World Book and Copyright Day

World Book and Copyright Day History

World Book and Copyright Day emphasises the transformative power of books and reading. Promoted by UNESCO, the event advocates literacy, culture, and intellectual property rights. The purpose lies in respecting the hard work that goes into crafting literature and encouraging the sharing of stories and ideas. By promoting the respect of copyright and other measures for the protection of intellectual property, the event also aims to ensure that creators and publishers can continue providing quality work.

World Book and Copyright Day dates back to 1995, when it was established by UNESCO during their General Conference. Though a global affair, its significance to the UK is immense. The United Kingdom boasts centuries of rich literary history, birthing renowned authors like William Shakespeare and J.K. Rowling. The day holds immense relevance as an opportunity to revisit this heritage and highlight the importance of copyright in protecting the works of these and countless other authors. Moreover, the day underlines the UK's commitment to promoting literacy and access to literature for everyone.

In the UK, World Book and Copyright Day is marked with a range of events and activities. Schools, libraries, and bookshops host events such as book readings, author signings, and literary-themed discussions. Organisations run campaigns and initiatives to promote reading among children and adults alike. This annual celebration serves as a reminder of the UK's commitment to literary tradition and copyright protection. World Book and Copyright Day is celebrated on 23rd April, a day chosen in honour of several prominent authors — including Shakespeare — who were born or passed away on this date.

Facts about World Book and Copyright Day

• Each year, UNESCO chooses a World Book Capital. In 2024, the World Book Capital was Strasbourg, France.
  In 2023, the World Book Capital was Accra, Ghana, located in West Africa.
• UNESCO holds an event every year at their headquarters. Workshops for the young are conducted by booksellers, publishers and artists. The topics include illustration, bookbinding, typography, manga, and more.
• The current UK copyright law, established under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988, offers protection to authors for their lifetime and for 70 years following their death.
• Fair dealing' is a term used in UK copyright law to refer to the limited use of copyrighted material without the need to get permission from the copyright owners. It includes purposes such as criticism, review, news reporting, research, and private study.

In the News and Trending in the UK for World Book and Copyright Day

Top things to do in the UK for World Book and Copyright Day

• Dress your children in costumes related to their favorite books. Check out these great examples.
• Why not try a comic book? There are comic books for everyone, and they can be a good alternative for children who don't enjoy regular books. Get them started on comic books with characters they already like from the movies.
• Attend Author Readings and Panel Discussions: Many bookshops, libraries, and literary festivals host special guest authors for readings, signings, and panel discussions.
• Read a book to learn more about Books and Copyright in United Kingdom:
  1) Law of Copyright and the Internet: The 1996 WIPO Treaties, Their Interpretation and Implementation - by Gillian Davies
  2) Copinger and Skone James on Copyright - by Kevin Garnett, Gillian Davies, and Gwilym Harbottle