The Book and Periodical Council was formed in 1975 as the Book and Periodical Development Council to provide a venue for members to discuss industry issues, address mutual concerns and undertake projects for the benefit of Canadian writing and publishing.
As the umbrella organization for associations involved in the writing and editing, publishing and manufacturing, distribution and selling and lending of books and periodicals in Canada, the BPC works to raise public awareness through initiatives relating to reading, writing, publishing, distribution and freedom of expression.
One of the primary goals of the Book and Periodical Council is to function as a forum for its member associations to network, identify common goals and coordinate action to benefit the Canadian writing and publishing industry.
Our full members represent approximately 6,000 individuals and 5,500 firms and institutions. Our associate members represent an additional several thousand individuals, firms and institutions.
Major Programs of the Book and Periodical Council
Freedom to Read Week: Freedom to Read Week (www.freedomtoread.ca) was initiated by the Freedom of Expression Committee in 1984 and remains Canada’s only volunteer-run celebration of intellectual freedom. Celebrated across Canada, the week-long event promotes freedom of expression and access to Canadian books and magazines.
Book Summit Program: The Book Summit (www.booksummit.ca) is an annual day-long professional development conference held in June. The Summit presents a keynote speaker and hosts panel discussions and workshops which focus on current industry issues.
The Idea Exchange: The Idea Exchange series is a forum for the discussion of issues, trends and portents affecting creators and developers in all fields of publishing. The BPC presents speakers with informed views on topics of importance and encourages audience engagement in an open and inquiring environment.
Member Programs of the Book and Periodical Council
Freight and Distribution Plan: The BPC’s The Freight and Distribution Committee oversees the Publishing Industry Freight Plan, which the BPC introduced in 1982. This plan offers discounted shipping rates to bookstores and publishers across Canada. The committee also organizes educational seminars and offers a Corrugation Purchasing Plan for discounted prices on shipping materials.
Employee Benefits Program: The BPC office has run a Group Employee Health Benefits program for more than twenty years for the employees of its member associations.
Council Program: The BPC holds four Council meetings a year, including the Annual General Meeting. The BPC invites industry experts to Council meetings to give presentations on current issues or updates on new initiatives.
