Books will be the centre of attention through the end of April as a string of events are set to celebrate the 2nd annual Vietnam Book Day (April 21).

Major activities will be concentrated between April 18 and 23.

A book street will run in Hanoi through April 17-21 and several workshops and talk shows are to be held, including events presenting national anniversary-themed books, such as the 40th Southern Liberation and National Reunification Day (April 30), 70 years of August Revolution (August 9) and National Day (September 2), among others.

Celebrations will take place in the Temple of Literature and libraries, schools, headquarters of state agencies and organisations across the nation.

April 21 was designated Vietnam Book Day by the Prime Minister.

Aimed to encourage reading in the community, the annual event looks to raise public awareness of books as not only a source of knowledge but also a way to develop one’s thinking and personality.

The event also presents a chance to appreciate the efforts of those involved in the development of books, such as collectors, writers, publishers and distributors.

The observance of the event will contribute to raising the responsibility of ministries, sectors and social organisations towards the promotion of reading in Vietnam.-VNA