Book fair opens: Day 1 turnout exceeds expectations
sharjah — The world-famous Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) officially opened on Wednesday, with the number of on-site visitors “exceeding expectations”, an official said.
This year’s SIBF is being carried out in a hybrid format, where cultural events and inspiring talks are held virtually and books exhibited in-person at Expo Centre Sharjah. Those who are coming to the venue should pre-book their fixed three-hour visit. A number of cultural ambassadors and diplomats were present on opening day.
Despite the challenges arising from the pandemic, the turnout of SIBF visitors in the first few hours exceeded expectations, said Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, chairman of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), which organises the SIBF.
Stringent Covid-19 safety measures were implemented and no violations were found among the visitors and exhibitors. Guests were all wearing masks and keeping a safe distance from others. They were also seen using the hand sanitisers that were readily available at the venue. Face masks were offered for free.
“The SBA has taken all preventive measures that meet the highest safety standards,” Al Ameri said, requesting the public to observe the protocols as they come into the Expo Centre.
“It all depends on public awareness. Our close cooperation will determine the success of not only SIBF but will establish our nation as an example of shared commitment to social responsibility.”
With the book fair, Sharjah intended to remind the world that reading is important, and it transcends distances, Al Ameri added. “The event’s theme underlines that our quest to obtain knowledge is never-ending and that books will always bring us together, irrespective of the circumstances.”
Held under the theme ‘The World Reads from Sharjah’, the book fair will be on till November 14. It hosts 1,024 publishers from 73 nations, with 80,000 new titles in 30 languages on display.
The event’s theme underlines that our quest to obtain knowledge is never-ending and that books will always bring us together, irrespective of the circumstances.” Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, chairman, Sharjah Book Authority