The country’s biggest and longest-running book fair, Manila International Book Fair, is happening on Sept. 12-16 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay.
For its 39th installment, the MIBF invited over 100 exhibitors, ranging from local indie publishers to big bookstore chains. The book fair has also prepared a lineup of events such as book signings, book launches, meet and greets, storytelling sessions for kids, special contests, workshops, and other activities to cater to bookworms both young and old. In addition, happening is the very first POP HUB: Comic Splash x Fandom Fest on Sept. 15-16
Excited yet overwhelmed? Here’s a survival guide to help you make the most out of your MIBF trip this year.
Get comfy. With two floors of exhibit space, cover more ground by wearing clothes you can easily move in. Put on your trusty pair of rubber shoes for maximum comfort.
List, list, list! Book shopping sprees are fun, but overspending isn’t. Make a list of all the books you’re planning to buy beforehand to help yourself stay within budget.
Bring trolleys and big bags. With so many publishers and distributors at MIBF, there will be lots of sales and discounted items. Bring sturdy tote bags or trolleys to help you carry your book purchases.
Come early. The earlier you come, the less crowd there will be and the easier it will be to navigate through the abundance of booths.
Check out children’s and YA books. The second floor of SMX will be a haven of books for younger readers. Find exclusive sales and new releases to take home as pasalubong for the little ones, or for your own reading enjoyment.
Get your books signed. Keep an eye out for book signings from local and international authors. Check out the social media pages of National Bookstore, Anvil Publishing House, PSICOM Publishing, and more and jot down your own list of absolutely-cannot-be-missed book signings.
Attend book launches. Many authors will be gracing the MIBF to launch their books. Take note of launch times and dates and work your schedule around these MIBF-exclusives. Keep posted on details from local publishers like Visprint, Adarna House, Precious Hearts Romances, OMF Literature, and many more.
Represent your fandom. The MIBF weekend will be buzzing with activities for every fandom, so make sure you can be recognized. Whether you’re a Potterhead, Trekkie, Hamilfan, or others, take pride in your fandom to geek out with fellow fans and make friends across fandoms at the Pop Hub: Comic Splash x Fandom Fest.
Attend talks and workshops. The MIBF isn’t just about coming in, buying books, and leaving. Learn something new by attending talks and panel discussions by authors, artists, and even enthusiastic fans, or get your hands dirty at the many art workshops lined up at the MIBF.
Support local artists. Aside from the many local authors at the MIBF, independent artists will be showcasing their works at the Artist Lane, located in the Pop Hub. Show your support by purchasing stickers, prints, fanmade art, and original works from various artists.
