Улаанбаатар
National Book Festival Begins
Society
Ulaanbaatar, September 13, 2024 /MONTSAME/. The 36th National Book Festival themed "Let's Read More," has kicked off today at Sukhbaatar Square, welcoming bibliophiles and enthusiasts.
This year, the National Book Festival initiated by the "Nomiin Soyolt Yertonts" NGO is being held under the auspices of President of Mongolia Khurelsukh Ukhnaa.
The President of Mongolia has reflected the "Book's Best Friend" Campaign in his policy and action program, aiming at supporting efforts to educate the Mongolian people by fostering a love of books.
In his opening remarks at the 36th National Book Festival, Zandanshatar Gombojav, Head of the Office of the President of Mongolia, emphasized the Festival's vital role in fostering a culture of reading among the Mongolian people, especially children and youth. The Head of the Office of the President of Mongolia highlighted how the Festival not only promotes reading culture but also sparks a passion for learning and personal growth. Writers, authors, and activists, Mr. Zandanshatar noted, serve as crucial guides and pioneers in this endeavor.
In addition to over 500 domestic writers and publishers, representatives from Russia, China, South Korea, and Poland are participating in the three-day National Book Festival.
During the Festival, writers and publishers present their works to the public through exhibitions, contests, and reader-writer meetings. The Festival also offers book launch ceremonies, thematic book introductions, and a range of cultural performances. These activities promote national literary culture and reading culture and support various literary initiatives.
Additionally, the winner of the "Mergen Nom" [Wise Book] Trophy, designed to encourage and support writers and publishers, will be announced. A 12-volume book on the history of Mongolia, published under the auspices of the President of Mongolia, will be unveiled.
By the Decree No. 158 of the President of Mongolia in 2012 on the Celebration of the National Book Festival and the Law on Public Holidays and Memorial Days, "National Script, Culture and Book Days" are celebrated throughout the country on Saturdays and Sundays of the third week of May and September of each year.
On average, over 240,000 people attend the spring and autumn National Book Festival.
