The Jerusalem International Book Fair (JIBF) has rebranded as the Jerusalem International Book Forum. The name change comes along with other shifts at the event, which will be held May 12-15 next year.
One of the other changes will see the elimination of the use of a convention hall and convention center, which the fair has employed for 28 years. Moving forward the fair will use what show creators called a "forum format" in which panels, discussion groups, interviews, presentations and informal gatherings will be held at various locations throughout the city of Jerusalem.
The forums will be produced in collaboration with the International Writers Festival at Mishkenot Sha’aninim, which will be held May 12-16, 2018. The intention is, representatives said in a statement, "a comprehensive and multi-faceted experience for attendees: professional events alongside literary events."
The Zev Birger Editorial Fellowship program will remain unchanged, and its next slate of 35 fellows will be chosen later this year. Also unchanged will be the official opening ceremony and the awarding of the Jerusalem Prize, honoring the works of authors whose work asserts "the freedom of the individual in society," by the Mayor of Jerusalem.
"Supported by the Mayor and the Municipality of Jerusalem, the Ministry of Culture, Israeli publishers, and by many loyal and committed friends and contributors, we are proud to announce a new JIBF," director Yoel Makov and production coordinator Sharon Katz, said in a joint statement. "The new JIBF will serve as both a workshop and a meeting ground for discussing challenges, exchanging ideas, and sharing insights and experience, and as a social gathering, recognizing that the bonds and connections between people are among our most valuable resources."
