April 23 is celebrated worldwide as International Book Day, a date dedicated to reading, protecting copyrights, and making the world of publishing more visible. It offers a vibrant chance to explore literature in Spain and beyond, spotlighting the diverse forms books can take. The day also marks a special moment when a Cervantes prize in his name is awarded, underscoring the enduring significance of Spanish letters. People can find discounts on sought-after titles, and the atmosphere is ripe for meeting favorite authors. Libraries, museums, and cultural institutions host roundtables, book signings, lectures, guided tours, children’s workshops, storytelling, concerts, and public readings. In short, it invites readers to experience literature in new and memorable ways.
In 1995 UNESCO chose this symbolic date to connect the deaths of notable literary figures with the power of books and reading. The message is clear: uncovering the beauty of books helps people understand their present and relate to their ancestors, building bridges across time and imagining future worlds. The idea is to promote universal access to reading while honoring authors and their works. This perspective resonates in today’s libraries and schools, where inclusive access to literature remains a guiding value. [UNESCO 1995]
Yet, as the beloved zarzuela La Verbena de la Paloma notes through a lighthearted line about progress, science often faces resistance to change. The author, a devoted reader, admits a personal reluctance to shift from paper books to digital formats. The sentiment is familiar to many: the tactile pleasure of turning pages, the scent of ink, and the feel of a living book resting in one’s hands still hold strong appeal. The author acknowledges that digital formats offer practical benefits, yet the romance of a traditional book endures. The same affection extends to cinema, where the magic of a large screen and shared audience experience creates something irreplaceable. Still, there are compromises worth considering as technology evolves. [Zarzuela reference]
Old texts endure through engravings on papyrus, parchment, or wooden boards, while modern technology expands the reach of these works. E-books bring advantages such as storage efficiency, portability, and potential long-term cost savings. Even staunch advocates of physical books recognize these benefits, though many readers refuse to relinquish the tangible joy of a printed page. The author explains that highlighting sentences, drawing in margins with children’s drawings, and collecting meaningful petals are part of a living, personal ritual. The message is clear: reading enriches life and opens doors to countless experiences. The invitation remains to read and truly live, celebrating Book Day with enthusiasm and gratitude. [Cultural reflections]