Over the past two weeks, Fugitive Books, a bookstore in Groningen, the Netherlands, has been the target of two violent incidents involving physical and verbal abuse. According to reports, the attacks were directly linked to its curation of books and the values it openly represents.  

These violent incidents represent yet another attack on booksellers' right to freedom of expression. Bookshops are a cornerstone of democratic societies, fostering democratic dialogue by providing spaces where diverse ideas, perspectives, and worldviews can be shared, challenged, and debated respectfully.   

The European and International Booksellers Federation (EIBF) joins its Dutch member, the Koninklijke Boekverkopersbond, in strongly condemning these acts of violence and expresses its solidarity with Fugitive Books.  

EIBF President, Fabian Paagman said: "Bookshops are essential spaces for democratic debate, where people can respectfully engage with diverse ideas and perspectives. Violence can never be a substitute for dialogue. The European and International Booksellers Federation vehemently condemns the attack on Fugitive Books and stands in full solidarity with the bookstore and its booksellers."  

Find the full statement attached below.

THEMA is more than just a classification system—it’s the shared language that unites the global book trade, enabling publishers, booksellers, and distributors to communicate clearly and efficiently about a book’s subject, theme, or genre, across languages and cultures. In this guest blog, Chris Saynor, a seasoned expert from EDItEUR (the international standards body behind THEMA and ONIX), shares his insights. With a career spanning bookselling at Waterstones, Shakespeare & Co, and W.H. Smith Paris, as well as metadata solutions, Chris brings a wealth of practical experience to the conversation. Read more below. 

This year I had the pleasure of attending my first RISE Bookselling conference in Verona. As a former bookseller, it was a joy to be surrounded by people who care deeply about books, readers, and the trade that connects them. The programme was rich, the conversations lively, and I even had the chance to speak on a panel introducing Thema — a standard that’s quietly becoming essential across the global book industry. 

Thema is an international, multilingual classification system designed for the book trade. In simple terms, it gives publishers a consistent way to describe what a book is about, so booksellers can quickly understand its subject, theme, or genre and shelve it accordingly. Think of it as a shared language that helps everyone in the supply chain communicate more clearly. 

Why Thema matters 

For booksellers, Thema is meant to make life easier. By assigning Thema codes, publishers can give you more detailed information about the content of their titles — helping you find the books you want to stock, the ones your customers are asking for, and even the ones they don’t yet know they want yet! 

How Thema works

Thema operates on two levels: 

1. A single code for the main concept 

This is the simplest level: one code that represents the core subject. For example, FRN is the code for Romance: sports. 

2. Multiple codes for richer detail 

Thema also supports a post‑coordinated approach, meaning publishers can add additional codes to describe specific elements of the story. This is where Thema becomes genuinely powerful for booksellers. 

If a customer has already devoured all your ice hockey romance titles (that is books coded FRN + STK)  you might suggest they try cricket romance, and you’d look for codes FRN + SFD. If they’re after romance featuring found families, that’s any FR* + 5PHG. And if someone wants a general novel set in a bookshop, you’d look for FBA + FXC. 

Thema is made up of subject categories and qualifiers, and the qualifiers are a very powerful tool for adding that extra level of detail. 

Even the most knowledgeable bookseller can’t know every book’s content,  but Thema can help you find these titles 

Growing adoption 

Not every publisher uses Thema yet, and not all use it well, but adoption is increasing and the quality of coding is improving.  

There are currently 28 full or partial translations available, and more are on the way. If your language isn’t yet covered and you’d like to help create a translation, please feel free to get in touch: chris@editeur.org. 

A tool worth asking about 

If you’re a bookseller, it’s worth asking your publishers, distributors, data providers, or bookshop system suppliers whether they’re using Thema, and if not, why not? It has the potential to be a powerful tool for discovering titles, guiding customers, and enriching your shelves with books you might otherwise miss.   

For more about Thema have a look at the resources on EDItEUR’s website: https://www.editeur.org/151/Thema/ 

The European & International Booksellers Federation (EIBF) has welcomed a new guidance from the Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC) Network that adopts a pragmatic approach to legacy stock under the Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition (ECGT) Directive.

A Win for Common Sense
For booksellers across Europe, the decision marks a significant victory. Unlike fast-moving consumer goods, books—especially backlist titles—often remain on shelves for years. Many independent bookshops maintain inventories of tens of thousands of titles, and a rigid enforcement of legacy stock rules could have led to mass returns, the destruction of perfectly good books, and substantial financial losses. Such outcomes would have directly contradicted the circular economy principles the Directive aims to promote.

