Arguably one of the premier book industry events every year is the BookExpo America conference, which takes places in late May at the Javits Center in New York. The event grown quickly to encompass nearly every aspect of the publishing industry: special day-long conferences on the digital industry, a stand-alone event tied to BEA that focuses solely on self-publishing, even a book blogger space with author/speakers, interview opportunities, and more.
But in an effort to stay relevant and reach as wide an exhibiting audience as possible, BEA will be moving from New York in 2016, staging instead in Chicago. But following the test run there, the organizers are looking seriously at other venues to provide as much diversity and opportunity as possible.
The organizers released a blog post asking for input from industry professionals and industry watchers alike. Where should BEA go after Chicago? Critics have argued that you won’t find a US city more bookcentric and publishing oriented than New York City, but NY is also a “destination” city, meaning a lot of attendees will make the trip because…hey, it’s New York.
Some of the other potential locations have been shot down due to concerns about access to plentiful hotel spaces, lack of round the clock direct access flights, complicated ground transportation or parking, and more. Beyond that, BEA organizers understand that a lot of the business of a conference like this takes place off-site at sponsored dinners and events, and that attendees and exhibitors alike are more likely to participate if those venues are unique, intriguing, historical, and more.
For the opportunity to weigh in on where you think BEA’s future should roll out, check out their blog to vote.
Mercy Pilkington is a Senior Editor for Good e-Reader. She is also the CEO and founder of a hybrid publishing and consulting company.