By Shohreh Izadi March 15, 2021
TEHRAN, Iran More than a million books were sold by mail order during the Tehran International Book Fair, held online Jan. 20-29. The Iran Book News Agency reported that 1,732 Iranian publishers took part. Some 180 foreign publishers also participated, selling more than 20,000 books. Initially scheduled for six days, the unexpectedly high demand led organizers to extend it twice, for a total of 10 days in all.
Sponsored by the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance and other agencies, the online event was the first nationwide book fair here since the 33rd annual fair, set for May 2020 at the huge Mosalla mosque complex, was canceled due to COVID-19. Iranian publishers sold books at a 20% discount, and foreign publishers at 50%. Publishers prepared shipments, which were delivered by the post office at no cost.