We were excited to welcome audiences back into our South Belfast home in June. As we reopened the building, we listened to conversations about place, belonging and not-belonging, and the shared desire for connection and comfort.

For Book Festival 2022 we invited visitors to read in our pop-up Library; to meet, watch and listen to storytellers; to write their own stories; to take part in craft workshops; and to build, borrow or buy their summer reading list.

In 2022:

• We introduced a Pay What You Want ticketing scheme.
• We commissioned new works and welcomed Artists in Residence. Many of the works created for the Festival, including poems and artwork, are now on display throughout The Crescent. You can find out more here.

What an amazing few days you all gave Belfast! I was so proud to be part of it over that first weekend — the building was just buzzing. Everything about those days felt inclusive, exciting, celebratory, provocative and interesting. Well done to all of you for everything you put in. Bring on 2023! The programme had such a variety of events there was something for everyone.Lucy Caldwell, Writer and Belfast Book Festival Patron

I think my time in Belfast will remain with me for years — the kindness and professionalism of the staff, the great audiences, the backstage gossip. This is what literature events are all about. Thanks so much for including me.

Joelle Taylor, Artist