The National Center for Books and Reading will now be headed by journalist Arta Marku, after being under the direction of Esmeralda Bardhyli for six years. The change was announced by the Minister of Culture, Blendi Gonxhe, who thanked Bardhyli for her contribution over these years. In her response, Bardhyli stated that she closes this "chapter" with gratitude, adding that one of the main priorities while leading a new institution has been strengthening policies for books and reading, as an essential foundation for the country's cultural and social development. Wishing success to her successor, Bardhyli expressed confidence that the work begun will continue and deepen further, while her own commitment will persist in the field of culture.
Full response: After six years at the helm of the National Center for Books and Reading, I close with gratitude an important professional and personal journey. During these years, one of the main priorities while leading a new institution has been strengthening policies for books and reading, as an essential foundation for the country's cultural and social development. A book is not only a cultural product but a powerful instrument for education, critical thinking, and our collective identity. Together with a dedicated team and in collaboration with authors, publishers, translators, and other stakeholders in the field, we have worked to build and implement policies that support creativity, encourage reading, and make books more accessible to everyone. Significant steps have been taken toward consolidating a more sustainable book ecosystem in Albania. Of course, much remains to be done. Book policies require continuity, attention, and sustained institutional support to achieve their long-term impact on society. I depart with the conviction that the work begun will continue and deepen further, and with the belief that books and reading will always remain at the center of public attention. I thank the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sports, Blendi Gonxhe, for his trust, and I wholeheartedly wish success to the new director, Arta Marku, in advancing the challenges related to books in the country! My commitment in the field of culture will continue!