UAEBBY builds connections with parties involved in children’s literature

SHARJAH: A delegation of the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) led by its President Marwa Al Aqroubi, is participating in the 39th International Conference of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) in Trieste, Italy, from August 30 to September 1, 2024.

The biennial conference, themed ‘Join the revolution! Giving every child good books,’ brings together individuals from around the world who are committed to ensuring that children and young people have access to high-quality literature.

The UAEBBY delegation includes members of the UAE Board’s Advisory Committee, its working team, along with a group of illustrators and authors specialising in children’s and young adult books. The delegation is eager to showcase the UAE’s efforts in children’s literature and share their innovative approaches to promoting reading among young audiences worldwide. They will also participate in discussions with the International Board on Books for Young People, exchanging insights with experts on the
most effective strategies to inspire more children to read.

Al Aqroubi stated that the participation aligns with the UAE’ vision of caring for children and their culture, facilitating their access to books, and building bridges of communication with different cultures. The aim is to unify the efforts of the IBBY members and children’s book experts to develop programmes and initiatives promoting reading among children and young people globally. Furthermore, the goal is to enhance the children’s book industry in the UAE and the Arab world through initiatives and projects implemented by the UAE Board on Books for Young People.

She mentioned that the conference is an essential international event focused on working together, sharing ideas, and creating programmes to encourage kids and young people all over the world to read. This year, The UAE Board is excited to share its experiences, learn from others in the field, and talk about how we can work together to make books more accessible for children and young pe
ople.

The conference is supported by the Italian Centre for Books and Reading of the Italian Ministry of Culture, the Friuli-Venezia Giulia Region, and the Municipality of Trieste. It will feature talks, workshops, and discussions on various topics, as well as exhibitions and the announcement of major awards, including the Hans Christian Andersen Awards and the IBBY Honour List.

Source: Emirates News Agency