Books as a Portal: Discount Fair in Azerbaijan Spurs Community Engagement and Reading Culture

In Azerbaijan, the cost of books spans a broad spectrum, typically ranging from 5 to 25 AZN ($3 to $15). Yet, with the rising cost of living, many avid readers are finding it increasingly challenging to afford their favorite titles. As a result, second-hand books, e-books, and online international orders have become popular alternatives for those seeking affordable access to literature.

In response to this affordability crisis, local publishers and cultural organizations are stepping in with initiatives designed to bridge the gap. One such effort is the discounted book fair organized by Qanun Publishing House, which began on November 5. Promising a larger selection of discounted books than ever before, the event has drawn a diverse crowd of readers eager to stock their shelves without straining their wallets.

The fair has become more than just a shopping destination. It has transformed into a community event, bringing together families, friends, and even visitors from Azerbaijan’s far-flung regions. Attendees interviewed at the fair expressed enthusiasm about finally acquiring books they had previously deemed too expensive.

“There are books I’ve wanted for years but couldn’t afford,” said one visitor. “This fair made it possible for me to buy them at last.”

Interestingly, there has been a noticeable rise in the presence of children at these fairs, a trend that organizers say reflects growing interest in children’s literature. Parents are not only purchasing books for their young ones but are also fostering a culture of reading within their families.

The fair has also attracted professionals—teachers, librarians, and university staff—who are using the opportunity to enrich school and university libraries. These purchases, often funded from personal budgets, underscore the commitment of educators to inspire the next generation of readers.

Social media posts from Qanun Publishing House have highlighted heartwarming stories of visitors from across the country. Elnarə Ağaoğlu, an employee of the Azerbaijan Institute of Theology, purchased books for the Institute’s Reader’s Club. Meanwhile, a librarian from Nakhchivan traveled to acquire titles for the Nakhchivan Children’s Library, demonstrating the national reach of the initiative.

Visitors to the fair are not merely buying books; they are engaging with Azerbaijan’s literary community. Opportunities to meet local authors and interact with publishing representatives have added a social and educational dimension to the event. Discussions at the fair are often animated, with readers sharing recommendations and seeking advice from knowledgeable staff on selecting the perfect book.

Some attendees expressed a desire for even deeper discounts on works by local classics, pointing to a shared nostalgia and appreciation for Azerbaijan’s literary heritage. Organizers are hopeful that such feedback will guide future fairs in better catering to readers’ preferences.

While rising book prices remain a challenge, initiatives like this discounted book fair highlight the resilience of Azerbaijan’s literary culture. By bringing books within reach of a broader audience, these events do more than sell paper and ink; they inspire a love for reading, build connections among readers, and cultivate a sense of community.

For many, the fair is a reminder of the transformative power of literature, serving as both a window into the world and a mirror reflecting their own. And as readers return home with their literary treasures, they carry with them not just the stories on the pages, but the stories of the people they met and the conversations they shared.