Celebrating books, authors, and the power of reading on April 23

Every year on April 23, the world comes together to celebrate World Book and Copyright Day, a global observance led by UNESCO that highlights the importance of books, reading, publishing, and the protection of creative work. It is a day that recognizes books not just as objects but as powerful bridges between cultures, generations, and ideas.

The day also promotes respect for authors’ rights through copyright protection. UNESCO officially established it in 1995 and it has since become a yearly event observed around the globe.

Deep literary symbolism influenced the choice of April 23 as the date. It marks the anniversary of the deaths (in 1616) of several major writers, including William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes, two giants of world literature. Because of this shared connection, UNESCO selected the date as a tribute to books and the authors who create them.

Why was it created?

UNESCO created this day in 1995 with a simple but powerful goal: to encourage reading, support publishing, and strengthen the protection of intellectual property through copyright laws.

By recognizing both creativity and legal protection, the observance aims to ensure that readers and industry stakeholders respect authors and publishers and compensate them fairly for their work. At the same time, it encourages everyone to access books and reinforces the idea that knowledge should be shared responsibly and widely.

Why is it important?

World Book and Copyright Day is more than a symbolic date. It plays an active role in promoting literacy, cultural understanding, and education worldwide. Books allow people to explore new perspectives, learn about different cultures, and develop empathy for others. UNESCO describes books as a “bridge between generations and across cultures,” showing how reading connects humanity beyond borders.

The day also reminds us that copyright protection is essential in sustaining creative industries. Without it, authors, illustrators, translators, and publishers would struggle to continue producing the works that enrich our lives. Copyright ensures that creativity is respected and that innovation continues to thrive.

A global celebration of reading

Around the world, celebrations include reading events, book fairs, school activities, and community programs that encourage people of all ages to discover or rediscover the joy of reading. UNESCO also designates a World Book Capital each year, a city chosen to promote books and literacy through local initiatives and international outreach. The World Book Capital 2026 is Rabat, Morocco.

These efforts help keep literature alive in an increasingly digital world, reminding us that reading is both timeless and transformative.

A day that inspires imagination

At its heart, World Book and Copyright Day is about imagination. Whether it’s a novel that transports readers to distant lands, a poem that captures emotion, or a nonfiction book that explains the world, reading expands what we know and who we can become.

On April 23, people everywhere are encouraged to open a book, share a story, or discover a new author. It is a reminder that in every page lies a journey and, in every story, a connection to someone, somewhere in the world.