IFLA strongly welcomes the announcement by UNESCO that Accra, Ghana, will hold the title of World Book Capital 2023. This represents a great opportunity to highlight the work of Ghana’s libraries in promoting books and reading throughout the population.

The World Book Capital programme is run by UNESCO in order to celebrate the work of cities around the world which are taking concerted and innovative steps to support both a strong book sector and reading culture.

Libraries clearly have an essential role in achieving both, and in particular work to ensure that literature and culture in general are accessible for all. This is not just a question of delivering on the human right to participate in cultural life, but essential for the sustainability of the book sector as a whole.

As a member of the Advisory Committee for the World Book Capital Programme, IFLA therefore warmly welcomes the announcement by the UNESCO Director General that Accra, Ghana, will hold the title from 23 April (World Book and Copyright Day) 2023.

This will be a powerful opportunity for Ghana’s libraries to demonstrate the contribution they are making to achieving the goals of the Programme. Throughout the pandemic, they have already demonstrated their ability to support access to books and culture, including online.

IFLA looks forwards to working with the organisers of Accra’s year as World Book Capital, as well as libraries in Ghana and our international partners. Through this, we will look ensure that this opportunity is seized to develop and demonstrate new good practices on promoting a strong and equitable reading culture.

IFLA Secretary General Gerald Leitner said:

“I want to congratulate Accra warmly on receiving the title of World Book Capital 2023. This is a fine opportunity to highlight and accelerate the great work Ghana’s libraries are already doing to support a strong reading society. I am convinced that the year will support the spread of high-impact new ideas and practices, throughout the country, Africa and the world, for building literate, informed and participatory societies.”

Read more on the UNESCO website.