2023Bologna Children’s Book Fair closed on March 9, 2023, which began on March 6 at BolognaFiere together with the spin-offs BolognaBookPlus and Bologna Licensing Trade Fair/Kids. An edition that once again confirms that Bologna is to all intents and purposes the world capital of copyright and the exchange of editorial rights.
In Bologna from all over the world
During the four days, more than 1,450 exhibitors crowded the exhibition space, arriving from about 90 countries and regions of the world. There were 28894 professional visitors (+35% compared to 2022 and confirmation of the pre-pandemic 2019 number) who took part in 325 live events (+25% compared to 2019) and over 260 underground events organized by exhibitors at the fair and in the city.
A result that follows and reflects the work carried out by the 2023 Bologna Children’s Book Fair aimed at the international scene through an activity that was divided into tours and initiatives throughout the year.
The fair celebrated its first sixty years together with the world community of children’s books and illustrations.
Among the guests who blew out the 60 candles were many personalities from the publishing industry for both Italians, such as Susanna Tamaro, and foreigners, such as Albertine Zullo, just to name a few.
Digital and social networks are also doing well
Important results also for the 2023 Bologna Children’s Book Fair digital platform https://www.bolognachildrensbookfair.com. There were over 2 million views on the site, 200,000 unique users (60% from abroad), over 60,000 registered users of online services. Unique connected users grew by 21% compared to 2022, the result of the expansion of the offer of contents and services generated through digital channels in the latest online and in-person editions.
The Facebook and Instagram communities respectively reached 80,000 (+23%) and 90,000 (+23%) followers, LinkedIn 10,000 followers (+41%).
Over 50 video productions (including full and direct recordings) made for online and on demand use. In just 2 months, over 1,000 professionals took part in masterclasses, conferences, training courses and special initiatives organized on the Open Up – The BCBF Skill Box online platform, active all year round.
Eight hundred illustrators from 70 countries and regions of the world presented their works on the virtual Wall of Illustrators, re-proposed at the 2023 Bologna Children’s Book Fair through screens positioned in the heart of the event.
A success that saw the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and ICE – Agency for the promotion abroad and the internationalization of Italian companies – at the forefront.
Meanwhile, the organizers have announced the next date – from 8 to 11 April 2024 – which will see Slovenia as the Guest of Honor.