Cuba to host International Book Fair in August amid exceptional circumstances

Cuba is set to host its 34th International Book Fair from August 10-16, a significant cultural event that the nation is determined to hold even under challenging conditions. The fair, originally scheduled for February, will now take place at the Estación Cultural de Línea y 18 in Havana, a more central location than its usual venue at La Cabaña, which will be revisited when circumstances permit.

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It will be an extraordinary effort.

Juan Rodríguez Cabrera, president of the Cuban Institute of the Book, emphasized the extraordinary effort involved, especially coinciding with the centenary of Fidel Castro. He highlighted the country's will to maintain its most important cultural event, supported by writers, creators, and institutions, and eagerly anticipated by readers across the island. This commitment persists despite what the article describes as an "siege" and difficult conditions, underscoring the nation's dedication to book production and cultural dissemination.

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It is the will of the country, despite being under siege, to maintain its most important cultural event.

Russia will once again be the Guest of Honor, with Ambassador Victor Koronelli confirming their participation despite the "unjust and criminal" U.S. blockade against Cuba. Russian books have already arrived and will be gifted to Cuba. This edition is dedicated to writer Marilyn Bobes and social sciences laureate José Bell Lara.

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Today, in very difficult conditions, books are being made in Cuba, so that the Fair is not just about inventories.

The fair plans to distribute approximately four million copies and over 3,000 digital titles. Traditional spaces like the Children's Pavilion and the Professional Book Hall will be maintained. To ensure broader access, the fair will extend to other Havana municipalities on subsequent weekends and will tour the rest of the country from August 21 to September 6.

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unjust and criminal blockade