NOT too long ago, you could easily come across people reading a physical book on the train or bus. That is a rarer sight today, with almost everyone busy tapping away on their mobile phones or some other electronic device.

Not only do brick-and-mortar bookstores have to deal with declining patronage, they also have to compete in a world with alternatives such as e-books, and local and international e-commerce platforms that deliver books right to one's doorstep.

Mohd Noorul Islam, the 69-year-old owner of ANA Book Store, is one who acknowledges these disruptive challenges in front of him as he tries to keep his business going for as long as possible, despite seeing profits decline in recent years.