World Book Day

Last Thursday, while most of the country was snowed in, World Book Day occurred in Ireland, an annual day to promote reading, writing and copyright, and to particularly popularise books for children.  The event was launched by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1995.

Officially UNESCO declared April 23rd World Book Day to coincide with the death anniversary of William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes.  Several countries opted to change the date to best suit their own citizens including Ireland and the UK, who chose the first of March, and the USA, who chose the Sunday closest to the 26th of April.  Currently all United Nation member states observe World Book Day.

The main aim of World Book Day has now become the promotion of reading among children.  Studies have shown that children who read for pleasure are more likely to secure professional jobs in later life and less likely to suffer from depression.

Every child in full time education in this country is due to receive a book token.  Red Books will accept World Book Day Tokens this year again, offering €1.50 off any book bought with a token.