EPA connects readers with publications from 36 member publishing houses

SHARJAH: The Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) is actively participating in the 2023 Sharjah International Book Fair, the foremost literary forum in the Arab world taking place at Expo Centre Sharjah until November 12.

The EPA’s pavilion is showcasing an extensive array of the latest publications contributed by 36 member publishers, offering a diverse selection of 450 titles across various genres.

During its participation in the exhibition, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority under the theme ‘We Speak Book’, the Association is highlighting 7,000 books via its groundbreaking platform Menassah. The aim is to spread knowledge, nurture a passion for reading in the UAE and the broader region, amplify the circulation of publications from member publishers, bolster sales, and pave the way for new avenues in business development.

Emirati Publisher Grant

The EPA is holding a series of discussion sessions during the book fair targeting publishers and attendees. On November 2, an inaugural session provided insights into the ‘Emirati Publisher Grant’, which focuses on books specialising in the library field. This grant emerged from a collaborative agreement inked by the Emirates Publishers Association and the Emirates Libraries and Information Association in May of this year.

Arabic and Korean Young Adult Literature

Shedding light on literary offerings from South Korea, the fair’s guest of honour, the Association is actively engaged in a session titled ‘Exploring Arabic and Korean Young Adult Literature’ to highlight the world of Arab and Korean young adult literature. Participants include AlAnoud Ali, Projects Manager at EPA; Lina Chebaro, Copyright Manager at Thaqafa For Publishing And Distribution; South Korean author Hwang Seon-mi; and Beatrice YongIn Lin, literary agent for MatchWHALE in South Korea. They will delve into the experiences of Arab and Korean literature in enhancing the culture of reading among young people, addressing various aspects of this literary realm.

His Excellency Abdullah Al Kaabi, President of the Emirates Publishers Association Board, confirmed that the Association’s participation in the exhibition comes as part of a series of initiatives aimed at showcasing the development of the Emirati publishing sector. This endeavour aims to augment the presence of local publishers at various domestic and international exhibitions and cultural events, thus establishing fresh avenues for collaboration with prominent Arab and international publishers. Such interactions also promote discussions on potential partnerships for the exchange of copyrights and translations to and from Arabic.

He also emphasised the EPA’s commitment to participating in this significant cultural event on an annual basis, as it aligns with the broader cultural vision of the Emirate of Sharjah, initiated by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to solidify the emirate’s stature as a centre for cross-cultural exchange and dialogue among diverse global cultures.

From November 1 to 12, the 42nd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair is welcoming 108 Arab and global countries, represented by 2,033 publishers and exhibitors showcasing an impressive 1.5 million titles; this year’s exhibition also includes a diverse programme of 1,700 events designed to cater to all age groups and interests. Notably, the fair is celebrating South Korea as its guest of honour to highlight its rich knowledge and cultural landscape in the realms of literature, art, and technology.