Book Donation #13: Newmag and Amundi-Acba Asset Management Donate 500 Books to Sisian Libraries (photos)

The library of the Hamo Sahyan Urban Cultural Center in Sisian has never received such a large replenishment since its establishment. For the first time since Armenia’s independence, 500 books were added at once. Gayane Vardanyan, director of the cultural center, expressed confidence that these books would reach both schoolchildren and adult readers:

 “These books are light seeds that need to be sown in every family. They reflect a dedication to the education and cultural development of the people of Sisian and surrounding settlements. This is not just a day of donating books—it is a day of awakening. Libraries have received new life with these five hundred books.”

Artak Aleksanyan, head of Newmag Publishing House, presented the library support program and emphasized how modern content can help Sisian residents better understand the changing world:

“We brought around 200 titles. For instance, “Body Keeps the Score” addresses post-traumatic stress, helping war veterans and their families understand and manage their experiences. We also included Vahagn Dadrian’s landmark study, “Armenian Genocide”, which had never been translated into Armenian. After this book, debates about the genocide in academic circles largely ceased. Our selection also includes Christian literature and globally bestselling children’s fantasy books. I would like to thank Amundi-Acba Asset Management not only for this donation, but also for partnering with us to translate and publish Charles Aznavour’s complete literary heritage.”

At Sisian library, the 13th stop of the library replenishment program, Ani Hakobyan, Head of Newmag’s Literary Programs, explained the significance of the initiative:

“The 13th stop of our social initiative is Sisian, made possible by the support of Amundi-Acba Asset Management. Each of these five hundred books has the potential to save and change lives, strengthen communities, and contribute to a healthy society and a strong nation.”

Amundi-Acba Asset Management has been a reliable long-term partner of Newmag. Over a six-year collaboration, they have not only supported the translation of Charles Aznavour’s literary works but also adapted six of his songs into Armenian. Zarine Yeghiazaryan, Head of Marketing and Communications at Amundi-Acba, highlighted the importance of their partnership:

“We have been managing funded pension funds for over 10 years, and we understand the importance of long-term social impact. Through our corporate social responsibility program with Newmag, we have contributed to projects that bring modern literature to regional libraries. This initiative ensures that regional communities are not overlooked, and that contemporary literature reaches readers across Armenia.”

Artak Aleksanyan presented the donated books to librarians. The collection spans multiple genres, including children’s literature, with special guides for parents and adults to discuss the stories and lessons with young readers. Thanks to the support of Amundi-Acba Asset Management, 500 books will also be donated to community libraries in Sevan, expanding the reach of this important initiative.