Since 1967, International Children's Book Day has been celebrated on or around Hans Christian Andersen's birthday (April 2) to inspire a love of reading and call attention to children's books.
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Each year, a different national section of IBBY has the opportunity to be the international sponsor of ICBD. It decides upon a theme and invites a prominent author from the host country to write a message to the children of the world and a well-known illustrator to design a poster. These materials are used in different ways to promote books and reading. Many IBBY sections promote ICBD through the media and organize activities in schools and public libraries. Often ICBD is linked to celebrations around children´s books and other special events that may include encounters with authors and illustrators, writing competitions, or announcements of book awards.
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download the 2023 digital materials
USBBY was the sponsor for
International Children's Book Day 2021.
USBBY was honored to have been selected by the IBBY Executive Committee to create the poster and message for the 2021 International Children’s Book Day. Award-winning Cuban-American author, Margarita Engle, wrote the inspirational message for the poster’s theme, “The Music of Words.” Hans Christian Andersen Award recipient, Brazilian illustrator Roger Mello, designed the magnificent poster. USBBY is grateful to Margarita and Roger for sharing their talents with us.