Saudi commission initiative aims to make literature ‘more accessible’

The first book-vending machine was recently activated at Riyadh North Railway Station. (Supplied)

Saudi Arabia’s Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission recently launched a “Books for Everyone” initiative to promote reading in society. (Supplied)

• First book-vending machine ready at Riyadh railway station
• Aim to promote literary works among nation’s young people

MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia’s Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission recently launched a “Books for Everyone” initiative to promote reading in society.
The initiative aims to make literature, particularly of the literary type, accessible in several ways, including through vending machines.
The first book-vending machine was activated at Riyadh North Railway Station recently in the presence of senior officials.
Mohammed Hasan Alwan, CEO of the commission, told Arab News that the initiative aims to make literary content more accessible, to offset media accessed online.
“We are trying to make knowledge products available through book-vending machines, to change the traditional view toward reading, especially for the new generation,” said Alwan.
The commission aims to expand the “Books for Everyone” initiative across the Kingdom.
He said the commission also plans to promote reading through book fairs and various forums, including the Tarjem initiative to support Arabic content.
Other initiatives include the Riyadh International Philosophy Conference, the Literary Partner Initiative, Digital Publishing Program, and the “Literature Everywhere” project.