Kermanshah on the Path of Cultural Transformation with 300 Reading Programs / 9 Mobile Libraries to be Launched

According to the correspondent of Iran Book News Agency (IBNA) in Kermanshah, the Director General of Public Libraries of Kermanshah Province, at a press conference related to the start of the 33rd Book Week of the Islamic Republic of Iran with the slogan “Let’s Read for Our Beloved Iran,” explained the programs and actions of this institution in the province: This year, Book Week programs in Kermanshah will be held under the localized title “Let’s Read for Kermanshah,” and 300 cultural programs have been planned for this week.

Mohammadi stated that the main goal of the institution is to facilitate public access to books and encourage citizens to read. He added: “Our aim is to make all people in Kermanshah readers; to provide them with reading opportunities in any field they are interested in, so that Kermanshah can become a model for the country as a land of culture and knowledge.”

He emphasized: “The institution of libraries can act as a cultural refuge during difficult times and provide a peaceful environment.”

The Director General of Public Libraries of the province announced: Currently, 56,000 people are members of the province’s public libraries, and the number of books available in these libraries reaches one billion and 104 million volumes. Currently, Kermanshah Province has 102 library service points, including 62 public libraries, 21 book counters, and shared libraries in government offices and organizations.

Regarding mobile libraries, he added: “Currently, three mobile libraries actively provide services in villages and areas lacking fixed libraries, and in addition to lending books, they also implement cultural programs.”

Mohammadi further added: “In cooperation with the Governor of Kermanshah, a memorandum of understanding has been signed to provide nine mobile library vehicles. Based on this agreement, the province will be responsible for purchasing the vehicles, and the library institution will be responsible for equipping them, providing books, and hiring driver-librarians to strengthen cultural justice and access to services in deprived areas.”

Libraries in Earthquake-Stricken Areas Need Special Attention

The Director General of Public Libraries of the province explained about the reconstruction of libraries damaged by the earthquake: “For the reconstruction of the libraries in earthquake-stricken areas, including two in Sarpol-e Zahab, two in Salas-e Babajani, one in Qasr-e Shirin, and one in Kuzaran, a total of approximately 70 billion tomans is needed.”

He also stated: “The renovation of Shahid Avini Library in Kermanshah requires 30 billion tomans, and the reconstruction of Kermanshah Central Library requires 400 billion tomans. Based on the approvals of the presidential trip, 300 billion tomans from national and provincial resources have been allocated to these projects. Accordingly, the total necessary budget for the complete renovation and equipping of the province’s libraries is estimated at around 500 billion tomans.”

Launch of “Book Studio” and Development of Mobile Libraries in Kermanshah

Mohammadi announced the launch of “Book Studio,” stating its goal is to introduce authors and cultural figures and encourage people to read. He added: “Enthusiasts can share their reading experiences and recommendations in this studio.”

He referred to the Book Week programs and noted: “Across the province, more than 300 cultural programs will be held, including book reading sessions, literary criticism sessions, storytelling sessions, group readings, special competitions for children and teenagers, and unveiling of works related to Holy Defense and literature. ‘Fellow Traveler of Fire and Wind,’ ‘Unfinished Fever,’ and ‘Lady Moon’ are among the works that will be introduced this week.”

Mohammadi, recalling the slogan of Book and Library Week, announced as “Let’s Read for Iran,” emphasized: “All citizens of the country can become members of public libraries without paying membership fees, and each person can borrow one book title. This is possible by registering and becoming a member through online systems and providing a national ID card. After returning a book, the individual can borrow the next volume.”

Access of Library Members to Scientific Resources

The Director General of the Public Libraries Institution also spoke about the digital services of libraries: “Members have access to electronic resources, including over 125 million scientific articles in the ‘MegaPaper’ system. This service helps develop education and research and transforms libraries into a hub for open access to digital information.”

Mohammadi also emphasized the importance of book donation culture and said: “Donating a book is donating knowledge.” Following this slogan, “I invite citizens to donate their unused books to libraries so that resources can be made available to other enthusiasts, and public access to resources increases.”

He further pointed to the importance of symbolically promoting reading culture and suggested: “Carrying a book in daily activities can become a cultural symbol and impact the promotion of reading culture in families and society.”

The Director General of Public Libraries of Kermanshah Province spoke about changes in service hours and methods: “Thanks to volunteer librarians, currently 14 libraries in seven cities are also open on holidays and Thursdays, so that those who cannot visit during working days can use the services.” He added that library operating hours are set from 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM, and hours will be adjusted flexibly during the winter season.

Mohammadi clarified the educational role of libraries: “Libraries are not just places for borrowing books; they act as cultural centers. These centers host classes on Iranian-Islamic lifestyle, life skills courses, and artificial intelligence workshops for teenagers and families. Therefore, the approach of the library institution is family-centered, and promoting reading in children will pave the way for raising a responsible and aware generation.”

He concluded by emphasizing that “the library is the gateway to a knowledgeable society and can be a bridge between people, knowledge, and peace.” He added: “I request the media to refrain from publishing reports that indicate a decline in reading per capita in a way that causes concern, because the institution’s goal is to create hope, social vitality, and strengthen the cultural spirit of the people of Kermanshah.”