Jeugdboekenweek

Jeugdboekenweek, or Youth Book Week, is an annual event in the Netherlands that promotes children's and youth literature. It is organized by the Collectieve Propaganda van het Nederlandse Boek (CPNB) and aims to stimulate reading among children and young people, highlighting Dutch and translated works for young readers.

The event typically lasts about a week in the spring and involves libraries, schools, and bookstores across the country. Each year a central theme is chosen by the CPNB, and a selection of titles is featured to illustrate the theme. A core component is often a theme book or a set of recommended titles that guide the activities and communications for the week.

Activities during Jeugdboekenweek include author visits to schools and libraries, readings, workshops, book signings, exhibitions, and coordinated media campaigns in print and online. Local libraries and educational institutions organize programs aligned with the theme, making the week a nationwide platform for youth literature.

Historically, Jeugdboekenweek has been part of the Dutch effort to promote reading among young readers and has evolved with changes in publishing and media. It is related to, but distinct from, the Kinderboekenweek, which focuses on younger children and takes place in autumn. Jeugdboekenweek specifically targets older children and adolescents, emphasizing accessibility, diversity, and engagement with contemporary youth literature.

The event contributes to greater visibility for youth authors and illustrators, supports school and library programming, and helps young readers discover new titles and authors.