FBReader only allows the installed path to be set at compile time. If you have it it any directory other than the one it was compiled for, the graphics will not load properly. It shouldn't prevent the program from running.
Try the first part (all but step 4) of the instructions here:
https://wiki.mobileread.com/wiki/ILia...e_Installation
Copy the fbreader directory to your /mnt/newspapers. Then run: "ln -s /mnt/free/newspapers/fbreader /usr/local"
You shouldn't have to export the LD_Library_path. Just set the display and run FBReader. Let me know what happens.