Hundreds gather for the New York International Book Fair
Emily Parker :
Despite persistent drizzle across the city, the passion for literature lit up the heart of Queens on a recent Friday as the 34th New York International Book Fair officially opened at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center. With a crowd that defied the weather forecast and filled the venue with warmth and enthusiasm, the opening night was a vibrant celebration of books, culture, and community.
The evening’s formal inauguration began at 7 PM with a lively cultural program, filled with music and dance. The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured Rokeya Haider, legendary journalist of Bengali media; Dr. Ziauddin Ahmed, chairman of Muktadhara Foundation; and Sadat Hossain, a popular young author. Their presence underscored the significance of the fair not just as a literary event, but as a celebration of heritage and identity.
Organizers described the event as more than just a book fair—emphasizing its role as a bridge between generations, nations, and cultures. The energy in the room reflected that sentiment, as familiar faces from across the diaspora mingled with authors, publishers, and art lovers.
Adding to the evening’s prestige were several distinguished guests, including Phyllis Taylor, a lifelong ally of Bangladesh during the Liberation War, and Professor Rehman Sobhan, a globally respected economist and chairman of CPD. Also present were Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak, professor at Columbia University; political analyst Dr. Rounaq Jahan; and Bir Pratik recipient Captain Sitara Begum, whose presence served as a poignant reminder of Bangladesh’s resilience and history.
The fair, which runs through May 26, has attracted participation from notable publishers in Bangladesh, Canada, and the United States, transforming the venue into a mini literary bazaar. Renowned publishing houses such as Batighar, Anannya, Akash, Nalanda, Katha Prokash, and Riddhi Prokashon brought a treasure trove of new releases and timeless titles. The organizer Muktadhara’s own stall also drew consistent foot traffic throughout the evening.
In an age often lamented for its digital distractions, the turnout painted a different picture. Crowds packed the aisles between the bookstalls, engaging in animated conversations, browsing titles, and collecting signed copies from beloved authors. One participant noted that while people often say books are fading, events like this prove their continuing appeal.
The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, and the fairground felt less like a commercial event and more like a homecoming for many in the Bengali-speaking diaspora. For some, it was a place to discover new voices; for others, it was a nostalgic return to the stories and languages of their childhood.
The opening night also featured a rich cultural performance by local artists, weaving together music and dance that reflected both traditional and contemporary Bangladeshi artistry. Audience members applauded enthusiastically, many capturing the moment on their phones to share with friends and family around the world.
As the 34th edition of the New York International Book Fair continues, organizers are hopeful that the coming days will draw even more footfall and literary conversation. One attendee described the fair as more than a gathering—calling it a celebration of identity, memory, and future possibility.
With its compelling blend of literature, art, and community spirit, this year’s fair stands as a testament to the enduring power of books—and the people who love them.
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