World Book and Copyright Day

What Is World Book and Copyright Day?

Every year on April 23rd, the world observes "World Book and Copyright Day." It was established at UNESCO's General Conference in 1995 and has been observed since 1996. The day aims to promote reading, publishing, and the protection of copyright around the world. Also known simply as "World Book Day," it is marked by book-related events in many parts of the world.

Why April 23rd?

April 23rd is one of the symbolic dates in literary history.

• A date linked to literary giants: April 23 is regarded as the death date of the Spanish novelist Miguel de Cervantes (1616 — some say he died the day before and was buried on the 23rd), and as the death date and traditional birthday of the English playwright William Shakespeare. However, England and Spain used different calendars at the time, so the two did not actually die on the same day.
• From Sant Jordi's Day: In Catalonia, Spain, people exchange books and flowers on "Sant Jordi's Day," April 23. UNESCO designated the international day based on a proposal from Spain.

A Brief History of Copyright

The day's other theme is copyright. Protecting the rights of those who write books is the foundation that allows new works to keep being created.

• The first copyright law: The world's first modern copyright law is generally considered to be Britain's Statute of Anne, enacted in 1710. The spread of printing, which put large numbers of books into circulation, prompted the legislation.
• International rules: The Berne Convention, which protects copyright internationally, was concluded in 1886, and Japan joined in 1899.

Interesting Facts About World Book and Copyright Day

• World Book Capital: Starting with Madrid in 2001, UNESCO chooses one city each year as "World Book Capital," which promotes reading throughout the year.
• Children's Reading Day in Japan: Under the Act on Promotion of Children's Reading Activities, promulgated in 2001, April 23 is "Children's Reading Day" in Japan.
• The smell of old books: The distinctive smell of old books is said to come from substances such as vanillin, produced as components of the paper break down over time.
• The public domain: Once a work's copyright protection expires, it enters the "public domain" and can be used freely by anyone. In Japan, copyright generally lasts for 70 years after the author's death.
• The most-printed book: The Bible is said to be the most printed and distributed book in the world.

Ideas for Observing World Book and Copyright Day

• Reread a book that has influenced your life — or pick up foreign literature or a genre you don't usually read
• Visit a local library or bookstore and take your time browsing the shelves. You may find an unexpected book
• Take a little time to learn about copyright. When using images or text from the internet, remember that they are someone's work, and make a habit of citing your sources
• In the spirit of Sant Jordi's Day, give a book to a friend or family member

Reading Is a Conversation Across Time and Borders

April 23rd is a day to reflect on the value of the words people have left behind, and to think about the rights of those who create them. Opening a book lets you encounter the ideas of someone from a different era or country. When you feel lost in the new season, why not pick up a book?