This event, supported by the Almería City Council through its Culture Department, the Provincial Council via the Almerian Studies Institute, and the Junta de Andalucía with the Andalusian Center of Letters, features a program with over twenty events and nearly a hundred author signings.
Among the initial highlights, writer Ana María Romero Yebra delivered the opening address. Additionally, the book Las bombas de Palomares 60 años después by Francisco Laynez Bretones was presented. Various representatives from the sponsoring institutions visited the fair during its opening hours.
“"I encourage the people of Almería to come and enjoy the Fair, to ask the booksellers, to meet the authors, to let themselves be surprised by reading, or to look for that book they've been thinking about for the past few weeks."
Mayor María del Mar Vázquez emphasized the fair's consolidation in April and its location on Federico García Lorca Avenue, a space that accommodates over 30 stalls and a presentation area. Meanwhile, the Government delegate, Aránzazu Martín, highlighted the importance of reading as a tool for knowledge and critical thinking, noting the diverse program including literary encounters and cultural activities, as well as the Exlibris exhibition at the Francisco Villaespesa Public Library.
The Vice President and Deputy for Culture, Cinema, and Almerian Identity, Almudena Morales, underscored the participation of the Almerian Studies Institute with a stand and activities for all ages, especially children, featuring presentations like Guía de recetas almerienses para niños by Antonio Zapata and Cuentos desde mi reino by Concha Castro.
“"My love for reading and books is what has possibly led me to become a writer. And I especially care for those aimed at children because they are the quarry of future readers."
The director of the Book Fair, Manuel García Iborra, coordinating the event for the tenth time in Almería, stressed the effort to offer a variety of activities for all types of readers, including children. Writer Ana María Romero Yebra, in her opening speech, recalled the fair's origins and the importance of fostering reading from childhood, encouraging people to enjoy books not only during the event but continuously.
The stalls will be open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM from Tuesday to Friday, and from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday. In the afternoons, hours are from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily until Sunday, April 19.
