Gen-Z Book Shopping Trends: High Interest in Digital Platforms
Young people, commonly referred to as Generation Z (Gen-Z), are said to still maintain an interest in physical books despite the increasing abundance of digital content. However, there has been a shift in how they acquire books, with a growing preference for digital platforms.
Director of Ikapi, Mokhamad Natsir, stated that the presence of digital media does not necessarily mean Gen-Z’s interest in physical books has vanished. According to him, Gen-Z and Millennials still represent a significant opportunity as readers and book buyers.
“In reality, there is no difference. In fact, Singapore and several European countries are returning to books rather than relying solely on mobile phones,” Natsub said when met during the Indonesia International Book Fair (IIBF) 2026 at the Jakarta International Convention Center (JICC), Jakarta, on Friday (2/10/2026).
According to Natsir, physical books possess a different character compared to the short-form reading material frequently found in digital media. He noted that books provide more structured information, whether for reference materials or novels. Therefore, physical books are deemed to still hold a place amidst a society becoming increasingly accustomed to digital media.
“For informative reading, reference books, or novels, there needs to be clarity and authenticity, and the language is also more relaxed compared to scrolling through content that can sometimes be confusing,” he added.
Nevertheless, Natsir believes that publishers need to adapt to the changing habits of Gen-Z when purchasing books. He noted that young people no longer necessarily need to visit exhibitions or bookstores in person to find the reading material they desire. “They do not always have to visit a stand, a bookstore, or an agent. They can access them through social media as they do now,” he said.
Regarding Islamic books, Natsir noted that interest among Gen-Z remains steady and has not yet shown a significant increase. However, certain types of Islamic books are still able to capture the attention of Gen-Z, particularly when Islamic values are packaged through lighter stories that resonate with their characters.
He cited ‘Api Tauhid’ by Habiburrahman El Shirazy, which explores the history of Islamic figures through the medium of a novel. According to Natsir, such an approach makes young readers more receptive to historical material that might feel heavy if presented as a standard reference book.
“Reading history directly can be overwhelming, but when it is novelised, like ‘Api Tauhid’, it is extraordinary. Many Gen-Z individuals purchase it as well. We tend to focus on how to infuse Islamic spirit through such methods,” he remarked.
Natsir added that, in addition to novels, motivational books also continue to attract Gen-Z readers. Such reading material is considered suitable for the needs of young people who are seeking direction regarding education, employment, and their personal lives.