Every page turned, every story lived, and every idea shared is a step toward a more informed, imaginative, and inclusive world. World Book and Copyright Day, observed every year on April 23, is not just about celebrating books—it’s about celebrating minds, cultures, and the freedom to read and create.
This global observance honors authors, publishers, libraries, and readers while emphasizing the importance of intellectual property rights.
In 2025, let’s turn another page in the journey toward literacy, creativity, and access to knowledge for all.
History of World Book and Copyright Day
| Year | Event |
| 1995 | UNESCO officially declared April 23 as World Book and Copyright Day. |
| 1616 | The day marks the death of literary giants: William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega. |
| Ongoing | Celebrated globally to promote reading, publishing, and protection of intellectual property. |
The idea originated in Spain, where April 23 is a symbolic date in world literature. UNESCO chose this day to pay homage to authors and encourage everyone—especially youth—to discover the joy of reading.
Importance of the Day
- Promotes Literacy: Books play a crucial role in education, shaping young minds and building knowledge.
- Protects Authors’ Rights: Emphasizes the importance of copyright laws in safeguarding intellectual property.
- Celebrates Diversity: Books reflect various cultures, voices, and experiences from around the world.
- Empowers the Marginalized: Access to books can bridge educational gaps and empower underrepresented communities.
Why Is It Celebrated?
World Book and Copyright Day is a call to action:
- To promote reading habits among all age groups.
- To protect creative rights of authors and publishers.
- To support access to knowledge, especially in underserved regions.
- To inspire cultural exchange through literature.
Theme of World Book and Copyright Day 2025
Theme: “Turning Pages, Turning Lives”
This year’s theme reflects how books can change lives, one reader at a time. Whether it’s a young child reading their first story or an adult finding solace in poetry, turning pages is symbolic of growth, understanding, and transformation.
Significance of the Day
| Domain | Significance |
| Education | Encourages lifelong learning and early childhood reading habits. |
| Culture | Preserves traditions and promotes intercultural understanding. |
| Economy | Boosts publishing industries and supports creative professionals. |
| Legal | Emphasizes the need for copyright protections in the digital era. |
Inspiring Quotes on Books and Reading
- “A room without books is like a body without a soul.” – Marcus Tullius Cicero
- “Books are a uniquely portable magic.” – Stephen King
- “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” – Frederick Douglass
- “There is no friend as loyal as a book.” – Ernest Hemingway
- “Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are.” – Mason Cooley
- “Books are the mirrors of the soul.” – Virginia Woolf
- “The man who does not read has no advantage over the man who cannot read.” – Mark Twain
- “So many books, so little time.” – Frank Zappa
- “Reading is essential for those who seek to rise above the ordinary.” – Jim Rohn
- “Words can be like X-rays if you use them properly – they’ll go through anything.” – Aldous Huxley
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is World Book and Copyright Day 2025?
Answer: It will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.
2. Who started World Book Day?
Answer: UNESCO started the observance in 1995 to promote reading and protect copyrights.
3. Why April 23?
Answer: This day marks the death anniversaries of famous writers like Shakespeare and Cervantes.
4. Is this day different from World Book Day celebrated in the UK?
Answer: Yes. The UK celebrates World Book Day in March, while UNESCO’s World Book and Copyright Day is on April 23.
5. What is the purpose of this day?
Answer: To raise awareness about the importance of books, promote literacy, and protect copyright.
6. How can schools celebrate this day?
Answer: By organizing book readings, storytelling events, essay competitions, or library visits.
7. What role does copyright play in this observance?
Answer: It recognizes authors’ rights and protects their work from unauthorized use.
8. How can individuals participate?
Answer: Read a book, gift a book, visit a library, or support an author online.
9. What is the significance for students?
Answer: Reading builds imagination, comprehension, and critical thinking—core for academic success.
10. Which country is selected as World Book Capital 2025?
Answer: As of now, UNESCO has not announced the Book Capital for 2025. Stay tuned!
Final Thoughts
Books have the power to make us laugh, cry, question, and dream. On World Book and Copyright Day 2025, let’s honor those who write, illustrate, publish, and protect the written word.
Most importantly, let’s open a book—because every page turned brings the world closer together.