Brisk sales recorded at book fair

Anuradha KODAGODA

The highest ever participation was recorded at this year's International Book Fair compared to the last eleven years. A record crowd is expected within the next four days, said the Secretary General, Sri Lanka Book Publishers Association, Upali Wanigasuriya.

"Up to last Tuesday night, 400,000 visitors were recorded at the International Book Fair and even with the rainy weather there were 100,000 visitors per day," he said.

Chairman, Sarasavi Publishers and the Treasurer, Sri Lanka Book Publishing Association, H.D. Premasiri said that compared with the last few years there is a huge increase in the numbers participating and also a positive increase in sales at this year's Book Exhibition. Due to the bad weather conditions, we expected a reduced participation. However, there was no reduction in the crowds while there was also a positive increase in book sales.

"We published more than 20 books especially targeting the Book Fair and there is a large number of new books published targeting the event. The Book Publishing Association has provided many events of cultural entertainment for participants such as, street dramas organized by the Tower Hall Foundation, book reading sessions, musical events and book launches, he said.