HCM CITY The HCM City Pedestrian Book Street Company on Saturday launched a week-long programme to honour Vietnamese publishers and promote the reading habit among the community.

The event, with the theme “Sách – Nguồn Cảm Hứng Sống Đẹp” (Books – Inspiration for Better Life), is being held to mark the 67th anniversary of Việt Nam Publishing Industry, which falls on October 10.

The highlight of the event is an exhibition of photos and documents on the development of the publishing industry in Việt Nam and the world.

A showcase of 67 inspirational books for life and success is also being featured.

The organiser is seeking votes in a contest on ideas on encouraging the reading habit among young people.

The contest was launched by the Hồ Chí Minh Communist Youth Union of HCM City and the Book Street Company in April.

Twelve of 74 ideas submitted from students at universities and high schools, as well as workers, have been chosen as the finalists.

The winner of the contest will be announced this Saturday.   

More than 1,000 inspirational books from popular local publishers and distributors like First News, Thái Hà Book and Trẻ Publishing House are on display during the event.

The organisers are also seeking books and toys from the public. People who donate five books, except textbooks or reference books, or two toys will receive a VNĐ20,000 (US$0.9) voucher to buy books on Book Street.

The event will end on Sunday. The Pedestrian Book Street is located on Nguyễn Văn Bình Street in District 1 next to the historic downtown Post Office. — VNS