On the third day of the 22nd Thessaloniki International Book Fair, attendance was particularly high. Hundreds of visitors toured the exhibition booths, met authors, translators, illustrators, and publishers, and attended the rich program of events, activities, discussions, and book presentations.

Issues such as artificial intelligence, the relationship between books and the modern digital age, freedom of expression, translation as a bridge between cultures, the role of libraries and publishers, reading habits, community, authors’ professional rights, and the public role of literature were at the center of the events. Authors, translators, publishers, academics, and book professionals highlighted the new challenges as well as the timeless power of literary expression.

The presence of many children was also notable; they visited the fair with their parents and participated in a variety of events and activities for young readers. The children played, were given guided tours of the fair’s venues, and were introduced to the world of books. At the same time, there was a strong presence of teenagers and college students, who attended discussions and presentations on contemporary and young adult literature.