Book lovers, clear your schedules this week — the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF), the country’s biggest and longest-running book fair, is back! The Book Fair runs from September 12 to 16 at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City. Join authors, publishers and readers once again in celebrating the power of the written word.

The MIBF has been going strong for 33 years now, evolving from an event for the industry and the academe into an attraction that draws readers of all ages, from all walks of life. And after three decades, its objective has remained the same: to bring books closer to the Filipino people by promoting good reading habits and providing a venue for the exchange of ideas among the players in the industry.

The MIBF showcases the largest and most varied collection of literature for both leisure and academic reading — from textbooks, education supplements, general reference, religious and inspirational titles, self-help books, management books, Filipiniana, coffee table books, popular novels, children’s books, art books, graphic novels, rare and hard-to-find titles, magazines, audio and e-books, multimedia, teaching supplies and services, publishers’ technology, and travel materials. Academics can check out new acquisitions for school libraries, as the event is a good venue to compare offerings from various exhibitors and get the best prices for bulk purchases. Regular and book buyers will find endless shelves of reading materials, and book addicts can load up on books to add to their collections. Plus, many authors and illustrators will be present to sign copies of their works.

Bring your children! There will be storytelling sessions and launching of new kids’ books for them to enjoy. After all, book readers almost always start their life-long love for literature during their tender years.

Several co-located events are slated at the MIBF, ensuring added attractions for a wide variety of interests: The Best of Anime 2012 (Sept. 15 & 16, Function Room 4 & 5), a festival featuring anime exhibits, gaming, cosplay, concert and special activities that will thrill anime and manga enthusiasts; Super Kids 2012 (Sept. 14-15 , Function Room 3), an early childhood education conference; and Facets of Wellness (Sept. 14-15, Function Rooms 1&2), a two-day health and wellness fair.

The MIBF runs from Sept. 14 to 18 at the SMX Convention Center, Seashell Drive, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. It is organized by Primetrade Asia, Inc. in partnership with Asian Catholic Communicators, Inc., Book Development Association of the Philippines, Philippine Booksellers Association, Inc., and Publishers Representatives Organization of the Philippines. For details, call 896-0661 or 896-0682, or e-mail bookfair@primetradeasia.com.