On the third day of the Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2022, the ground turned into a hive with booklovers.
The publishers are hopeful of making up the losses they had last year. The number of visitors and sales has been increasing gradually in this year's book fair.
The Bangla Academy grounds and Suhrawardy Udyan were alive with people of all ages, especially youths. The visitors were seen checking newly published books and taking photos of various attractive places. And many were seen buying books.
Dr Jalal Ahmed, Director of Bangla Academy and member secretary of Ekushey Book Fair Committee, said, “All arrangements have been made considering Covid-19 situation. Visitors are not allowed without masks. We also allow visitors after testing the temperature. There is no negligence from us. We will have to be stricter to ensure the safety of the people.” Dhaka University student Menhaz Lamisha Rahman said, “I have just visited the fair today for the first time this year but haven’t bought books yet. I will look more before buying.” According to the staff members at the various stalls and pavilion, the number of readers and visitors on Thursday is higher than the previous days. Book sales have also been increased.
Meanwhile, the publishers have expressed their determination to make up the loss of the last year.
Mazharul Islam, publisher of a publication, said, “We hope this year's fair will be lively. Book lovers will come to the fair. More books will be sold.”
The book fair will be open daily from 2pm to 9pm except holidays. No one will be able to enter the fair after 8 pm. On holidays, the book fair will be held from 11 am to 9 pm.
The book fair is being held on the premises of Bangla Academy and the historic Suhrawardy Udyan.
The fair consists of four entrances and three exits in the Suhrawardy Udyan section of the book fair for public entry and exit. On special days, arrangements will be made for writers, journalists, publishers and state honored citizens.
