Hebrew Book Week (Hebrew: שבוע הספר העברי) is an annual week-long event in Israel celebrating Hebrew literature.

History

Hebrew Book Week evolved from a one-day event on Rothschild Boulevard in Tel Aviv organized by Bracha Peli, founder of Masada Press, to promote book sales in 1926.

During Hebrew Book Week, outdoor book fairs are held all over the country and publishing companies sell their books at a discount. Bookstores in Israel typically offer sales during this time which can last up to a month. In recent years, Hebrew Book Week has been extended to ten days.^[1]

Venues in Jerusalem have included the Israel Museum, Liberty Bell Park, Safra Square and the old Jerusalem Railway Station.^[2] The fair in Tel Aviv takes places at Rabin Square.

In addition to book sales, a variety of literary events are held during Book Week, such as get-togethers with authors and public readings. The award ceremony for the Sapir Prize take place during Hebrew Book Week. There is also a heightened level of attention paid to literature in the media.