The London Book Fair launches Disability Inclusion and Accessibility Hub for children’s publishing

The London Book Fair will launch a new Disability Inclusion and Accessibility Hub at this year’s fair (10–12 March at Olympia London), hosted by Alex Strick (children's book author, consultant and reviewer) and Beth Cox (Inclusion and Equality Consultant).

Located at Stand 2D110, the hub will provide a dedicated space for organisations and charities working to improve accessibility and inclusion in children’s publishing, ensuring that more children can see themselves represented in books and access stories in a range of formats.

The hub will act as a central meeting point where visitors can discover resources, connect with accessibility experts, and gain practical guidance on creating inclusive and accessible books for young readers.

Participating organisations include RNIB, ClearVision, Living Paintings, My Kind of Book, Inclusive Minds, Empathy Lab, and others working to remove barriers to reading.

Pop-Up Book Clinic for accessible children’s publishing

The hub will also host a Pop-Up Book Clinic offering 20-minute in-person consultations for children’s publishing professionals, authors, and illustrators seeking expert advice on accessibility and inclusion in children’s books.

These free sessions will provide practical guidance on how to improve accessibility in both published titles and forthcoming books, helping ensure stories can reach as many young readers as possible.

Research shows that when children find relatable characters and experiences in books, it significantly increases their enjoyment of reading. However, to reach every child, books must be designed to be accessible in multiple formats, enabling children with different needs and abilities to fully engage with stories.

Beth Cox said:

“In the National Year of Reading, it’s more vital than ever that we ensure that all children can access books. We’re delighted that inclusion and accessibility has been given such a high profile at the fair and that The London Book Fair’s Event Director, Emma Lowe, has provided this space to amplify the importance of accessibility and inclusion.”

Alex Strick added:

“There are some outstanding organisations working to break down barriers for young readers. By bringing them together with publishers and industry partners, we hope to spark new discussions and collaborations that champion accessibility and inclusion in children’s books.”

Emma Lowe, Director of The London Book Fair, said:

“Accessibility and inclusion is something that is very close to my heart for a number of close family reasons. I feel strongly that The London Book Fair should be an important platform to bring this to light for the whole industry.

The stories we tell are only as good as the characters we create. In my experience, life is richer and more joyful when we give voice and space to all, whatever their lived experience. My huge thanks to Alex and Beth for bringing this Inclusion and Accessibility Hub to life, and I hope it helps foster some vital conversations and connections.”

The Disability Inclusion and Accessibility Hub at The London Book Fair aims to bring together publishers, organisations, and accessibility advocates to drive meaningful change across the industry and ensure more inclusive, accessible books for children everywhere.

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