Media Release 7 September 2011 National Book Week 5 10 September National Book Week is proving to be a major reading promotion

n initiative across South Africa. Only in its second year of running, the campaign has received endorsements from a wide range of stakeholders. First established in September 2010 by the South African Book Development Council (SABDC) in association with the Department of Arts and Culture (DAC), National Book Week is a period for the promotion of a culture of reading and writing. The objective is to create a platform where government, the book sector and civil society can establish dynamic partnerships to promote access to books and contribute towards the creation of a reading society. This years National Book Week is celebrated from 5 10 September. The main programme will be held at Museum Africa, Johannesburg, on 8 10 September. It includes dedicated activities for children at the Childrens Tent, where there will be puppet shows, storytelling sessions, comedy etc. Activities for adults and youth will include book signings, panel discussions, writing and publishing workshops, poetry performances, motivational speaking, etc. As this is a national campaign, National Book week is celebrated nationwide. Our media partners, including SABC 1 and Metro FM, have played a pivotal role in reaching out to the broader society. South African Airways (SAA) and the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) make use of their publicity material to inform passengers and visitors to airports about National Book Week. The City of Joburg, as the host city, has endorsed the campaign and is one of the major partners in this endeavour.

The campaign has also been endorsed by people like Zukiswa Wanner, Sbusiso Leope, Nkhensani Nkosi, Slikour, Lebo Mashile, Angela Makholwa, Fiona Snyckers, Azania Ndoro, Dineo Moeketsi, Bridget Masinga, and other prominent individuals who use various media platforms to promote reading. They will also participate in a number of activities at Museum Africa, where they will read and share inspirational stories about the importance of reading and how it has changed their lives. To celebrate this years National Book Week, South Africans are called upon to Buy, Read and Share books by donating them to the needy. It is through a widespread reading culture that we can become a better informed society. It takes one person at a time. For more information, please visit the National Book Week website at:
www.nationalbookweek.co.za

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: Mack Lewele : Siphiwo Mahala

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