The Rector of Tbilisi State University, Academician Jaba Samushia opened the University Book Festival dedicated to the Librarian Day.

The festival featured an exhibition and sale of books from the University Publishing House at a discounted rate. Additionally, the event included presentations of new publications, such as a geographical atlas and translated economic textbooks. These publications serve as a significant educational resource for academic institutions and the general public.

“The University Book Festival was initiated by Tbilisi State University. This year, the festival will present about 500 books, including textbooks, published by Tbilisi State University over the past two years. Our professors have published textbooks and research papers that meet modern, world standards. TSU is a leader in Georgia in this regard. I believe that with the new project, which involves the creation of university textbooks, we will further facilitate the preparation and publication of new books,” said Rector Jaba Samushia.

The foundation for publishing university books in Georgia was laid at TSU. In 1919, the newly established university published Levan Kanchaveli’s auxiliary textbook on botany. In 1923, a printing house was established within the university. Since then, TSU Publishing House has distinguished itself as the most reliable publisher of printed products, encompassing both scientific and popular works.

During the event, the TSU Rector extended congratulations to the library staff on the occasion of Librarian Day and presented awards to two distinguished librarians: Liana Tsankashvili and Nazi Kapanadze were awarded University Medals.

“Librarian’s Professional Day has been commemorated in Georgia since 2003, and this event is celebrated every year at the university. This year, we opened our depositories and exhibited the first and oldest publications related to Tbilisi State University. From the very beginning, the university’s administration gave priority to the publication of scientific works, which laid the foundation for the subsequent publication of university books,” said Zurab Gaiparashvili, the head of the TSU Library.

Within the framework of the festival, various literary, creative and educational events were held with the aim of popularizing scientific and academic literature and fiction, sharing knowledge and art, and involving students and a wide spectrum of society in the event.

During the poetry evening, students presented a selection of poems from different generations published in the TSU literary almanac entitled “Pirveli Skhivi.” A workshop on the restoration of rare books was conducted by the staff of the TSU Library Restoration Department. This workshop was an interactive meeting on the topic of reviving books.

A personal exhibition of the self-taught artist, Avtandil (Nodar) Rekhviashvili was held within the framework of the festival. The exhibition featured a variety of artistic disciplines, including landscapes, portraits, and still life. In addition, a Georgian opera concert was held, featuring soloists from the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater.