Tehran's International Book Fair Brings Little Excitement

The 34th Tehran International Book Fair is underway until May 30.

The annual event is traditionally a celebration of literature and a meeting ground for publishers, authors and avid readers, but this year's edition is marred by many challenges.

A number of publishers and parts of the public have chosen to stay away amid concerns over the fair's perceived alignment with government interests. 

Adding to the difficulties, the fair is being held against the backdrop of ballooning inflation, which has increased the cost of paper and imposed further financial constraints on many book enthusiasts and readers.

Hamid, an observer at the fair, pointed out that the majority of visitors seemed to be mere spectators. 

"Their hands remained empty, underscoring the somber reality of reduced purchase power and limited access to the literary works showcased at the fair," he said.