The 2025 JIBF will be held physically in Jerusalem between May 18-20, in a different and more intimate format which addresses issues which stand at the heart of the publishing world, as well as acknowledges and reverberates one of the most turbulent and challenging episodes in the history of the region. 

The JIBF is a project of the Municipality of Jerusalem, produced by the Ariel Municipal Company.

Since its inception in 1963, the JIBF (previously – the Jerusalem International Book Fair; currently – the Jerusalem International Book Forum) has brought together members of the international publishing community for a week of professional and intellectual as well as informal gatherings. Like the book fair, which preceded it, the Forum connects people of different origins, backgrounds and roles; it embraces cultural diversity and encourages open dialogue. The Forum continues this tradition, deepening and expanding the professional relationships formed in the friendly, open atmosphere that has become the signature characteristic of the JIBF.

The Forum offers a vibrant, relevant, and engaging platform for publishing professionals. It serves as both a workshop and social gathering, recognizing that the bonds and connections between people are among our most valuable resources. It is a meeting ground for discussing challenges and sharing insights and experience. At the heart of the Forum is a program of events including panels, discussion groups, interviews, presentations and informal gatherings, where publishing professionals can engage in the free exchange of ideas with their colleagues.

Participation in the 2025 Forum’s events requires pre-registration and confirmation of registration. 

The Zev Birger Editorial Fellowship program, named after its founder and sponsored by the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group since its inception in 1985, is a week long professional seminar for a group of about thirty-five fellows (editors, agents and scouts), which coincides with the Forum, allowing for further networking opportunities for the fellows. The 2025 fellowship program will take place from May 16th through May 22nd.

Since the beginning of the program it has produced about 600 Alumni. The Forum also offers special activities for returning Alumni. Participation of the Alumni is supported by Penguin Random House.

The JIBF is held in collaboration with the International Writers Festival of Mishkenot Sha’ananim, which offers a series of cultural and literary events.

JIBF STAFF

• Uri Menachem, CEO, Ariel Municipal Company
• Sharon Katz, Director, JIBF
• Yoel Makov, Chairman, JIBF
• Hadar Makov-Hasson, Artisitic Director, JIBF
• Liraz Nakdai, Head of Productions, Ariel Municipal Company
• Elisha Langental, Publicity, Ariel Municipal company
• Ela Zaken and Hodaya Dahan, Financial Supervisors, Ariel Municipal Company
• Michal Paikin, Public Relations