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Minister: Tehran book fair, hub of unity, cultural tourism
35th TIBF opens doors to visitors
Mohammad-Mehdi Esmaeili in a meeting on Wednesday invited everyone to participate in the fair, which began on May 8 at Tehran’s Mosalla, IRNA wrote.
The minister stated, “This year’s fair is being held in a space of 150,000 square meters for the first time, with over 25 countries and thousands of publishers in attendance.”
He further noted, “Cultural equity is significant. Every Iranian can purchase discounted books through the designated system and receive them free at home. Last year, over two million people availed themselves of this service, and we anticipate a similar response this year.”
The fair, themed “Read and Create,” will run from May 8 to 18 virtually and in-person.
With over 2,619 publishers participating, all publishers this year are housed under one roof with no prefabricated structures. In addition, significant increases in allocated space have been made for university, educational, and children’s publishers.
Positive changes this year include increased credit for book purchases and subsidies allocated to students, seminarians, and university professors.
The city of Semnan, known as the capital of Iranian books, is actively participating in this year’s fair, inviting various villages and tribes fond of books. Detailed programs have been arranged for book-loving communities in rural areas.
For the first time, dedicated vehicles for the disabled are stationed at the Shahid Beheshti entrance, providing transport to different sections of the fair. The number of entry gates has also significantly increased, facilitating easier access for attendees compared to previous years.
Various cultural programs are lined up for this edition of the book fair, including special programs related to the people of Gaza, as well as programs tailored for women and girls.
On May 13, 14, and 15, the fair will host an event aimed at introducing Iranian publications to foreign publishers. Approximately 20 publishers and literary agents will attend, visiting printing centers and bookstores during their stay.
This year, around 60 foreign publishers are present, showcasing about 50,000 foreign titles, compared to 45,000 titles last year. Yemen is the special guest of honor at this year’s book fair.