“All You Can Read”: A Reading Celebration for Europe Day

On the occasion of Europe Day, celebrated every year on 9 May to commemorate peace and unity in Europe and the historic beginning of European integration, EUROPE DIRECT Vesuvian Area turned the occasion into a vibrant community event. A Europe that is close to its citizens is a Europe that promotes culture, intercultural dialogue and social participation. It was in this spirit that “All You Can Read”, a major celebration of reading and discovery, was created. The initiative was organised in collaboration with the Sac. Giovanni Alagi Municipal Library of San Giorgio a Cremano and the association La Bottega delle Parole, the long-standing promoter of the Libri al Kilo format.

Alongside the central role of books, the aim was to engage the local community through themed games, information stands and publications highlighting opportunities offered by the European Union. Hundreds of citizens took part, bringing bags and backpacks to choose from hundreds of high-quality second-hand books. The books could be purchased through the event’s simple and original pay-by-weight system, at just €5 per kilogram. There were also some impressive performances by true “super readers”: the most memorable was our own Rosario, who, carried away by his enthusiasm, went home with an astonishing 10 kilograms of books!

Against this backdrop of turning pages, social interaction and great enthusiasm, the event showcased a Europe that is close to its people — a Europe capable of creating opportunities for people to meet, connect and share their passion for reading.