MIBF 2022: What to expect in the Manila International Book Fair's on-site return to SMX
Heads up, bookworms! The Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) is opening its doors for an on-site return at the SMX Convention Center this September 15 to 18, 2022.
The country's largest and longest-running book fair has been going online amid the pandemic for the past two years, but now it's slated to make a grand comeback for bookworms of all walks of life.
The news first spread when MIBF shared their own news via their automated chatbox on Facebook, but now PhilSTAR L!fe has received exclusive details about the much-awaited three-day event. Read on!
MIBF 2022 will be a hybrid event
For those who won't be able to join the fun at the SMX Convention Center just yet, this year will also see the return of the MIBF Online Marketplace at mibfonline.com. The site is still closed for now, but bookworms can expect to see the full collection once the physical event nears.
Checking the site could also be a way to see the catalog before heading to the Convention Center.
Meanwhile, the Book Fair itself will be open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM at Exhibit Halls 2 to 4 of the SMX Convention Center Manila in Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.
While the SMX Convention Center will run from September 15 to 18, the digital marketplace is extended from September 15 to 21.
There will be over 200 book exhibitors and 50 events
With 40 years under its belt, MIBF isn't just a treat for bookworms, it's also given local publishers a platform to showcase their works to a massive audience.
MIBF 2022 is expecting over 200 exhibitors ranging from book stores, book printers, foreign publishers, embassies, art and craft suppliers, artist groups, tech businesses, paper suppliers, libraries, and more.
On the other hand, they're also gearing up for a number of events for attendees such as conferences, book signings, panel discussions, writing training, and book launchings, among others.
The events will be targeted not just at readers and writers, but also at hobbyists, enthusiasts, and artists.
COVID-19 guidelines will be in place
Did you know that MIBF visitors only keep growing? From 120,000 attendees in 2017 to over 160,000 during their last on-site event in 2019, the organizers are already setting their sights on more readers as time goes by.
But with the pandemic still in place, it's best to be reminded of basic practices, such as temperature checks, wearing face masks, and staying home if you feel sick. MIBF 2022 also has yet to share its ground directory to ensure physical distancing.
Follow the Manila International Book Fair Facebook and Instagram pages for more updates.