Visitors to the first international book fair in Kirkuk found it to be lacking enthusiasm, describing it as "soulless" though it was important as a first experience in the city, but lacking proper marketing and other aspects.
The exhibition, which ran from September 25 to October 2, featured 60 publishing houses from nine countries, including seven Arab countries, Turkey, and Iran.
Rebaz Sabah, the supervisor of the exhibition's protocol team, stated that the 60 publishing houses showcased thousands of historical, social, political, religious, and cultural titles, as well as books for children.
One of the problems highlighted by publishing house owners was poor marketing through the media, posters, and advertising, with some reporting losses.
"On the opening day, there was a lack of visitors. This should have been addressed beforehand," said an owner of a printing house on the condition of anonymity.
Jalal Nazim, 42, an employee, commented, "It's a beautiful and unique event because such a thing has never happened in this city before."
"While I don't see the exhibition at a very high level, it is still a significant achievement and innovation for my city. I hope such activities will receive more attention," said Ayad Torhan, 19, a university student,
Kirkuk, October 1, 2025: Part of the Kirkuk International Book Fair but turnout was low. KirkukNow
Kirkuk Governor Rebwar Taha stated, "There were once five civilized provinces in Iraq, one of which was Kirkuk, but it deteriorated over time due to political conflicts. This exhibition is an important event and a good start for the province."
No Kurdish publishing houses participated in the exhibition, citing preparations for the International Book Fair in Sulaimaniya later this month as the reason.
At least 50 percent of the exhibitors at the Kirkuk exhibition reported losses due to low visitor numbers.
"The price discounts varied based on agreements with printing houses, with some offering 10 percent discounts and others 15 percent," Sabah explained.
It was noted that the majority of book seekers were Arabs, and the absence of Kurdish publishing houses may have contributed to this.
The northern oil-rich city of Kirkuk, located 238 kilometers north of Baghdad, is an ethnically mixed province with 1.7 million residents, including Kurds, Sunni and Shiite Arabs, and Turkmen. It has long been at the center of disputed territories between Baghdad and Erbil.
