The network, composed of the World Book Capitals from past, current, and future editions wishes to use the potential, experience, and commitment of member cities to develop joint projects and programmes able to create social awareness around literature and its creators, the book industry, broadening the audience of readers and strengthening the war against illiteracy. The network also aims to promote sustainable publishing practices in terms of the environment as well as international exchanges including the mobility of writers, translators, and representatives of the publishing world.
Torino was awarded the title of UNESCO World Book Capital in 2006-2007 together with Rome and became part of the network in 2022.