Good news for the region’s book lovers
Sharjah’s celebrated book fair is on.
By Helen Jones
The Sharjah International Book Fair will go ahead in November, with the safety of exhibitors and visitors paramount, say organisers. The region’s most important literary event will take place from November 4-14 at Sharjah’s Expo Centre. It’s welcome news for the publishing industry following high-profile cancellations earlier in the year—book fairs in London, Paris and Abu Dhabi fell victim to Covid-19. The 11-day festival is eagerly anticipated. It attracted more than two million visitors last year and exhibitor space for this year’s event has sold out.
“It is heartening to receive such strong industry support in these challenging times, which drives us to host an exceptional edition this year,” said Ahmed Al Ameri, chairman of Sharjah Book Authority (SBA). Programming will address the many challenges presented by the pandemic and will explore how publishers can collaborate to better navigate a fast-changing market. A list of celebrated guest authors will be revealed soon.
Can’t wait until November? SBA has launched a virtual book club, which hosts acclaimed authors in live, interactive book discussions. The sessions are held fortnightly and are free to attend.
More information at www.sibf.com and @sharjahbookauthority