CPC Network Recognizes Business Efforts
The CPC Network’s guidance acknowledges that disproportionate measures, such as product recalls or destruction, should be avoided when businesses have made reasonable efforts to comply with regulations. This recognition provides much-needed clarity and relief for booksellers navigating the new directive.

Private Enforcement Remains a Concern
However, EIBF cautions that one major issue persists: the risk of private enforcement. Even with public authorities taking a sensible approach, the threat of civil litigation in some Member States continues to create legal uncertainty. Without uniform interpretation across the EU, booksellers may still face pressure to pull books from shelves—despite the CPC’s clear intent to avoid such outcomes.

Commitment to Balanced Implementation
EIBF has reaffirmed its dedication to collaborating with EU institutions and national authorities to ensure the ECGT Directive is implemented in a way that safeguards consumers while protecting cultural diversity, independent bookshops, and the millions of books currently in circulation. The Federation emphasizes that the goal is to balance consumer protection with the preservation of Europe’s rich literary heritage.

For the fifth consecutive year, EIBF has published its International Bookselling Markets Report, providing a comprehensive overview of trends and developments across international bookselling markets.  

Combining quantitative markets data with qualitative insights gathered from booksellers’ associations and industry stakeholders, the report offers a unique insight into 20 national markets. It serves as an important tool for understanding the state of the sector, informing EIBF’s strategic work, and monitoring policy developments that affect booksellers.  

A challenging year for book sales 

The report shows that global book sales experienced a slight decline in 2024 compared to the previous year, with only six of the 22 analysed markets recording growth.  

However, the picture varies significantly by region: while many European markets remained stable, others, such as India, saw strong growth, highlighting the different dynamics shaping bookselling around the world. 

Digital reading continues to grow 

Digital formats remain one of the most significant trends identified in the report. E-books and audiobooks increased their share of sales in more than half of the surveyed markets, reflecting their growing place in readers’ habits.  

In France, digital book sales rose from €126 million to €131 million in 2024, while Sweden’s mature digital market continued to expand, with digital formats accounting to nearly one-third of total market value. At the same time, adoption rates differ considerably between countries, with digital books representing only a small share of sales in some markets, such as Romania.  

Audiobooks in particular continue to gain momentum, supported by the increasing importance of streaming platforms.  

Booksellers under economic and political pressure 

Beyond market performance, the report explores the wider challenges facing booksellers. Economic uncertainty, rising living costs, and ongoing geopolitical tensions have created additional pressure for businesses across many markets. 

The report also notes that booksellers are increasingly challenges linked to their broader cultural role. As facilitators of access to diverse ideas and literature, they can become targets of political pressure from both public institutions and parts of civil society. 

A valuable resource for the market 

By combining market statistics with on-the-ground perspectives from booksellers, the International Bookselling Markets Report provides a nuanced view of a sector undergoing significant change. The findings underline both the resilience of booksellers and the importance of understanding local realities within an increasingly interconnected global market. 

Two booksellers were arrested last Wednesday in Hong Kong on allegations of "selling seditious publications and receiving funds from foreign political organisations." Local reports indicate that one of those arrested is Leticia Wong, owner of Hunter Bookstore and a prominent advocate for freedom of expression.

As EIBF, we strongly condemn these arrests as a direct assault on the universal right to access information and ideas, and as part of an alarming pattern of escalating repression against independent voices and intellectual freedom in Hong Kong. We remain resolutely committed to defending the right to publish, sell, and access books without fear of censorship or persecution.

EIBF calls for the immediate release of the arrested booksellers and urges the international community to join us in condemning these actions and standing in solidarity with booksellers and publishers worldwide who face repression for carrying out their essential work.

The 8th edition of the Rencontres Nationales de la Librairie brought the French bookselling world to Rennes on 7–8 June. Over 1,250 professionals, including 750 booksellers, met at the Couvent des Jacobins for two days of workshops, roundtables, and debate. EIBF's Director Ewelina Oksiuta was among those attending in person.

The mood was energised but the context sobering. France has over 3,000 independent bookshops, yet many are now in serious financial difficulty and in 2025, for the first time, the Centre national du livre recorded more closures than openings. Sessions tackled the economic crisis facing the sector, shifting customer behaviour, AI's implications for booksellers, and threats to freedom of expression from growing market consolidation. France's Minister of Culture, Catherine Pegard, visited on the second day, hearing proposals including a new industry levy to redirect funds toward authors, independent publishers, and booksellers.

Congratulations to Syndicat de la Librairie Française and the whole organising team!

