On April 23, city streets become a sea of books. Authors sign copies at bustling markets. Children’s eyes sparkle with new stories. Cities host lively open-air readings.
People all over the world celebrate the magic of words today. Bookstores are overflowing with eager readers. Libraries organize special hours for reading fairy tales. Everyone shares their favorite book on social media. It’s a day when stories unite us all.
World Book and Copyright Day is a special day dedicated to books, authors and the protection of intellectual property.
He notes the anniversary of the birth or death of notable writers, including William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes. People of all ages come together to appreciate the value of books and the enduring contributions of authors to cultural and social progress.
History of World Book Day and Copyright
The history of World Book and Copyright Day is quite fascinating and serves as a tribute to the power of books and the rights of authors.
This special day was first celebrated in 1922, when Vicente Clavel Andrés, a passionate publisher from Barcelona, Spain, proposed to celebrate a day dedicated to books in honor of the famous writer Miguel de Cervantes. The first celebration takes place on October 7, 1926, which coincides with Cervantes’ birthday. However, to mark the deaths of several literary giants, including Cervantes, William Shakespeare and the Inca Garcilaso de la Vega,
in 1995 UNESCO decided to celebrate April 23 as World Book and Copyright Day.
This day was chosen for its literary significance and to encourage everyone to explore the joy of reading. It also recognizes the authors’ contribution to cultural and social progress. The day is dedicated to the essence of reading, the importance of books and the rights of authors over their works.
World Book Day and Copyright includes various activities aimed at promoting reading and the cultural aspects of books. These activities range from book donations and reading challenges to public readings and events to raise awareness of copyright laws.
In some years, UNESCO awards a Prize for Children’s and Young People’s Literature in the Service of Tolerance. This further emphasizes the importance of the day to promote peace, tolerance and mutual understanding through literature.
UNESCO and international organizations from the book industry choose every year The book capital of the world. For 2024, it is Strasbourg. In this way, the global commitment to literacy and knowledge exchange is highlighted. The celebrations promote the love of literature by highlighting the role of books in the development of education, communication and cultural understanding.
In essence, World Book and Copyright Day is not only a celebration of books and authors, but also a reminder of the impact of literature on individual development. It serves as an opportunity for people to realize the transformative power of reading.
