GALLERY: Book sellers and authors promote literacy in Durban North
The Durban International Book Fair has established itself as a prominent platform for authors, publishers, and literary enthusiasts from around the world to come together and promote the liberating joy of reading.
TO celebrate National Book Week, held annually from September 5 to 11 every year, authors and booksellers held a book market at the Durban North Shopping Centre.
There were several different types of books on sale, sold either by the authors themselves or booksellers which are part of the Street Lit Made in Chatsworth / Booksellers of Mzansi programme.
The week also incorporated World Literacy Day on September 8 where organisers of The Durban International Book Fair announced the 2024 dates for the annual event which attracts hundreds of authors, publishers, illustrators and the like.
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#DIBF2024 will be held from 14 to 18 August 2024 at The Globe, Suncoast.
“This highly anticipated event promises to be a fiesta of literature, culture, and the joy of reading in Africa’s only UNESCO city of literature,” according to heritage publisher and festival director, Anivesh Singh.
“A devastating statistic is that South African children rank among the lowest in the world in reading with comprehension in spite of phenomenal spending in the State’s education budget. Illiteracy is a vicious cycle that must be broken,” added Singh.
The theme invites participants to explore the enchanting world of folklore, fairytales, and narratives that have shaped cultures across the globe. Whether it’s revisiting classic stories or creating new ones, the aim is to ignite the imagination of readers and emphasize the lasting influence of literature on our lives.
Authors, publishers, illustrators, and literary enthusiasts are encouraged to take part in the event by submitting their applications and proposals for panel discussions, book launches, workshops, and other related activities as it is an excellent opportunity for aspiring writers to showcase their work, network with industry professionals, and gain recognition on an international stage.
The first call for participants is now open, and submissions will be accepted until 8 December 2023. The Durban International Book Fair invites individuals, organisations, and publishers to contribute their expertise, stories, and perspectives to make #DIBF2024 an extraordinary event.
Email director@durbanbookfair.co.za for more details.
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