Earlier this month, EIBF Project and Research Assistant, Miriam Amina Fofana, attended the 5th edition of the World Expression Forum (WEXFO) in Lillehammer, Norway. Held under the theme “The Freedom to Disagree,” the forum brought together activists, policymakers, book sector professionals, journalists, academics, and advocates for freedom of expression from around the world for two days of insightful discussions, knowledge sharing, and collaboration.

The event provided a crucial platform to explore some of the most pressing challenges facing freedom of expression today, from the impact of digital technologies and misinformation to the protection of independent voices and democratic debate. Participants exchanged experiences and best practices while strengthening international networks dedicated to defending fundamental rights and freedoms.

At the European and International Booksellers Federation (EIBF), we firmly believe that:

“Freedom of expression and open, free public debate are the building blocks of healthy democracies. The contribution that bookshops bring to the public space is, therefore, indispensable. EIBF acknowledges that freedom of expression is a vulnerable right that must always be safeguarded and advocated for.”

As we continue to champion freedom of expression within the book sector, it was an honour to engage with so many dedicated individuals and organisations working tirelessly to uphold this essential right across the globe. The forum highlighted the crucial role that books, booksellers, publishers, and cultural institutions play in fostering informed public discourse and ensuring access to diverse perspectives.

Among the highlights of this year’s conference were:

• A compelling conversation between Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Maria Ressa, who discussed the societal impact of major technology companies, the challenges posed by digital platforms, and the need for effective and democratic regulation.
• The unveiling of the shortlist for the International Publishers Association (IPA) Prix Voltaire, which will celebrate its 20th edition in 2026. The award recognises publishers who have demonstrated exceptional courage in defending the freedom to publish.
• The presentation of the WEXFO Young Inspiration Award to Pema Wangmo Lama in recognition of her outstanding contribution to promoting freedom of expression during the nationwide protests in Nepal in autumn 2025.

Prime Minister of Norway, Jonas Gahr Støre, delivering the opening keynote at the 5th edition of WEXFO.

We thank the organisers of WEXFO for creating an important space for dialogue and reflection. The discussions and connections fostered in Lillehammer serve as a powerful reminder that defending freedom of expression requires ongoing cooperation, vigilance, and solidarity across borders and sectors.

The European and International Booksellers Federation (EIBF) Executive Committee recently returned from a few productive and eventful days in Stockholm, Sweden, where we joined forces with EURead for a series of enriching meetings, cultural explorations, and collaborative discussions. This visit not only deepened our partnership with EURead but also allowed us to immerse ourselves in Sweden’s vibrant literary landscape.

A Whirlwind of Meetings and Collaboration

Our time in Stockholm was packed with engaging sessions as part of the EURead Annual General Meeting (AGM). These meetings provided a valuable platform to align our strategies, share insights, and reinforce our shared commitment to promoting reading, literacy skills, and a strong reading culture across Europe. The discussions were both inspiring and action-oriented, setting the stage for future collaborations that will benefit booksellers, reading promotion organisations, and readers alike.

EURead General Assembly, photo credits Daan Beeke

Exploring Stockholm’s Bookshop Scene

In between the formal sessions, we were fortunate to explore Stockholm’s bookshop scene on foot, discovering some of the city’s most iconic literary hubs:

• Akademibokhandeln: A historic bookshop with a rich tradition, offering a wide selection of academic and general interest books. 
• Science Fiction-Bokhandeln: A haven for fans of science fiction, manga and fantasy, beautifully located in the heart of the Old Town.
• The English Bookshop: A cozy retreat for English-language literature lovers, providing a diverse range of titles and a warm, welcoming environment.

EIBF ExCom at the Science Fiction Bookshop

A Taste of Sweden’s Literary History

Our cultural immersion continued with a delightful dinner at Nedre Manilla, where we had the privilege of learning more about Sweden’s literary history. The evening was beautifully hosted by Bonniers Familjestiftelse (the Bonnier Family Foundation), offering us a glimpse into the country’s rich literary heritage and the enduring impact of its writers and publishers. The conversations were as enriching as the food, creating a memorable experience that highlighted the importance of preserving and celebrating literary traditions.

Dinner at Nedre Manilla

Honoring Dedication and Welcoming New Leadership

This visit also provided an opportunity to express our gratitude to Maria Hamrefors, former EIBF board member and treasurer, for her dedicated work and invaluable contributions during her tenure. Her commitment to our mission has left a lasting impact, and we are truly thankful for her efforts.

We were also delighted to welcome Sarah Dennis as our new treasurer. Sarah brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the role, and we are confident that her leadership will further strengthen our organization as we continue to advocate for the bookselling community.

Strengthening Partnerships

None of this would have been possible without the warm hospitality and expert organisation of our hosts: Svenska Bokhandlareföreningen (The Swedish Booksellers Association) and its new chair Karin Lundwall, and the Bonnier Family Foundation, represented by Lovisa Fhager Logothetis. Their generosity and attention to detail made our time in Stockholm not only productive but also truly enjoyable.

