World Book Day. Photos from freestocks on Unsplash
There World Book and Copyright Daycommonly known as World Book Day, is an annual celebration held on April 23. It was established by UNESCO in 1995 with the aim of promote reading, publication and protection of intellectual property through copyright. March 24, however, is National Day for the Promotion of Reading.
The idea of dedicating a day to books was proposed for the first time by Valencian writer Vicente Clavel Andrés in 1923, and Spain celebrated it for the first time in 1926. Later, UNESCO took this idea and made it a global celebration in 1995.
The date of April 23rd is symbolic as it marks theanniversary of death by three great authors: William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega.
World Book Day aims to promote reading and the love of books, as well as enhancing the contribution of authors to culture. The event is also an opportunity to reflect on role of copyright and intellectual property in the protection of the rights of authors and publishers. World Book Day also offers an opportunity to reflect on reading and its role in promoting knowledge, cultural diversity and tolerance.
During this day, numerous events are organized around the world. In Cataloniawith its capital Barcelona, is a deeply felt celebration which coincides with that of the patron saint St. George. During this day, since time immemorial, one of the most beautiful traditions linked to the world of reading and love has been held: in fact, couples exchange roses and booksto celebrate the feeling that unites them and the love of books.
Even in Italy there are numerous initiatives that revolve around books. Own starting April 23rdfor example, takes shape May of Booksa national initiative promoted by Center for Books and Reading, which is part of the Ministry of Culturewhich runs until May 31st and is dedicated to promote reading in all its forms. The aim is to encourage people of all ages to discover or rediscover the pleasure of reading, involving communities, schools, libraries, bookstores and cultural organizations in activities and events that revolve around books. You can discover the event closest to you by sifting through the thick pages program of the May of Books.
