoped the new business would bring relief to residents and allow them to shop conveniently within their own town.

The Seaqaqa Bookshop is expected to play an important role in supporting education and small business growth in the area while improving community access to essential learning resources.