“Books have the unique ability to entertain and to teach. They are at once a means of exploring realms beyond our personal experience through exposure to different authors, universes and cultures, and a means of accessing the deepest recesses of our inner selves” – Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
World Book Day is a celebration to promote the enjoyment of books and reading. Every April 23, celebrations take place around the world to raise awareness of the magical power of books – a link between the past and the future, a bridge between generations and cultures. On this occasion, UNESCO and the international organizations representing the three main sectors of the book industry – publishers, booksellers, and libraries.
Proclaimed by UNESCO’s General Conference in 1995, this symbolic date of world literature coincides with the passing of writers William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega. This day pays tribute to books and authors and promotes access to reading for as many people as possible. Transcending physical boundaries, the book represents one of the most beautiful inventions for sharing ideas and embodies an effective tool for fighting poverty and building sustainable peace.
This year's theme for World Book and Copyright Day, “Read Your Way,” puts the spotlight on fostering a love of reading for everyone. It's a call to action, encouraging individuals of all ages and backgrounds to discover the joy and enrichment that comes from exploring the written word, regardless of format or genre. A core objective is encouraging people, especially children and young adults, to discover the magic of books. Reading isn't just about acquiring knowledge; it sparks imagination, fuels creativity, and hones critical thinking skills. By celebrating books and authors, UNESCO underscores the power of literature to promote cultural diversity, multilingualism, and the exchange of ideas.
In essence, World Book and Copyright Day is a day to embrace the transformative power of books. They shape our minds, preserve cultural heritage, and ignite creativity. It's a day to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of authors and the importance of protecting their works through effective copyright mechanisms. By opening a book, we open a door to a world of knowledge, imagination, and enlightenment.
Reading has proven to have lots of benefits. Reading books is a great way to escape reality, expand your knowledge, and enhance your mental wellbeing. Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary grows. When you read every day you:
- Gain valuable knowledge
- Exercise your brain
- Improve your focus
- Improve your memory
- Enjoy entertainment
- Improve your ability to empathize
- Improve your communication skills
- Reduce stress
- Improve your mental health
- Live longer
