Reedpop’s decision to move the dates of BookExpo, Unbound, and BookCon from late May to July 22–26 did not convince the country’s second largest trade publisher to attend. HarperCollins confirmed Monday afternoon that it had reconsidered its decision to attend the events, which are set for New York’s Javits Center.
“In light of the current situation and the unpredictability of the coronavirus in the coming months, we’ve made the difficult decision to withdraw our participation in BookExpo and BookCon 2020,” HC said in a statement. “We understand the importance of connecting with booksellers, educators, and readers, and look forward to engaging with them at other opportunities.”
Reedpop announced last week it was moving the show’s dates. Monday morning, New York State said it was converting the Javits Center into a temporary hospital. According to Gothamist, four field hospitals operating inside the Javits could be operational by next week.
HC’s withdrawal from BookExpo follows the decision made earlier this month by Penguin Random House to not attend the events.
