Since the Covid-19 pandemic situation is relatively tolerable as of now, the month-long Ekushey Book Fair is set to begin on February 1, 2022, as per tradition.
The Bangla Academy authorities have settled on a decision to continue the book fair up to February 28.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is expected to inaugurate the Amar Ekushey Book Fair, said Director of Bangla Academy and Member Secretary of Ekushey Book Fair Committee Jalal Uddin Ahmed.
Bangla Academy Director expected the fair to be held successfully.
He said all pragmatic steps were taken to organise an elaborate programme on the fair premises marking the Birth Centenary of Father of Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the Golden Jubilee of Bangladesh's Independence.
Jalal Uddin Ahmed also urged all concerned, including visitors, to maintain the proper health guidelines in book fair.
Necessary steps are being taken by the Bangla Academy to follow strict hygiene rules considering the 'Omicron Covid variant' so that the book-lovers can visit the fair safely.
"Last year, a total of 460 publishing houses participated in the book fair and they will take part in the book fair again," he continued, mentioning that the publishers will be able to pay the rent of their stalls at the fair through instalments.
"They will enjoy such opportunity for the first time," he said.
He further said that the January 5 deadline for paying stall rent has been extended.
Talking to BSS, Bangladesh Publisher and Book Sellers Association (BAPUS) Chief Advisor Osman Gani underscored the need for adopting a year-based comprehensive plan for the book fair as it is touted as a globally recognized event.
Osman Gani, also the publisher of Agamee Prakashani, lauded the affection of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina towards books and literature saying: "I have seen the sincerity of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina regarding books. I have published fifteen books of her."
He sought combined efforts of all concerned so that the publishers could get more facilities in the book fair.
