Our Team: An Independent Family Business Since 1985
It takes generational passion to ensure consistency and growth over decades. Here's a photo and a few words about the family behind the company.
Our employees are family too, with several being with Books Asia for 15 or 20 years – they are the driving force, the heartbeat of the company. Having a loyal and experienced team of Cataloguers, Servicing Specialists and Developers made it possible to support our libraries with all their needs. Our team offers decades of combined library supply expertise, with knowledge of global languages/cultures. As a collective, we love what we do, and take pride in each and every book we supply.
Mahmudul Haq
Founding Director
He began his career as Professor of Geography at Dhaka University, before spending 20 years teaching in the inner-city schools of Bradford.
His passion for books, knowledge and education provided the vision to launch Books Asia in 1985.
He was a keen reader of classic Bengali literature and served as our Bengali specialist.
He was a strong believer in business ethics and was deeply committed to the book industry.
He sadly passed away in December 2024.
His values, vision, and passion for books continue to guide the work of Books Asia.
Shomi Haq
Director / Project Manager
He previously worked as a Systems Analyst at HSBC, a Consultant at KPMG, and a Project Manager at William Hill.
An experienced PRINCE2 Practitioner, he developed our bespoke Library System, our MARC Generators and our Website.
He designed and developed Books Asia EDI from the ground up after joining Books Asia in 2010.
Shomi became Director in 2014, at which time the company was also restructured as Books Asia Ltd.
A self-confessed 'Geek', he is passionate about business-led technology. His current focus is on the use and implementation of AI models for the library industry.
Tazrian Haq
Business Development
Tazrian joined Books Asia in 2022 to focus on business development, with particular emphasis on social media engagement and CRM.
As part of the third generation involved in the business, he is focused on building on Books Asia's growth and reputation.
Tazrian graduated from the London College of Music, and is an accomplished Guitarist and Vocalist.
When he's not busy in the office (or visiting libraries), you'll find him performing at Music Venues across Yorkshire.