Legacy of words: Irbid’s iconic book booth keeps turning pages

IRBID — In a quiet corner of downtown Irbid, a modest wooden booth brimming with books has stood as a silent witness to generations of readers, thinkers, and dreamers. Established in 1979, the iconic book booth—considered the oldest in Irbid according to the municipality—has become a cultural landmark, connecting the past with the present through the simple power of reading.

The story of the booth begins decades earlier with Ahmad Zereeni, better known among locals as “Abu Abed.” In the 1950s and 60s, Zereeni roamed the streets of Irbid—and sometimes even Jerusalem—selling newspapers and books by hand. His love of literature and tireless dedication eventually led him to set up a fixed book booth in Irbid’s centre.

In its early days, the booth imported titles from Syria and Lebanon, and gradually built a reputation as a reliable source for a wide range of literature. Today, it offers books in multiple languages and across countless genres, from history and science to poetry and contemporary fiction.

Zereeni’s son, Hussein, now manages the booth, as his father, now elderly, only visits occasionally.

“The booth was set on fire in 2014,” Hussein told The Jordan Times. “But that didn’t stop us from continuing the work we love. This place carries my father’s spirit—it’s his legacy, and I want to keep it alive.”

Over the years, the booth has become a magnet for readers of all kinds, including students, professors, writers, and political figures.

“A lot of political, academic, and cultural people used to visit the booth—and many still do,” Hussein said, gesturing toward a regular flow of visitors.

Despite the rise of online shopping and digital platforms, the booth retains a loyal following among readers who prefer the tangible experience of browsing shelves and chatting with the vendor.

“I love to come here even though I can buy books online,” said Jawad Shawabkeh, a regular customer. “But I enjoy the place and often get great recommendations from the owner.”

Hussein says he’s especially encouraged by the younger generation’s enthusiasm for reading.

“They still come,” he said with a smile. “These days, they’re especially into fantasy—Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings… it’s good to see.”

What started as one man’s travelling collection of paperbacks has become a symbol of Irbid’s cultural memory—a booth that continues, against all odds, to turn the page.