East Azerbaijan; A Model for Library Transformation in the Country

According to the reporter of the Iran Book News Agency (IBNA) in Tabriz, Asad Babaei announced at a press conference this afternoon a significant growth in the number of libraries in the province, stating that the number of libraries in the province has increased from 141 in 2022 to 152.

He predicted that this number would reach 155 by the end of the current year.

Babaei, referring to the implementation of unique projects nationwide, noted: “The ‘Child Reader’ project is being implemented for the first time in the country in East Azerbaijan. Also, the ‘Global Elders’ project, with 15,000 senior members, is considered one of the most successful national initiatives.”

He announced 30 library projects underway across the province, clarifying that 16 of these libraries have been inaugurated and 14 projects are under construction.

The Director-General of Public Libraries of the province also announced the holding of the national conference ‘Centenary of Shahab al-Din Ahari’ on February 14th in Ahar county, adding: “Focus on digital transformation and knowledge-orientation are our main priorities, and all provincial libraries have been equipped with children’s sections.”

He praised librarians, calling them ‘unsung cultural soldiers’ who, despite low salaries, are providing services with dedication and high productivity.

Finally, he announced the opening of Bustanabad Central Library as the first central library of a county in the province, describing it as a symbol of transformation in the field of books and reading in East Azerbaijan.