World Book Night Suspends Operations

 I just learned the World Book Night is suspending their operations. So, sad but I wasn't surprised. It was very ex

Spreading the Love of Reading, Person to Person

Dear World Book Night U.S. friend, After three years in which thousands and thousands of you distributed over a million and half specially-printed World Book Night paperbacks across America, we are sad to announce that we are suspending operations. The expenses of running World Book Night U.S., even given the significant financial and time commitment from publishers, writers, booksellers, librarians, printers, distributors, shippers--and you, our amazing givers!--are too high to sustain. This has been a remarkable, passionate undertaking, and it has been a success by all measures, except for one: Outside funding. For three years, the publishing industry and book community have very generously footed the bill and contributed enormous time and effort, and we are so very grateful for all the support. We did receive some funds via individual donations, and we worked very hard to get grants. We did get some, but there are a lot of other worthy causes out there and only so much money available. We can't carry on without significant, sustainable outside funding. From World Book Night U.S. Board Chairman Michael Pietsch: "World Book Night's first three years have been a profound experience for everyone involved. The altruistic spirit of the givers and of industry supporters have reminded us all of the transformative impact books have on people's lives, and of the power of a book as a gift. The World Book Night Board joins me in extending their deep gratitude to all who have taken part." WBN U.S. Exec Director Carl Lennertz added: "Some of you know our names here, but I want to be sure you know these--Laura Peraza and Carolyn Schwartz. They have been here since day one, and they, along with you, are my heroes. Alia Almeida joined us this year and was a creative force. A list of all the booksellers, librarians, authors, and folks in publishing and at Ingram would be too long to include here, but they know who they are and I know they have loved being a part of this beautiful thing we did together." We are staying on hand through the summer without pay to maintain social media contact with you all, to talk good books, and to announce the winner of the giver essay contest. YOU, the givers, made it possible for WBN to reach its full potential. For us here at World Book Night, this experience has been life-changing, as we hope it has been for you and recipients of the books. Our gratitude to you is simply immeasurable. With much love, appreciation, and admiration, thank you! Team WBN U.S

pensive even with the large supporters. Just think of the cost of shipping and advertising cost.

After three years which thousands of volunteer givers distributed over a million and ha half world book night paperbacks across America, we have to suspend operations. The expenses of running World Book Night U.S. even given a significant financial and time commitment from publishers, writers, givers, booksellers, librarians, printers, distributor, and shippers, are too high to sustain without additional funding. 

I was involved twice for WBN. The first time I  was involved I did not have as fun as the second time. I think the first time I did not know what I was doing.  I had thought to do it at my job, where I work. The second time I ventured out and thought outside the box.  The best time I did it, was at the beach. I loved the expression of people's faces when I approached them. Probably thinking what is a stranger coming to me for.  These are strange times we live in. Most people don't approach people on a beach unless you know them. So the look on their faces were priceless.

I would like to thank World Book Night, because I doubt that day will forgotten. I would like to thank you for the experience of being involved in this venture.