Iran's already beleaguered publishing sector is entering its seventh virtual Tehran Book Fair this week in conditions that would have been difficult to imagine even a year ago.Physical damage to bookshops from US-Israeli strikes, a state-imposed Internet blackout approaching 80 days, a paper crisis deepened by wartime sanctions, and an economy grinding under the weight of conflict.The virtual expo is normally held concurrently with the Tehran International Book Fair, which would have held its 37th edition this week -- but the physical fair has been ruled out this year, with organizers citing the war and its fallout as the reason the event will be held exclusively online.The fair, which runs May 16-22 under the slogan "Read for Iran," is itself a measure of how much has changed.Ali Jafarabadi, CEO of Book City -- Iran's largest chain with nearly 100 branches nationwide -- says at least six of its Tehran locations were damaged or destroyed in US-Israeli strikes since the war began on February 28. In early March, one branch was completely destroyed and two others will require extensive reconstruction.
The organizers of this year's Tehran Virtual Book Fair hold a press conference on May 13.
