Synergy of Cultural Institutions Paves the Way for Books to Enter Social Life

According to the correspondent of Iran Book News Agency (IBNA) in Arak, Ali Izadi, at the first meeting of the headquarters for organizing the 33rd Book and Reading Week in Arak, stated: ‘We hope that by implementing significant programs, we can take an effective step in attracting various segments of society towards books and reading, and in increasing social solidarity around books.’

Referring to the free book donation plan on various topics in different urban areas, especially in underprivileged regions, he said: ‘This cultural movement can be an important step towards promoting and expanding the culture of reading.’

Izadi listed holding book exhibitions in various cities of the province, organizing book review and discussion sessions, book unveiling ceremonies, reading competitions, and honoring publishers, authors, writers, and activists in the field of books and reading as among the programs for this week.

The Director-General of Culture and Islamic Guidance of Markazi Province considered the unveiling of books endorsed by the Supreme Leader as the most important program of the Book and Reading Week, stating: ‘This program embodies respect for cultural heroes and re-examines the role of books in national narrative building.’

He emphasized: ‘The Leader’s endorsements on books about the Sacred Defense era and the biographies of shrine defenders can adorn the National Hero Week.’

Izadi added: ‘We hope that by implementing significant programs, we can play a role in attracting different segments of the population and turn the 33rd Book and Reading Week in Markazi Province into a lasting experience.’

He also evaluated the use of the capacities of cultural and artistic centers of mosques as important in expanding the culture of reading, noting: ‘The creation of 136 reading circles in 101 mosques across the province can be a valuable opportunity to attract various people to the culture of study.’

Emphasizing the identification and introduction of a model book-loving village, Izadi added: ‘Markazi Province is the cradle for nurturing elites, luminaries, and dignitaries in cultural, artistic, and scientific fields, and it can undoubtedly play an effective role at the national level in introducing a book-loving village.’

Subsequently, representatives of the member organizations of the provincial Book and Reading Week organizing committee elaborated on the programs, expressed their views, concerns, and presented implementation strategies.

Finally, it was decided that the Book and Reading Week ceremonies would be held cohesively and with serious determination, not only to save costs but also to turn this program into a model for other cultural activities.