by InTrieste
Trieste will be the center of the global literary world from August 30 to September 1, as it hosts the 39th IBBY International Congress, a key event in the realm of children’s literature. The announcement was made on Tuesday, August 6, at a press conference held in the City Council Hall, attended by prominent local officials and representatives from IBBY (International Board on Books for Young People).
The press event was led by Giorgio Rossi, Trieste’s City Councilor for Culture and Tourism, Maurizio De Blasio, City Councilor for Education and Family, and Elisabetta Lippolis, Vice President of IBBY Italy. They were joined by institutional partners including the Ministry of Culture, the Municipality of Trieste, the Autonomous Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, and CEPELL, the Center for Books and Reading.
Rossi highlighted the significance of the Congress, emphasizing its dual purpose: promoting international understanding through children’s books and recognizing Trieste’s historical context. “The choice of Trieste is not just about cultural reasons but also about our city’s role in witnessing the horrors of the 20th century. Trieste embodies patience and hospitality, making this Congress a fitting tribute to those values,” Rossi stated.
De Blasio echoed Rossi’s sentiments, praising the Congress as both a high-profile event and a valuable opportunity for cultural enrichment. He stressed the social importance of the Congress, noting that fostering a love for reading and curiosity is crucial for the civil progress of societies, particularly in an era marked by complex generational interactions.
Lippolis added that Trieste’s reputation as a “City that Reads” and its strong tradition of promoting literature made it an ideal location for the Congress. She also noted that the event will benefit from the city’s extensive network of libraries and cultural institutions. “Trieste offers a fertile ground for the Congress, with its rich cultural landscape and commitment to literacy,” she said. The Congress has attracted 630 delegates from 65 countries, reflecting its global significance.
IBBY, founded in Zurich in 1953 by Jella Lepman, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting international understanding through children’s literature. Lepman’s vision was to use books as a means to cultivate respect and curiosity, counteracting the impact of war and tyranny. Today, IBBY comprises 84 national sections worldwide, representing both well-established and pioneering efforts in children’s publishing and literacy.
This year’s Congress will be preceded by the opening of an exhibition titled “Jella Lepman – Let Us Begin with Children. Books as Bridges” on August 28 at 5 PM in Sala Veruda. The exhibition, supported by IBBY Italy, will showcase Lepman’s legacy and the enduring impact of her work.
The complete Congress program will be available at www.ibbycongress2024.org, providing further details on this landmark event in the world of children’s literature.
