The baby, kids and maternity industry in Italy is well defined and all-encompassing and Bologna has emerged as a market leader within a specific niche – child literature and literacy – thanks to the massively successful and long-running Bologna Children’s Book Fair (BCBF). Already on its 61st edition, the book fair continues to generate excitement as a meeting space for the publishing industry, regardless of borders, to spark creativity, collaboration and innovation. BCBF serves as a dynamic meeting place for publishers, authors, illustrators and industry professionals to trade copyrights, discuss the future of publishing, and foster the birth of new ideas. Alongside BCBF, its sister events, BolognaBookPlus (BBPlus) and Bologna Licensing Trade Fair/Kids (BLTF/K), further enrich the experience as they cater to diverse facets of publishing and licensing. With an expected 1500 exhibitors from around 100 countries and regions, including newcomers from Angola to Uganda, BCBF is a truly global affair. Supported by initiatives from the Italian Trade Agency and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the book fair has never stopped evolving as it readily embraces new stimuli and initiatives to support the global publishing industry. It’s why Bologna’s so integrally positioned in the baby, kids and maternity industry. BCBF’s recent admission as a Patron Member of the International Publishers Association (IPA) better equips the fair to advance publishing freedom and copyright protection worldwide. This prestigious affiliation enhances BCBF’s role as a pivotal player in the global publishing. Sustainability takes center stage at BCBF 2024, reflecting a growing focus on environmental responsibility within the publishing industry. Collaborative efforts with the United Nations and IPA will delve into the role of books in shaping the worldview of future generations, highlighting the intersection of literature and sustainability. It’s also worth noting how BCBF fosters international partnerships through its collaboration with markets ranging from Slovenia to China.