In a vibrant celebration of literature and knowledge, the 10th National Book Fair kicked off with great excitement at the Koh Pich Exhibition and Convention Center in Cambodia. The four-day event, boasting around 300 booths and showcasing a remarkable collection of over 100,000 books, has already become a focal point for book enthusiasts, writers, and curious minds from various walks of life.
The theme for this year’s National Book Fair, “Write with Passion, Read with Interests, and Capture Knowledge,” sets the tone for an inspiring and enriching experience. The decision to relocate the fair from the National Library to the expansive Koh Pich center, a significantly larger venue, reflects the surging popularity of books, reading, and writing in Cambodia.
Khlot Vibolla, representing the book fair committee and the director of the National Library, expressed her delight at the substantial growth of the event. With around 300 booths, an increase of nearly 100 exhibitors compared to the previous year, the fair has become a dynamic platform encompassing a diverse range of genres, from children’s literature to history, law, religion, art, fiction, and beyond.
Despite initial concerns about the relocation leading to a decrease in participation, Vibolla noted that the number of attendees exceeded expectations on the very first day. She particularly emphasized the significant presence of young people, expressing optimism that this trend would contribute to fostering a deeper appreciation for books among Cambodia’s youth.
Jan Taylor, a British Communication Consultant working in Cambodia, commended the growth of the fair over the years and the remarkable turnout on the opening day. She dispelled the notion that Cambodian people are not fond of reading, stating, “It is obvious that Cambodian people do like to read, and it is becoming a lot more popular.”
Chham Sopheap, Deputy Governor of Koh Kong province, observed the increased participation of young people, expressing the hope for more such book fairs, especially showcasing works from new writers. His encouraging words echoed the sentiment that events like these play a crucial role in promoting literature and encouraging a culture of reading.
Among the attendees was Heng Ratana, a third-year architecture student at Norton University, attending the book fair for the first time. Her enthusiasm reflected the evolving mindset among Cambodian youth, as she expressed her interest in self-development through reading. “I find it very important that we youths have to develop ourselves, so reading is part of that development,” she said.
In a press conference held on December 6 by the book fair committee, the overarching purpose of the fair was highlighted – to support the nation’s emerging publishing business, promote literature, and foster reading habits. Anticipating over 180,000 visitors, the event is poised to leave a lasting impact on Cambodia’s literary landscape.
As the 10th National Book Fair unfolds, it stands as a testament to the growing passion for books and knowledge in Cambodia, bringing together a diverse community of readers, writers, and enthusiasts eager to explore the boundless world within the pages of a book.
Source: Khmer Times
