Book Donation: 500 New Books Donated to the “Gusan Ashot Cultural Center” Library in Goris with Support from VTB Bank-Armenia

Ani Arushanyan, head of the library department at the cultural center, described the donation as a significant and unprecedented event during the “Goris Days” celebrations:

“About a year ago, the publishing house launched the Book Donation initiative, replenishing regional libraries with high-quality Armenian-language literature. This program not only enriches library collections but also invests in the self-education and development of the regions.”

Gnel Nalbandyan, Editor-in-Chief of Newmag Publishing House, emphasized that the initiative brings modern, engaging Armenian literature to readers across the country:

“Each of these books is designed to provide aesthetic pleasure and knowledge. Library staff will ensure that readers have access to literature that informs, inspires, and educates. We have included works on Armenian history, social sciences, and modern scientific research. For example, the book Operation Zod explores how part of our homeland was saved a hundred years ago, offering lessons that remain relevant today. The book on Misak Manushyan recounts the Armenian resistance against fascism in France. We have also brought books by Yuval Harari, one of today’s most influential historians and philosophers, as well as modern detective fiction and world bestsellers, connecting local readers to global literature.”

With support from VTB Bank-Armenia, libraries in Gyumri and now Goris have received a total of 1,000 Newmag books. Nare Tadevosyan, Head of Marketing and Public Relations at VTB Bank-Armenia, highlighted the broader significance of the initiative:

“Projects that promote education and culture are essential, and financial institutions have a role in supporting them. Libraries are living organisms that must continually be nourished to grow. This donation enriches library collections and encourages more people to read. Our bank is proud to be part of this initiative.”

Gayane Atayan, head of the children’s department at the Goris community library, reflected on the rarity of such donations:

“Our libraries have not received such a large number of books in decades. Small donations or grants have helped, but they were not enough to satisfy readers’ demand. Libraries often feel neglected, but today we saw that there are people who value them. This initiative, which started in Alaverdi and reached Goris and Kapan, is truly commendable. Thousands of readers will be grateful.”

To mark Goris City Day, library staff also presented fascinating insights into the lives and works of two prominent Goris residents: Aksel Bakunts and photographer Gurgen Paronyan.