Coronavirus in Russia: Red Square Book Fair Continued

Text by: Étienne Bouche

In Moscow, the Red Square book fair is being held this year under conditions adapted to the epidemiological context. A surprising edition since the municipality has maintained the organization of the event while the Muscovites are still officially confined.

Publicity

From our correspondent in Moscow,

To access the fair, visitors must present an electronic pass. On site, security conditions are rigorously observed. Protections for everyone, physical distance ensured in the stands and regular evacuation of the book stands. "  Every two hours, we disinfect surfaces in places where people are concentrated  ," says Vadim.

Time for visitors to have a coffee in a Red Square where they do not rush. Irina works for a small publisher of children's literature. Despite the low attendance and the visor that covers her face, she is delighted to participate: "  We have a small online store that has become more active, the big internet brands have continued to order, suddenly we have escaped bankruptcy, thank goodness… Nevertheless, we need exchanges, to see people's reactions, to speak directly with customers. For small houses, this is very important.  "

The maintenance of the fair created the surprise. For the federal agency which organizes it, it is a question of supporting the sector of the book but the authorities also seem eager to turn the page of the coronavirus. Citing a still uncertain health situation, a dozen publishing houses decided not to participate.

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