Despite the gloomy weather, public attendance at the Valencia Book Fair has been remarkable, filling the streets of the Jardines de Viveros. This 61st edition has seen a 10% increase in exhibitors, including five independent bookstores making their debut at the event.
Among the new additions is La Llibreria de Campanar, which opened just four months ago in the neighborhood of the same name. Its owners, two doctors passionate about books, express their excitement to participate in the fair. They state that the neighborhood has welcomed them very well, and even residents have come to visit them at the event.
“"The dream of being a bookseller is also the dream of participating in the Book Fair, and a month after opening, we signed up for the fair."
Another new participant is Terramar Llibreria, located in Canyamelar. This bookstore describes itself as generalist, offering a wide variety of books, with specialized sections such as esoteric literature. Also joining is Arribada Llibres, an independent bookstore near the Central Market, which focuses on independent publishers, political essays, and children's books.
These projects contribute to fostering a reading culture in the city's neighborhoods. The director of the Book Fair highlights the importance of these independent bookstores, which bring personality and are driven by young people with great enthusiasm. The results of this edition are expected to be positive, judging by the large public turnout recorded.
“"I would highlight the independent bookstores that are emerging in the city of Valencia, projects with personality, projects often led by young people with great drive."
