Kya Publishing Announces New Features for 3-Day Toronto Urban Book Expo 2020

TORONTO, ONT (February 2020) - Toronto-based publishing and communications company Kya Publishing has announced dates for the next edition of their Toronto Urban Book Expo. The book and writer's event will take place over three days leading up to Emancipation Day in Ontario: Wednesday, July 29 through Friday, July 31, 2020.

Established in 2014, the Expo has hosted nearly 100 published and independent authors from Canada and the U.S.A., for a book fair featuring a live DJ, refreshments, children's programming, and an interactive vendor fair. The event has now developed into a retreat for local and visiting international writers to participate in workshops, performances, networking, readings, and also targeted cultural exploration of Canada's urban centre.

"Over the years, our Expo has resonated with Black Canadian writers and also visiting African American writers," said Kya Publishing founder, Stacey Marie Robinson. "We recognize that there is a spirit of progress and cultural expression in Toronto that really speaks to stories of the African-diaspora, and we have expanded our event to give participants the opportunity to explore this culture and also educate themselves on publishing-related processes."

The three-day event will include expert presentations, author workshops, community activities, and participation in special events around the city of Toronto. Hosted primarily at the Toronto Public Library's Fairview Branch, there will also be events scheduled at local book stores and cultural sites.

"We love having the event around Emancipation Day weekend (and the adjacent Toronto Carnival festivities), because there is a beautiful influx of visitors in the city, celebratory energy, and cultural presentation that is definitely inspiring to creatives," said Robinson. "We encourage our participants to come to Toronto for the Book Expo, and stay for the rest of the wonderful activities...and opportunities for exposure."

While the "book fair" format primarily featured book vendors, the expanded event now speaks to the personal writer's journey, will emphasize the importance of business-building and networking within the writing community, and help authors to establish their personal profiles, followings, and additional sales opportunities.

Recipients of Toronto Arts Council (TAC) support, the Toronto Urban Book Expo looks forward to inviting guests to participate, interacting with local readers, and continuing to build an international community. Since 1974, the TAC has been committed to supporting "the emerging artist to the most established, from celebrated institutions to arts that challenge convention," and Kya Publishing is pleased to continue to reflect and celebrate "Toronto's vibrancy through the diversity of artists, arts communities, and audiences" as expressed by the TAC.

Registration for the Book Expo will begin in March (including fees, accommodation information, and confirmed presenters), with limited opportunities for vendor spaces, and a range of availability for author and community participation.

For additional information and updates about the Toronto Urban Book Expo, please connect with the planning committee or Board of Directors at TUBE@kyapublishing.com, via social media (@TorontoUrbanBookExpo), or please visit the Kya Publishing website for details.