Bookshop to replace a restaurant in Tehran: An auspicious oddity
The prominent Shafaq Book House, which had temporarily ceased its operations in Tehran’s Sa’adat Abad neighborhood, is set to resume activities at its new location on Valiasr Street according to manager Mohammad-Taqi Haqbin.
Haqbin revealed that the store had been searching for a suitable new space since April, after the building’s owner requested they vacate the premises. The 370-square-meter site on Valiasr Street, formerly occupied by a restaurant chain for 15 years, proved to be an ideal location, IBNA reported.
Commenting on the unusual nature of a bookstore replacing a restaurant in Iran, Haqbin noted that it is more common for bookstores to be converted into eateries or cafes. He added that preparations are already underway to equip the new Shafaq Book House location, with a grand reopening celebration for book lovers scheduled by the end of July.
Haqbin also underscored the importance of government support for the new generation of bookstores, calling for special facilities and assistance to ensure their continued success amid increasing operational expenses such as water, electricity, and gas. He pointed out that older generation booksellers often own their store locations, while younger booksellers must contend with additional rental
costs.
Lastly, Haqbin provided an update on the expansion of bookstore space in the country, with an estimated 5,000 square meters being added to storefronts this year through the efforts of private sector activists.