From 6 to 11 October, EIBF took part in the 78th edition of the Frankfurt Book Fair. Just a train ride away from Brussels, we travelled to neighbouring Germany and found ourselves immersed in the effervescent atmosphere of a city that, once a year, becomes the focal point for everyone orbiting the world of books. From publishers and authors to booksellers, policymakers and literary professionals, Frankfurt once again brought together the many voices shaping the book ecosystem.
The fair opened with its traditional ceremony, setting the tone for the days ahead, with the theme 'This changes everything'. Among the key topics addressed in the speeches were artificial intelligence and intellectual property, the relationship between literature and politics, and the growing concerns surrounding book bans and attacks on bookshops. These discussions highlighted the challenges facing the book sector today, while reaffirming the importance of protecting freedom of expression, supporting literary diversity and safeguarding access to books. Glen Micallef, European Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, emphasised in his speech the essential role of booksellers, underlining the value of human expertise, personal recommendations and meaningful connections with readers in a world increasingly shaped by algorithms
Czechia took centre stage this year as Country of Honour, which served as the perfect frame for the presentation, during one of the panels, of European Union Prize for Literature laureate Dora Kaprálová and her novel Mariborská hypnóza (Maribor Hypnosis). The Prize, part of the Creative Europe programme, was also represented at the event with a stand, offering an opportunity to meet and connect with book professionals throughout the week, as well as to share a drink and network in a more relaxed atmosphere during a lively reception.
Yet, beyond the celebration of literature, one message from Chairman of the FBF, Sebastian Guggolz's speech at the opening ceremony particularly resonated with us: the concern over declining reading skills and the implications this may have for democratic societies. Reading is not only a source of enjoyment and personal enrichment, but also fundamental to critical thinking, informed citizenship, and the ability to navigate an increasingly complex information landscape.
This is precisely where EIBF’s work comes in. On 8 October, during the Frankfurt Book Fair, we had the opportunity to present a new study developed through our RISE+ project, addressing the role of booksellers in promoting reading. Created in collaboration with EDUCULT and drawing on contributions from booksellers across more than 20 countries, the study brings together valuable insights, experiences and practical resources to help turn ideas into action.
The materials are designed to support different audiences, from booksellers looking for practical tools and inspiration to policymakers, exploring ways to strengthen reading initiatives and support the book sector.
Thank you to the Frankfurt Book Fair for inviting us this year and congratulations on another unforgettable edition!
‘Resilience, Innovation and Sustainability for the Enhancement of Bookselling’, or RISE Bookselling in short, is an EU co-funded programme run by EIBF. Since its launch in early 2022, RISE Bookselling has been working to create a real network of international and European booksellers, bringing them closer together while upscaling their resilience by providing them with key tools and insights they can put into practice in their shop.
Under the RISE Bookselling project, and among other multiple activities, EIBF has organised the RISE Bookselling Conference, the first-ever European and international conference to put booksellers at center-stage, giving them an opportunity to have a dedicated space in which to discuss their craft with like-minded peers.