The 2016 Bologna Children's Book Fair will be held from July 2 to August 14 at the Itabashi Art Museum in Nishi-Takashimadaira, Tokyo. This exhibition is the Japan tour of the Bologna Children's Book Fair, a children's book fair held in Bologna, Italy, since 1967. The exhibition first toured Japan in 1978 as the Bologna Children's Book Fair and has been held at the Itabashi Art Museum since 1981, marking its 36th year at the museum. The Bologna Children's Book Fair, now known as one of the world's largest picture book illustration competitions, is open to anyone who submits a set of five artworks specifically for a children's book. It is also known as a gateway for new illustrators, and many picture book authors have emerged from the exhibition. The exhibition, where works by both famous and newcomers are presented and judged on the same table, actively embraces experimental endeavors, showcasing a diverse range of picture book expressions. This year's Bologna Children's Book Fair included picture book author Taro Miura on the judging panel. 3,191 works were submitted from 61 countries, with 77 artists (groups) from 18 countries, including 10 from Japan, selected. All of the selected works will once again be exhibited at the 2016 Bologna Children's Book Fair, held at the Itabashi Art Museum. In addition, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the exhibition in Italy, a special exhibition, "Bologna: 50 Years of Progress," will be held. During the fair, a cafe boasting homemade bread will open, along with a bookstore offering a wide selection of picture books, including foreign books. Various picture book-related events will also be held. For event details and schedules, please visit the Itabashi Art Museum's official website.

【Event Information】
"2016 Bologna International Children's Book Illustrations Exhibition, Italy"
Venue: Itabashi Art Museum
Address: 5-34-27 Akatsuka, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo
Dates: July 2nd - August 14th
Hours: 9:30am - 5:00pm (last entry at 4:30pm)
Admission: 650 yen for adults, 450 yen for high school and university students, 200 yen for elementary and junior high school students
Closed: Mondays (however, the museum will be open on July 18th as it is a national holiday and will be closed the following day)