ALGIERS—Publishers are celebrating the return of the Algiers International Book Fair in physical form after a two-year absence because of Covid-19. But they’re not happy about a decision to require visitors to show written proof of two Covid-19 vaccinations before they can enter.
The 25th Algiers International Book Fair will run from March 24 to April 1 under the slogan “The Book Is the Bridge of Memory.”
Organisers and Algerian authorities have taken several steps to help ensure its success. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune decided to exempt publishing houses from paying rental fees for suites, the Algerian Ministry of Culture and Arts said in a statement.
The fair also extended its run for a day, until April 1 instead of March 31, to give students who have examinations that week more time to attend.