Media Release: Alberta’s Book Publishers Celebrate “World Book Day”
Posted .
Alberta – On World Book and Copyright Day, the Book Publishers Association of Alberta (BPAA) stands together with the book industry in Canada and around the world in calling upon governments to continue to provide economic relief during the COVID-19 crisis.
It is vital that we recognize the significant benefits the industry affords our province, the numerous jobs it creates, and its contribution to Alberta’s GDP. The process of delivering books from author to reader requires the joint effort of many individuals, with key players including but not limited to publishers, authors, editors, designers, illustrators, agents, printers, distributors, booksellers and librarians. The industry is devoted to providing access to reading materials but needs assistance in order to continue to do so.
The industry has demonstrated remarkable adaptability during the pandemic by finding creative new ways to serve readers. Booksellers are adopting new business models to accommodate for in-store closures. Publishers have rapidly shifted their focus towards eBooks and online-marketing. Additionally, digital content made available by publishers is providing educators with options as they restructure their curriculums for online delivery.
The BPAA joins with the Association of Canadian Publishers in calling on government to repair Canada’s broken copyright framework, so that publishers are well-positioned to bring Canadian writing to audiences across the country and around the world in the future.
Today, on World Book and Copyright Day, we remind ourselves that books are fundamental to the creation of culture and community, during both times of calm and times of crisis. It is by sharing stories and knowledge that we bridge gaps between peoples and cultivate a more tolerant society. In a world that feels increasingly chaotic and isolated, we can rely on books as a source of comfort.
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For more information, contact:
Kieran Leblanc, Executive Director
c. 780.918.8375