Publishers and authors expressed satisfaction with the participation of readers and visitors following the prime minister's inauguration of the Amar Ekushey book fair on Thursday.
In the afternoon, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina toured the fairgrounds after inaugurating the fair at the Bangla Academy premises.
Readers and visitors were seen exploring the fair premises on the first day. Some were buying books, while others were touring around.
Several stalls were still undergoing theme-based alterations in the Suhrawardy Udyan premises.
Talking to the publishers, they were optimistic about this year's book fair.
Publisher Dr Mizanur Rahman said: “Overall, we are satisfied.”
A salesperson working at Kakali Publishing said: “Since it is the first day, people are browsing more than buying books. We hope people will buy a lot of books.”
Rifat Hasan, a visitor to the fair, said: “The book fair is our national festival. I visit here every year. I did not come to buy books today, but will buy books later.”