From Books to Experiences – The New Ways of Reading

Reading is no longer a solitary act – it’s becoming a shared social experience, and increasingly immersive. From silent reading parties and bookstore crawls to subscription boxes and special editions; from online book clubs and fandoms to social reading apps, the ways readers discover, engage with and value books are changing fast. 

Bringing together perspectives from across the industry, this session explores how communities drive demand, how collectable editions create new value, and how the “eventisation” of reading turns literature into a live, shareable experience. 

Drawing on selected international examples, we’ll take a closer look at what’s driving these developments and what makes individual models succeed in practice – and ask whether we’re seeing a lasting shift in reading culture, or just a short-lived hype. 

Hosted by award-winning journalist Felix Zeltner, enjoy the famous Hof feeling, connect with our guests, contribute your own questions and comments, and meet the worldwide community in our breakout rooms! As always, live music and mindfulness will be part of the hour. 

Community members about The Hof: 

“With 'The Hof' the Frankfurter Buchmesse team has found the holy grail of networking”
– Paul P. Gerbino, President, Triumvirate Content Consultants

“The only virtual meeting where you can actually feel something”
– Niki Théron, Head of International Professional Programs, Frankfurter Buchmesse

“The Hof is the best idea ever”
– Simon de Jocas, President, Éditions Les 400 Coups; Co-Founder, Publishers Without Borders