Sharjah, UNESCO's World Book Capital for 2019, has announced an ambitious lineup of book-related events across the emirate, including an outdoor opening ceremony April 23 that "will set the tone for the year, celebrating literary themes in a show that will unite the generations in a shared love of reading," according to organizers. Sharjah's theme as UNESCO World Book Capital is "Open books, open minds."
Signature annual events like the Sharjah International Book Fair, Sharjah Children's Reading Festival, Sharjah International Storytelling Festival, and Sharjah Light Festival will have enhanced programs that celebrate the World Book Capital.
Among other initiatives is the Reading Caravan, which will set up a Bedouin tent that will be transformed into a library wherever it goes. Mobile libraries carrying a wide selection of titles will visit Sharjah's public spaces.
A range of Arab and international novelists, poets and playwrights will participate in celebrations this year, under six guiding principles: Unifying Communities, Fostering Knowledge, Honoring Heritage, Empowering Children &Youth, Raising Awareness, and Developing Publishing Industries.
Bodour Al Qasimi, head of the advisory committee of Sharjah World Book Capital 2019, and v-p of the International Publishers Association, said that April 23 "will mark the beginning of a new chapter in Sharjah's pioneering achievements and efforts to host leading cultural events and initiatives locally, regionally and globally. The event will offer a gateway to all 200 nationalities residing in the UAE to explore various sources of knowledge and culture. It will also be a unique platform for intellectuals, authors, publishers and artists to showcase their creativity and contribute to highlighting the irreplaceable value of books in promoting dialogue and empathy among civilizations around the world."