In Tehran Int’l Book Fair
Leader emphasizes value of books amid digital age challenges
Iran’s Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei toured the 35th Tehran International Book Fair (TIBF) on Monday morning, emphasizing the importance of reading and the role of books in society. He addressed the impact of the digital age on reading habits, cautioning against allowing virtual spaces to overshadow the importance of books.
During his three-hour tour, Ayatollah Khamenei interacted with publishers, authors, and booth owners, gaining insights into the latest publications and the state of the book market. In an interview following his tour, he highlighted his personal interest in books as a primary motivation for his visit, stating that promoting reading was another significant reason for attending the fair, khamenei.ir reported.
“I believe that people from all walks of life, across various age groups and educational backgrounds, need books,” Ayatollah Khamenei said. “Nothing can replace the value of books.”
Emphasizing the need for support from government agencies, such as the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, and cultural organizations in promoting book reading, he urged them to focus on producing suitable literature for young people.“Producing appropriate books for the young generation is essential,” Ayatollah Khamenei stated. “Authorities must strive to provide both the opportunity and access to quality literature for youth.”
He underscored the need for books addressing significant historical and ideological topics, suggesting a lack of adequate literature in areas such as the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Sacred Defense and the lives of prominent figures like Imam Khomeini.
Ayatollah Khamenei urged increased efforts in producing engaging and informative books for the youth. The Tehran International Book Fair, one of the largest cultural events in Iran, showcases a wide array of publications and serves as a platform for literary exchange and discourse. The book fair began on May 8 and will welcome book lovers until May 18.
The first edition of the international cultural event was held in 1988 with 16 thousand titles of books on show. The cultural event has turned into a landmark, momentous book fair in the Middle East and Asia after 34 editions in a row.