Last week saw the London Book Fair bid adieu to Olympia, London.
Sadly this is the last LBF in this location as it moves to Excel in March 2027. A retrograde step in my view from a multi hall complex in Central London to a soul-less, characterless metal box located far out in the in the docklands. So it’s not surprising that many who have attended the Fairs over the year – visitors and exhibitors alike – will be feeling somewhat nostalgic. Personally I liked Earls Court.
Olympia has hosted more of the 54 book fairs than any other venue, but changes to the halls and reductions in space has meant some inconveniences. This year it was useful to find the Main Stage on one level with the Tech Centre and the Author Lounge right above, so there was a lot less dashing from one hall to the other side of the venue.
However, the LBF has always provided – and will continues to host – a wide range of book/publishing related events to tempt visitors. Whether it’s new titles – fiction and non-fiction, children’s, fascinating author interviews, author readings, audio books, illustration or celebrity guests, and of course AI.
The result from this year has been some very interesting, thought-provoking segments I’ll be covering over the next week or so. Above all the London Book Fair is all about books, reading, learning & enjoyment, but I for one will miss Olympia.
deilibri 