What started as a basic website, selling a self-published map of Malta by the name of ‘Discover Malta’ has, 25 years later, evolved into ‘ www.maltaonlinebookshop.com’ a virtual Maltese Bookshop.

Patrick Anastasi had no real computer or e-selling knowledge but was eager to get the selfpublished map ‘Discover Malta’ to new customers. He therefore roped in friend Ronald Camilleri, who at the time was an internet service provider holding the name of ‘Camline’.

The two toyed with the idea and with the help of Ronald, created the first ever ‘Discover Map’ website which was launched in 1995. Selling the map online was an innovate idea and after the encouraging response received, Patrick added third party guidebooks to the portfolio.

The idea was a hit, and so Patrick sought to extend his portfolio with local publications.

Tony Gatt from BDL Ltd and Joseph Mizzi from Klabb Kotba Maltin and Midsea Books Ltd were the first Maltese Publishing houses to add their publications to this online website.

With an increasing portfolio, Patrick once again took the plunge and in 2001 registered the first ever Maltese Online Bookshop; ‘www.maltaonlinebookshop.com’.

Originally hosted in the United States and later transferred locally it then offered a variety of guidebooks, Melitensia and Rumanzi.

The Facebook page ‘Malta Online Bookshop’ was later created.

Now, founder and retired banker, Patrick Anastasi can dedicate all his time to a dream that came to mind 25 years ago and has since evolved into a specialised Maltese local virtual bookshop offering over 2000 titles, including a stock of over 500 out of print publications.

To celebrate this milestone, www.maltaonlinebookshop.com has gone through a major facelift all to ensure a better shopping experience to its customers.

Patrick takes this opportunity to thank all who are involved in this marvellous journey including local publishers and distributers, customers and followers, both locally and abroad.