Over 2mil pack Sharjah book fair
Published on: Wednesday, November 14, 2018
SHARJAH: The estimated 2.23 million book and culture aficionados who thronged the 37th Sharjah International Book Fair that lasted from Nov 1-11 justified the vision of His Highness, Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, that books and culture are key to shaping the future of societies. Chairman of Sharjah Book Authority, Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, said the 1,800 events at the fair – the world's third
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largest – made it a grand success."His Highness wanted to establish his emirate as the brightest beacon of culture. His dream was realised by millions of visitors and book lovers who poured in throughout the 11 days of the fair, looking to immerse themselves in books, arts and entertainment," he said.
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He said it was not difficult to note that the love admiration and support the annual cultural spectacle receives yearly is due to the continuous encouragement and nurturing of His Highness. "To see a motley crowd of school and university students, parents, teachers and professionals, homemakers from all possible cultural backgrounds and all walks of life steadily stream in through the book fair's gates, was a sight to behold. "There was so much we learned from our patrons – still inquiring about topics we thought weren't topical in this day and age, and showing equal interest in both old things and new," he said. His Highness wanted to see young readers queue up to have their books signed by their favourite authors.
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"The endless lines of visitors waiting to attend a panel discussion, people leaving the fair with big carts packed with books, are all proof that our pursuit for knowledge, wisdom, and humanity are qualities inherent in humankind. "His Highness does not spare an effort to keep us grounded. His emphasis is always in appreciating and encouraging the continuous work and unfailing dedication everyone involved has made to bring it to the stature we enjoy today," said Ahmed. Ahmed said this is what Sultan wants for the Arab nation and the entire world. To see Sharjah become an international library and a cultural destination sought by intellectuals, brilliant minds and creative people. Like a compass that guides people in the right direction, especially those championing development, culture, language and history. Above all, he wants Sharjah to be a hub for all those who welcome friendship and unity. Ahmed said the efforts of the authors, publishers and intellectuals to bring knowledge from all corners of the globe to every household in the UAE and Arab world was much appreciated. And also readers for giving authors a reason to write and culture a reason to thrive," he added.The 37th edition of SIBF was home to 1,874 publishers from 77 countries offering 20 million books reflecting 1.6 million individual titles, of which 80,000 were seen at the fair for the first time. Japan was the Guest of Honour with various events while Azzeldine Mihoubi, Algeria's Minister of Culture, was named this edition's Cultural Personality of the Year.This year's fair also saw the fifth edition of the annual SIBF/ALA Library Conference organised in partnership between the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) and the American Library Association (ALA). Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.
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