Delivering the opening remarks, Alanya Mayor’s Advisor Faruk Konukçu highlighted the importance of books in his personal life and in society, stating:
“My entire life has been spent among books and libraries. I have donated two fully stocked libraries; I am still someone who maintains a private library in approximately 3,000 libraries. Books have left a profound mark on my life. I have always viewed the relationship formed with books as a transformative force in social life. Wherever I go, I explain to children how meaningful it is to build their connection with books based on this understanding.
Since taking office, our team has undertaken significant initiatives aimed at revitalizing the city’s historical and cultural heritage. We believe that author-reader meetings leave a deep and lasting impact on children’s development. In this context, we are carrying out highly successful projects in collaboration with our District Directorate of National Education. We are involved in every stage of the organization, including transporting approximately 2,000 children from rural areas to the fairgrounds.
Additionally, through our Social Assistance Commission, we provide book gift cards to children in need; we are removing the economic barriers to their access to books through a social policy approach. On behalf of our Mayor, Mr. Osman Tarık Özçelik, I would like to thank all my colleagues who contributed to this event, and I hope it will be an enjoyable and productive fair for everyone.”
The Book Fair, which holds a significant place in Alanya’s cultural and artistic calendar, will host book, literature, and discussion events over the course of 10 days. Featuring booths from various publishing houses, the fair will bring thousands of works—ranging from literature to history, and from research books to children’s publications—to readers. Author meet-and-greets will constitute one of the fair’s most important segments. During the talks and book-signing events scheduled over the 10 days, authors will come together with readers from Alanya. Book lovers will have the opportunity to chat with their favorite authors and have their books signed. It was also noted that this year’s fair, organized under the theme “In the Shadow of an 800-Year-Old Heritage,” creates a framework that brings Alanya’s historical and cultural identity together with the world of books and literature.
On the fair’s first day, Alanya-based researcher, author, and retired teacher Haşim Yetkin met with his readers. During his well-attended talk, Yetkin discussed the topic “Alanya from the Past to the Present,” and after his presentation, he signed copies of his books for his readers.
The 8th Alanya Book Fair will be open to visitors until Sunday, October 4. The fairgrounds, set up behind the Old City Hall, will welcome book and literature enthusiasts.
Source: Alanya Belediyesi · View original news →
