Culture minister concerned over bookstores' closure

While Yerevan is preparing to become the World Book Capital in 2012, bookstores are being massively shut down in the capital city.

Speaking to the Armenian Public TV channel yesterday, Minister of Culture Hasmik Poghosyan voiced her concerns over the issue.

"There is nothing conflicting about the state policies," she said. "I think individuals have to think seriously. There is also a second factor we have to consider: if such activity is not profitable, consumption is the issue. We ourselves do not buy books from bookstores. So why then are we surprised that they close down?"

The minister unveiled plans on opening around 50 bookselling units which, apart from offering books to customers, will also host different events.

"I do not share the viewpoint that a book has to be sold in book-stores only," she said, considering book sales in underground passages more natural and normal. "People are pressed for time nowadays, so books have to be sold where people are to help save time."