During a visit to the Aabi cultural complex and bookstore in Shiraz, Ebrahim Heidari, noted, “There are differing metrics for evaluating the reading rate in the country. Based on several authorities, the average reading time is reported to be between 12 and 30 minutes.”

He cited research conducted in 2020 by the Research Center for Culture, Art and Communications, which indicated a reading average of 12 minutes, while the Statistical Center of Iran reported just nine minutes. Other sources have suggested a higher figure of up to 40 minutes.

Heidari also addressed the declining print runs of books, attributing this trend to a combination of economic, cultural, political, and technological factors.

“Despite facing challenges, books still have their admirers,” he stated, acknowledging that this sector, like others, has experienced reductions in engagement.

He emphasized that the economy influences culture, explaining that books are cultural commodities evaluated alongside other goods. “The reading rate is not confined solely to books,” Heidari added.

He highlighted the government’s approach to fostering a politically and culturally open environment, clarifying that this does not equate to a disregard for the arts. “The publishing and literary sectors require a space for freedom within the framework of the law,” he noted.

Heidari concluded by underscoring the government’s commitment to decentralizing cultural and artistic events and promoting public participation in these efforts.