July 2010 

by Bruce Allan

The Bristol-Tbilisi Association (BTA) is presenting new and classic books about Tbilisi and Georgia to Bristol Central Library. These rare books include titles that look at Stalin's history, while others explore contemporary social issues. The BTA is providing two copies of each title so people can take the books home rather than just using them in the twinning reference section. 

Bristol's Lord Mayor, Colin Smith attended the presentation and there were readings from two of the books, as well as a performance by the Bristol- Georgian Choir. 

 The list of books donated by BTA to the Bristol Central Library.

Anyone attending the presentation was able to sample Georgian delicacies khachapuri and lobiani made by Dr. Nino Bendukidze, who lives in Bristol and is an BTA Executive Committee member

Alix Hughes, Bristol International Twinnings Association Co-ordinator, said: "This is a fascinating collection, pulled together painstakingly by my colleague Bruce Allan. Some of the titles are rare and out of print, so Bruce has spent hours on eBay. One or two of the new photojournalism books are stunning, as recently several top photographers were in Georgia. We would encourage everyone to drop by the Central Library and spend a few moments looking at these inspiring books about an area of the world with such a rich history and culture."

The BTA was also publicly launch its new website at th event: www.bristoltbilisi.com. The website gives information on BTA's cultural, educational, commercial and project development work.

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