Publishing sector promotes initiative to build public book policy

Professionals in Mexico's publishing sector are rallying behind an initiative demanding the urgent creation of a federal public policy for books. Under the banner "Todos somos ERA" (We are all ERA), they express deep concern over the absence of a dedicated federal agency responsible for book promotion and the development of a comprehensive policy to strengthen the book industry and reading culture in Mexico.

In a letter addressed to the public and circulated among writers, editors, designers, translators, illustrators, distributors, librarians, and readers, the signatories highlight increasing difficulties in producing, distributing, and accessing books. The recent closure of Ediciones Era, a prominent independent publisher, is cited as a stark example of the consequences of this policy vacuum and the precarious state of the book market.

The initiative argues that access to books, reading, culture, and knowledge should not be solely dependent on market forces. It asserts that the state has a responsibility, grounded in the right to culture and cultural expression for all individuals, to ensure these elements are accessible. The letter points to the disappearance of publishing houses and bookstores, and the reduction of spaces for book circulation, as realities that demand state intervention.

Signatories note the "gradual deterioration of the book industry in Mexico" over recent years. The closure of Ediciones Era, founded 66 years ago, is deemed an "alarm signal" that reflects a broader problem affecting the entire book chain. While other countries actively promote their publishing industries and reader engagement, Mexico faces a "progressively worrying scenario."

The initiative emphasizes the importance of bibliodiversity, the availability of a wide range of authors, ideas, genres, and content for the broadest possible audience, as a crucial expression of a democratic society. They conclude that defending the book, in any format, is synonymous with defending culture, diversity of thought, and everyone's right to read. The letter remains open for signatures from all members of Mexico's book sector until September 2.