In a year of political change, what social, cultural and economic value does the book industry really offer the UK? How can we better unleash and promote the unique power we have to restore focus, depth and nuance to overloaded brains; foster much-needed empathy across widening divides; and nurture the best of human creativity in an automated world? This panel of industry leaders and activists explores how the industry can advocate for its value outside the publishing bubble, gain more funding and influence, and put books back at the heart of society.