Cairo – The new edition of the Cairo International Book Fair 2026 features significant Libyan participation. This includes several universities and academic institutions. A selection of Libyan publishing houses is also present. This step reflects the growing Libyan cultural presence. It shows this presence in Arab and international forums.
Ali Jaber is the director of Dar Al-Jaber for Printing, Publishing, and Distribution. He told the Libyan News Agency that Libyan participation is a national and strategic imperative. He emphasized it is not a marginal cultural activity.
Jaber explained that the Cairo International Book Fair is the world’s second-largest cultural event. It is the largest in the Arab world. The fair annually attracts millions of visitors from various countries.
Jaber clarified that this participation helps market Libyan scientific and intellectual output. It extends the reach of Libyan writers and researchers to broader audiences. This positively impacts the ranking of Libyan universities. It also improves the impact factors for their research and publications.
He added that the fair offers an important opportunity. It allows for scientific partnerships and joint translation and printing agreements. Participants can also learn about the latest developments in the publishing industry. This is especially true in digital publishing and modern technologies.
He noted that investing in culture and knowledge is a long-term investment in people. The returns are not only moral. They also include indirect economic benefits. These come from opening new markets for Libyan books. They also stimulate the printing, distribution, and translation sectors.
Libyan participation this year is marked by the presence of the General Syndicate of Libyan Publishers. Several academic institutions are also attending. Tobruk University is among the foremost of these institutions. Additionally, several Libyan publishing houses are present. These include: Dar Al-Jaber, Dar Al-Fudail, Dar Al-Hussam, Dar Al-Ruwad, Dar Maktabat Tripoli Al-Alamiya, Dar Libya Al-Mustaqbal, Dar Maktabat Al-Shaab, Dar Jean, Dar Ouya, Dar Al-Walid, Dar Al-Zawiya, Dar Maktabat Al-Koun, and Dar Al-Farajani.
The Cairo International Book Fair 2026 is a pivotal cultural platform. It facilitates knowledge exchange and enhances cultural communication. Libya’s participation confirms its cultural presence. It highlights its role as a producer of thought and knowledge. This is significant despite ongoing challenges.