For the past few years, there has been a strong effort to get books to be a more important part of everyone’s life. One of the most successful ideas in recent years is World Book Night. Throughout one day, usually April 23rd, people from all over the world pass out free books to anyone and everyone. This April, many of us are taking to the streets to hand out some of our favorite novels. Are you wondering how this is possible?
Libraries and Bookstores are the Key
World Book Night would not be nearly as successful as it is if libraries and bookstores did not offer their support. Libraries and bookstores put in the effort to hand out packages of books to people who have signed up, making them crucial middlemen.
This is how World Book Night works: each year a number of books are selected by independent booksellers and libraries. When people sign up to become “book givers”, they receive a certain amount of these books prior to April 23rd. The incredible thing is that authors have to be willing to waive their royalties to participate in this – and they do! Publishers then print books with logos that show the new editions were meant specifically for World Book Night. The publisher shoulders all the costs and sends packages of the books out to participating bookstores and libraries.
Why It is Important
World Book Night is an invaluable way of getting people to read. Who is going to pass up a free book? Since these books are chosen by booksellers and librarians, they are age appropriate for just about everyone and they are the kinds of books that might just get a non-reader reading. Some major titles like 12 Years a Slave are participating in this year’s event.
Booksellers and librarians are increasing their efforts this year to get more books out there and they’re not the only ones doing so. This year’s World Book Night US division is being chaired by actress and comedian Amy Poehler. By lending her presence to this year’s event, she hopes that a younger demographic will also get involved in World Book Night. With her help, as well as the help of many authors and other celebrities, April 23rd will be a big night for books.
How You Can Help
If you are interested in participating in World Book Night, the best thing you can do is visit your local library or independent bookstore. Ask them about signing up as a “book giver” and they’ll make sure you have a box of books to pick up the week before April 23rd.
Tell your friends about this event or even try set up a group to hand books out around your neighborhood. Events like this strengthen our communities and have the added bonus of providing an invaluable service. Don’t wait too long – April is almost here. Go to your local bookstore or library or visit World Book Night’s official website for more details about how to sign up.