The Muscat International Book Fair continues to attract authors from the region and some of the popular Arab names included, Saud al Sanousi, Buthaina al Issa, Issa Abdullah, signed books for the readers on Friday. “The book fair is only getting bigger and the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC), the venue for last two years, is adding to the charm by offering better facilities,” said Saud, one of the several volunteers who guides visitors.
He said the turnout on Friday was higher. “We are expecting schoolchildren in the coming days and overall the footfall figures should exceed that of the previous year,” said another volunteer.
“I have been bringing my children to this fair every year and they are thrilled to find a number of unheard book titles and some contests and activities are organised for them,” said Abdullah Hassani, a private sector employee.
He said, “The fair should focus more on participation of all schools and teachers in Oman through contests and prizes for students. It should be much more than selling books. I know there are a lot of educational activities planned alongside the fair, but there
should be more involvement of the student community.”
Dr Abdulmunim bin Mansour bin Said al Hasani, Minister of Information, met Mohammed Rashad, President of the Arab Publishers Union, and his delegation on the sidelines of fair. They discussed the activities of the book fair and the cooperation between the MIBF and the Union. There were many discussions, lectures and workshops where authors interacted with the readers.
Mwasalat is providing free return trips from Burj Al Sahwa bus station to Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre for the book lovers. Buses will be available every 30 minutes from 9:30 am to 10:30 pm.
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