The “Beijing International Book Fair” is being held virtually this year, starting on September 26th, where around 400,000 books will be showcased. Organizers stated in a press conference held the day before yesterday that it will be the first virtual fair since its establishment.
According to Xinhua News Agency, the “smart fair” utilizes modern technologies such as big data and artificial intelligence. It is expected to launch a new virtual platform that operates year-round to keep up with the latest developments in the book industry.
This year’s book fair features 1600 exhibitors from 71 countries and regions, coinciding with Saudi Arabia being chosen as the Guest of Honor for this year’s fair. Saudi Arabia presents about 120 titles in both Arabic and English languages, with a specific focus on literature, fiction, and educational materials.
The theme of this year’s book fair revolves around the transformation of books in the digital technology and artificial intelligence age, with researchers from various parts of the world participating. Seminars will highlight developments in digital publishing, the rise of e-books and audiobooks, the application of artificial intelligence in literary creativity, and the impact of digitization on the traditional book market. Analytical discussions will delve into how technology influences the book industry and attempt to explore ways to enhance the reading experience in the continually evolving digital age.
The fair focuses on knowledge exchange and civilization cooperation, with a variety of cultural activities organized alongside it, including an International Publishing Industry Forum and a Children’s Books Forum. Additionally, famous authors and scholars will be invited to engage with readers.
Since last year’s Beijing Book Fair, new uses of technology have been introduced that can enhance reading, writing, and publishing. Among these technologies are the fifth generation and holographic projection, as well as the use of augmented reality, mixed reality, and virtual reality in reading, in addition to digital reading technologies.
It is worth noting that the International Book Fair in Beijing, founded in 1986, is one of the world’s largest book fairs. It has also become one of the most important international book fairs in China and platforms for exchanging copyright.
