What's Happening?
The Book 2.0 conference in Lisbon, Portugal, is set to take place on September 3 and 4, focusing on 'The Future of Reading.' Organized by the Portuguese Publishers and Booksellers Association, the event aims to promote reading and literacy in Portugal. Gvantsa Jobava, president of the International Publishers Association (IPA), will deliver a keynote address, emphasizing the role of books in shaping democratic societies. The conference will feature 35 talks and over 40 speakers, discussing the reinvention of books, reading, and human potential in the context of artificial intelligence and digital acceleration. The event is part of a broader strategy to internationalize Book 2.0 and expand its reach.
Why It's Important?
The Book 2.0 conference is significant as it addresses the challenges and opportunities facing the publishing industry in an era of digital transformation. By focusing on the reinvention of books and reading, the conference highlights the importance of adapting to technological advancements while preserving democratic values. The event underscores the need for structural policies to promote reading and ensure access to books, which is crucial for fostering critical thinking and imagination in society. The involvement of international speakers and partners reflects the growing recognition of the conference as a platform for dialogue and cooperation in the publishing sector.
What's Next?
The conference organizers plan to launch an edition of Book 2.0 abroad, aiming to strengthen international cooperation in the publishing and bookselling sectors. This initiative seeks to position reading and language protection as cultural policy priorities across Europe. The conference will also address the unlicensed use of copyrighted content by generative AI systems, advocating for transparency and licensing agreements with tech platforms. These discussions are expected to influence future policies and collaborations within the publishing industry.
Beyond the Headlines
The Book 2.0 conference explores deeper implications of the publishing industry's evolution, particularly in relation to artificial intelligence and ecological urgency. The event encourages reflection on how books and knowledge must adapt to these changes, emphasizing the role of publishers in safeguarding democratic values. The conference also highlights the ethical and legal challenges posed by AI's use of copyrighted content, advocating for a united front among publishers to protect their rights.
