NNA - Minister of Culture, Dr. Ghassan Salamé, inaugurated the 2026 Children’s Book Fair under the title "Together We Spread the Love of Reading", at the headquarters of the National Library, featuring the latest children’s book publications for ages 5 to 15.

After touring the exhibition and reviewing books from a number of publishing houses participating in the event at the invitation of the Ministry of Culture, Minister Salamé chose to read a story to the children, encouraging them to consider books as their best companion.

Commenting on the importance of organizing this fair, Minister Salamé said:

"This initiative by the Ministry of Culture is based on a concern—namely, the declining level of reading among children and youth. That is why we launched this initiative: so that children can physically engage with books, become familiar with them, and grow accustomed to them. It also allows publishers to observe children’s reactions to what is being offered and to develop their production accordingly."

He continued to note that "this is the first initiative of the year, but the year will be full of initiatives encouraging reading and study. The next step will be to support libraries outside the capital by strengthening them and diversifying the books they offer to readers, and by encouraging reading. The goal remains the same: to promote reading and not leave it aside in favor of following content only on mobile phones, computers, or social media."

He added, "Children must not abandon reading, because they will lose the ability for intellectual concentration. Only reading helps children develop focus. We know that there is a kind of ailment affecting our children—and children around the world in general—due to modern technology, which is the loss of the ability to concentrate. This ability will only return through reading and study."

"This step is very encouraging, with the hope that it will become an annual cultural event," Salame reassured.