HÀ NỘI — A Book Street opened yesterday on Lê Thạch Street, next to the Lý Thái Tổ Flower Garden, attracting many people during the Tết (Lunar New Year) holidays. 

Some 25 book stalls with eye-catching decorations had on display a wide variety of books from publishing houses and book companies, such as Kim Đồng Publishing House, Literature Publishing House and Nhã Nam Book House.

The Book Street has been organised by the Hà Nội Department of Information and Communications and aims to honour the reading culture at the start of the year. 

"My family visited the  Book Street to buy books and hang out on the occasion of Tết. I chose some interesting books," Đỗ Minh Yên from Cầu Giấy District said.

The Book Street is also a place for people to view special newspaper issues which are published on Tết by the capital’s press agencies. It includes a calligraphy art space, free calligraphy classes and a book cafe for readers.

"Book festivals on the occasion of Tết, such as the Book Street, are meaningful," Phạm Hải Phòng, a 10th grade student from Thăng Long High School, said.

"It helps people get to know more about new books and book houses. I bought a book which is meant for students like me. I think the Book Street during the Tết festival brings enjoyment to the people and helps them feel the vibe of the Lunar New Year".

This is the second time the Book Street has been organised during the Tết holidays, with a view to promoting the reading habit and creating more cultural spaces for citizens in Hà Nội during the Lunar New Year. 

Tràng An Book and Education Equipment Company, a domestic book company participating in the Book Street this year, has brought all the children books distributed by the company to the street.

"The Book Street not only gives joy to children, but also leads them to many interesting things," Mai Hoa, Tràng An’s director, said.

Many other activities on the sidelines, such as historical book colouring, painting, traditional art and spring poetry recitals, will also be held at the Book Street.

The Book Street will continue until February 5 (ninth day of the first Lunar month). — VNS