Sofia library expands international collection
The National Library Sts Cyril and Methodius in Sofia has expanded its collection of international literary presence with the opening of Danish and Italian corners, the National Library and the Italian Embassy reported. With these, the total number of national literary corners now totals 39.
The Danish corner was inaugurated in the presence of Danish Ambassador Fleming Stender, CE Report quotes BTA.
The Director of the National Library, Kalina Ivanova, highlighted the ongoing collaboration with the Danish Embassy, which began with this year’s edition of Night of Literature. The corner includes works such as Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales, writings by Karen Blixen, crime novels by Jussi Adler-Olsen, and Kongeord by the Danish King, Frederik X . The opening was accompanied by the exhibition Wisdom and Skills, inspired by Danish thinker N. F. S. Grundtvig.
The Italian corner was inaugurated November 12 by Italian Ambassador Marcello Apicella and the Director of the Italian Cultural Institute in Sofia, Maria Mazza. A total of 113 volumes were donated, covering Italian literature, art, design, history, language learning, children’s literature, cookbooks, and travel guides. The collection also includes works presenting Bulgaria from an Italian perspective. The opening ceremony included performances of the national anthems of Italy and Bulgaria by the children’s choir of the National School of Culture in Gorna Banya. Ambassador Apicella explained that the participation of children in the ceremony is a tangible sign of the role of books as a means of communication not only between cultures but also between generations. The library Director thanked the Italian Embassy and the Italian Cultural Institute for the donation, highlighting the important contribution of Italian literature, starting from Dante Alighieri, to European culture and to the development of Slavic languages.
Both events were attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, the National Library, cultural institutions, students, and experts in literature.
