Ceremony Honoring Librarians Held in Kerman
According to the correspondent of Iran’s Book News Agency (IBNA) in Kerman, with the start of the National Book Week of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Kerman province’s cultural atmosphere took on a fresh vibrancy, and a series of promotional programs and cultural ceremonies were implemented across various parts of the province. In this context, the official ceremony honoring librarians and book activists was held with the presence of provincial officials; a ritual that was, in a way, a re-examination of the librarians’ role in Kerman’s cultural dynamism.
The Status of Reading in the “Kerman Barfaraz” Document
Kerman’s Governor, in this ceremony, considered books and reading as one of the most effective pillars of culture, stating: “Culture is the foundation of any kind of development, and books play a pivotal role in shaping this culture.”
Mohammad Ali Talebi, referring to the fact that industrial development will not be sustainable without the enhancement of human capital, added: “Attention to education, basic literacy, and cognitive skills must begin in schools.”
Talebi, referring to the cultural approach of the “Kerman Barfaraz” document, stated: “Equitable access to books in deprived areas will be pursued through family book packages, reading clubs, and special student programs.”
He also emphasized the necessity of systematic cooperation between the Ministry of Education, universities, and public libraries, stressing: “Books can form the link for lifelong learning and help in re-identifying Kerman’s cultural identity.”
The head of the provincial Public Libraries Association, referring to the need for developing a creative economy, said: “The share of books and publishing in this sector must increase.”
He announced plans for launching a “Creative Publishing and Content Hub,” adding: “This initiative can create an appropriate link between books and the province’s development.”
Three Kerman Cities on Iran’s Book Capital List
The Director-General of Culture and Islamic Guidance of Kerman province also stated that three cities from the province participated in the ninth edition of Iran’s Book Capital festival, saying: “Sirjan was chosen as a ‘Book Enthusiast City,’ and Rabor and Fahraj as ‘Cities Under the Book’s Umbrella.'”
Hossein Eshaghi added: “Three commendation plaques signed by the Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance have been issued for the people of these cities and will be presented to their governors and local officials.”
The Secretary of Kerman Province’s Book Week Headquarters considered the coordination of cultural institutions as the key to the success of reading programs, stating: “This week, over 350 programs have been held across the province, from the center to its furthest points.”
He listed these programs as including literary gatherings, book launches, exhibitions, promotional activities, and research sessions, adding: “The three-day presence of Dr. Esmaeil Azar was also a valuable opportunity for the province.”
He also announced four significant cultural events outside of Book Week, saying: “The Provincial International Book Fair, Kerman Book of the Year Award, Festival of Book-Loving Villages and Nomads, and the Book Reading Clubs Cup are important provincial events this year.”
Librarians: Guardians of Human Thought
The Director-General of Kerman Province’s Public Libraries also stated at the ceremony: “Throughout Iran’s history, rulers who paid attention to written culture have always been remembered fondly.”
Ahmad Vafaei, referring to the existence of 134 active libraries in the province and the lending of over one million books in the past year, added: “These statistics demonstrate the dynamism of libraries and the valuable efforts of librarians.”
Iran: Land of Peace and Kindness
Esmaeil Azar, Professor of Persian Language and Literature, also spoke at the ceremony, referring to Iran’s cultural background: “Arthur Pope, the American Iranologist, considered Iran a ‘center of peace and kindness,’ and for this reason, he willed to be buried in Isfahan.”
Azar added: “His research works on Iranian art and culture are valuable treasures that should be introduced and made accessible in public libraries.”
According to IBNA, the ceremony commemorating Book, Librarian, and Reading Day was held on Wednesday, November 19th, coinciding with the National Book Week of the Islamic Republic of Iran. During this program, laureates in the field of books were honored, and parts of the national “Hero” event and the Supreme Leader’s endorsement of several works were also introduced.
The 33rd National Book Week, with the slogan “Let’s Read for Iran,” was celebrated across Kerman province from November 15th to 21st.
