Thanks to books, we primarily gain access to knowledge and ideas.
"The world is like a book, and those who only know their own country have read but the first page." - George Byron
April 23 is a symbolic date for world literature and prompted the establishment of World Book and Copyright Day.
On this date in 1616, M. Cervantes, W. Shakespeare, and Inca Garcilaso de la
Vega passed away. It is also the birthday or death day of notable authors such as Maurice Druon, Halldór Laxness, J. Pla, and Manuel Mejía Vallejo.
It was natural that the 1995 UNESCO General Conference in Paris decided to dedicate this day to books and authors, encouraging everyone, especially the youth, to find joy in reading and to respect the invaluable contribution of those who have advanced the social and cultural progress of humanity. Thus, World Book and Copyright Day was established along with the UNESCO Prize for the promotion of tolerance ideals in children's and youth literature.
The decision was made with the goal of enlightening, developing awareness of cultural traditions, and considering that books are the greatest means of spreading knowledge, the most reliable way to preserve it.
Through books, we gain access not only to knowledge but also to ideas, spiritual and moral values, to the understanding of beauty and human creative achievements. As a carrier of information, the foundation of education and creativity, the book allows each culture to tell about itself, acquainting us with the customs and traditions of various peoples.
The book is a window into the world of cultural diversity, a bridge connecting different civilizations across time and space.
Currently, Book Day is celebrated in over a hundred countries by millions of people, united in hundreds of different associations, marked in schools, public institutions, professional organizations, and private enterprises. Over this lengthy period, World Book and Copyright Day has made book lovers of many people from various cultures across all continents; it has also helped to strengthen copyright protection.
By marking World Book and Copyright Day, we all should pay special attention to the important role of the book in preserving and enriching each state's culture. After all, the book is the best assistant in our collective efforts to protect and enrich the cultural heritage of humanity.