This visit reinforced the strong bonds between EIBF, EURead, and our Swedish partners. It was a pleasure to connect with colleagues, exchange ideas, and reaffirm our shared mission to support and promote the bookselling industry and a strong reading culture across Europe. Here’s to many more fruitful partnerships and literary adventures ahead!

The European Union Prize for Literature (EUPL) has once again shone a spotlight on the continent’s most promising literary voices. On 29 May 2026, the EUPL announced its 2026 laureate and two special mentions at the award ceremony in the innovative Museum of Modern Art in Warsaw, as part of the wider programming of the International Warsaw Book Fair.

EUPL is more than just an award—it’s a bridge. As Glenn Micallef, Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, put it:

“Your work embodies the richness of European creativity, culture, and unity. The EUPL celebrates great storytelling, while forging connections that transcend languages, borders, and cultures.”

This year’s laureate, Dora Kaprálová from Czechia, was selected from a shortlist of 14 outstanding writers, each representing a country participating in the 2026 edition: Armenia, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Estonia, Finland, France, Kosovo, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Sweden. The jury, composed of seven literary experts, also awarded two special mentions to Hélène Frédérick from France and Vladimir Vujović from Montenegro, recognizing their contributions to contemporary European fiction.

Promoting Literature Across Borders

The EUPL does more than honour individual talent—it fosters a pan-European literary community. By promoting the circulation of literature and encouraging readers to explore works beyond their national borders, the prize plays a vital role in amplifying diverse voices. All 14 shortlisted authors will continue to be promoted on a European stage, reaching wider and more international audiences.

A Collaborative Effort

The EUPL is organized by a consortium of associations, including the Federation of European Publishers (FEP) and the European and International Booksellers Federation (EIBF), with support from the Creative Europe Programme of the European Union. This collaboration underscores the EU’s commitment to nurturing literary talent and promoting cultural exchange.

About the Organizers

• FEP: Represents 30 national associations of publishers in Europe, advocating for the interests of European publishers since 1967.
• EIBF: Speaks on behalf of over 25,000 booksellers worldwide, supporting the global bookselling community.
• Creative Europe: Supports cultural and creative sectors, encouraging cooperation and exchanges among artists and organizations.

Looking Ahead

The EUPL 2026 laureate and special mentions will be celebrated for their ability to captivate readers and enrich Europe’s literary landscape. Their works, along with those of the other shortlisted authors, will continue to be promoted, ensuring that their stories reach audiences far and wide.

As we celebrate these rising stars, we’re reminded of the power of literature to inspire, connect, and transform. Congratulations to all the shortlisted authors: and here’s to the future of European storytelling! 

Our press kit from this year is also available for download.

From 5–7 May 2026, EIBF joined forces with paediatricians, neuroscientists, librarians, publishers, policymakers, and other stakeholders in reading promotion in Warsaw to address Europe’s pressing literacy and reading crisis. Over three intensive days, we contributed to two pivotal events: the Literacy for Democracy Conference and the EU Literacy Coalition Co-Creation Workshop, both underscoring the urgent need for cross-sector collaboration to foster a reading culture across the continent.

At the Literacy for Democracy Conference, hosted by the Universal Reading Foundation at the Palace of Commonwealth, experts like Dr. Dana Suskind and Dr. Stefania Manetti underscored reading as a biological necessity for brain development, while initiatives like Poland’s Book on Prescription and Sweden’s school library reforms demonstrated the power of systemic change. The message was clear: literacy is the bedrock of democracy, economic resilience, and mental well-being in the AI era.

The next two days at the EU Literacy Coalition Workshop, focused on co-creating the EU Literacy Coalition Memorandum. We tackled urgent questions: How can we improve literacy competences for learners and educators? How do we ensure AI complements—not replaces—human-centred reading? With one in four EU 15-year-olds struggling with basic texts (PISA 2022), the stakes couldn’t be higher. Partners like the Federation of European Publishers, EBLIDA and EURead, and many more shared scalable solutions.

For booksellers, the takeaway is clear: our role goes beyond selling books. We are custodians of literacy ecosystems, uniquely positioned to partner with paediatricians, librarians, and policymakers to embed reading into the fabric of society. Thank you to the Universal Reading Foundation for the inspiring conference and to the Directorate-General of Education, Youth, Sport and Culture (DG EAC) at the European Commission for convening this critical dialogue. The Memorandum’s launch in Brussels this September will mark the next step and we are keen to continue this critical work together with leading voices from the field.