Sharjah: A new market research project is going to be launched by the Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) to determine the most popular literary tastes in the country.
The EPA announced that it is also planning to launch an awareness campaign to discuss appropriate children’s literature.
The aim of the research project is to boost greater interest in reading by determining which topics and genres the public prefers, in order to produce more content that meets their literary passion and tastes. The awareness initiative, on the other hand, is aimed at parents, teachers and librarians to identify the criteria for selecting books for children.
The decision came following recommendations made by its members during a special interactive session recently organised at Sharjah’s Flag Island.
During the session, speakers from EPA explored ways to advance and support UAE publishing in keeping with EPA’s vision and reinforce the country’s standing in the industry worldwide. Members of the EPA debated a range of issues, including the reality of publishing in the country and challenges it faced.
Members expressed their appreciation of the EPA’s efforts under the presidency of Shaikha Bodoor Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, to protect and safeguard their rights, emphasising the EPA’s role as an umbrella under which they can exchange knowledge, experiences and expertise.
“Shaikha Bodoor has always stressed the need for open channels of communication with EPA’s members and the duty we have is to listen to them, understand their concerns and celebrate their successes,” said Ali Al Shaali, vice-president of the EPA, who moderated the session.
He added that it was essential during these sessions that the EPA embraces the mood of their members and gives support where it is most needed.
“Our publishers know that they have our full backing and as a facilitator, we often have a greater insight into the industry as a whole and can offer advice and guidance as well as introduce new and effective initiatives. We will make these meetings a regular fixture,” he said.
Mohammad Bin Dakheen, EPA’s treasurer, said the rapid growth being experienced by the UAE’s publishing industry means that “we must develop more creative and innovative ways to attract EPA members and ensure that they can use the association to contribute to their success.”
The meeting also announced a set of recommendations, most notably the setting up of a number of committees, including the Legal Committee, which is tasked with protecting publishers’ rights and settling disputes. Others include the Professional Development Committee and the Information and Public Relations Committee.
