A staple of the emirate’s cultural calendar for almost half a century, Sharjah International Book Fair isn’t an event that trades on novelty. The fair has grown significantly since it was established in 1982, but for the most part, visitors know what to expect when making their way to Expo Centre Sharjah. As the event opens for its 45th year, running until November 15, the venue is once again decked out in familiar orange banners.