On the evening of Thursday, November 14, President Masoud Pezeshkian made an unannounced visit to the Central Branch of BookCity in Tehran, accompanied by his children and grandchildren. The visit, coinciding with the start of Book Week in Iran, showcased the vibrant cultural ambiance of the iconic bookstore and underscored the government’s recognition of the pivotal role of cultural institutions in societal development.
During the visit, President Pezeshkian was warmly welcomed by Mehdi Firouzan, CEO of BookCity, Ali Jafarabadi, deputy CEO, and Pedram Alvandi, the manager of the central branch. Firouzan highlighted the expansive network of BooCity, now operating 90 branches across Tehran and other cities, all established through private investment without government subsidies. “BookCity is not just a bookstore; it is a platform for knowledge production, intellectual exchange, and fostering cultural dialogue. We aim to make books and cultural products accessible to everyone across Iran,” Firouzan noted.
Founded in 1995, BookCity has grown into a premier network of bookstores in Iran, blending traditional values with modern needs. It boasts over 80 branches nationwide, providing 30,000 square meters of inviting spaces where books, cultural goods, and community-building activities thrive. Beyond selling books, BookCity offers thoughtfully curated cultural products, spaces for dialogue, and a bridge between Iran’s rich literary heritage and the contemporary world.
Firouzan emphasized BookCity’s role in shaping Iran’s cultural landscape, supporting the publishing industry, and stimulating the economy of ideas. “Our mission transcends book sales; we strive to create a society that values reflection, creativity, and intellectual exchange,” he said.
President Pezeshkian commended BookCity’s contributions over the past two decades, praising its efforts in promoting literacy, critical thinking, and cultural engagement. He emphasized the importance of equipping young people with social and practical skills alongside academic knowledge, calling for a “multidimensional” approach to education. The president also expressed the government’s readiness to support cultural initiatives like BookCity, pledging to facilitate their growth and sustainability.
“I invite cultural organizations to present innovative educational and cultural proposals for national initiatives,” Pezeshkian remarked, hinting at potential discussions in the Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution.
The visit provided a unique opportunity for dialogue as the president mingled with visitors, engaged in conversations, and took commemorative photos. The autumn evening atmosphere at BookCity Central—bustling with citizens purchasing books and cultural products—captured the essence of Iran’s ongoing cultural revival.
BookCity embodies the historic role of books in Iranian culture—connecting generations, bridging global divides, and intertwining knowledge with urban life. By innovating traditional roles and fostering new cultural spaces, BookCity has become a cornerstone in the development of communities. As Iran celebrates Book Week, the surprise presidential visit reinforces the message that books remain integral to a thriving, reflective, and prosperous society.
Tags: Central BookCity, Firouzan, Jafarabadi, Pezashkian
