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250,000 Book Titles Offered on Virtual Platforms
1404/02/19-16:13
According to the Secretary of Digital Publishers at the 36th Tehran International Book Fair, 250,000 book titles have been made available to readers in this section.
Ali Mohammadpour, Secretary of Digital Publishers, told the news correspondent of the 36th Tehran International Book Fair that recent legal reforms and the new government’s policies have created an opportunity for digital publishers to have a strong presence at this year’s event.
He added that this year, 17 digital book publishers are participating in a dedicated section of the fair. These large and mid-sized publishers are offering a total of 250,000 book titles through their online platforms, aiming to expand access to reading resources and strengthen the digital publishing industry.
Presence of 13 Companies in the New Publishing Technologies Hall
Mohammadpour also noted that alongside digital publishers, 13 companies active in innovative publishing technologies are participating in the fair. These companies provide tools and technologies that can assist publishers in various processes, including artificial intelligence and book sales services.
The Idea Behind Establishing the Digital Book Section
Regarding the idea of featuring digital book publishers at the fair, Mohammadpour explained that after years of effort to legitimize this field, the idea has now come to fruition. Digital publishers have long sought legal recognition and the right to participate in the book fair but faced resistance from traditional publishing sectors and legal frameworks. Recent changes in regulations and policies have now allowed for their prominent participation.
Recognition of E-Publishing as a Legal Industry
He emphasized that electronic publishing has now been officially recognized by the Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution and has entered the legal structure of the country. This development has supported the publishing industry, especially benefiting youth and teens who prefer digital products by giving them better access to new resources.
Need to Strengthen the Legal E-Book Market Against Illegal Distribution
Mohammadpour stated that the electronic book market in Iran is rapidly growing, with many Iranians utilizing it. However, the illegal market has also expanded, with over 70% of digital book consumers accessing content through unauthorized channels. This situation poses a serious threat to the country’s official publishing industry, making the development of a legal e-book market critical.
Combating the Illegal Market and Its Threats to Print Publishing
In conclusion, Mohammadpour stressed that the illegal digital publishing market negatively impacts not only the e-book industry but also the print publishing sector. Unauthorized distribution of academic and scientific books has led to a drop in sales and challenges for print publishers. Supporting legal digital publishers and strengthening the formal e-book market are essential steps in resisting these threats and supporting Iran’s publishing industry.
The 36th Tehran International Book Fair is being held from May 6 to May 16, 2025, at Imam Khomeini Mosalla under the theme "Read for Iran." Alongside the in-person event, a virtual version of the fair is also available at book.icfi.ir, allowing readers to purchase books online.
