ROME - The cultural and literary fair “più libri, più liberi” taking place this month was inaugurated by the President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella Wednesday, with the sentiment that “reading has to do with freedom and with free spirits. And with hope. Precisely “more books, more are free."” There will be over 500 publishers coming to Rome to discuss their works, talk about this year's theme of legality and human rights, and mingle during musical performances in a giant celebration of Italian literary culture.

 It is the 16th edition of the National Fair for independent small and medium publishers, an event dedicated solely to promoting literature and encouraging smaller businesses to flourish in the Roman market. This year’s fair is the largest yet and has been moved to the prestigious La Nuvola building, designed by the established architectural duo Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas, to handle the influx of people. Over five days, there will be more than 550 events to attend. 

 The Counsellor for Culture and Youth Policies of Lazio, Lidia Ravera, has spoken on the ability of books to aid everyone: “the people who do not read should be helped as if they were sick because the book is an instrument to living better … yes, we are dreamers. And this is our place.”

 The event has been made possible by the work of the Italian Publishers Association (AIE), who hope to promote dialogue and discussion on the ways in which small editorial businesses can flourish.

Più libri, più liberi takes place Dec. 6 to Dec. 10

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