Let’s get closer to books

“The book is strength, it is courage, it is power, it is food; torch of thought, and source of love “.

Books contribute to the development of imagination and creativity, stimulate curiosity, enrich vocabulary and oral and written expression; they also allow people to enjoy and have fun. In this sense, bookstores are committed to playing a substantial role in promoting the habit of reading and integrating into the cultural life of the community.The Punto y Coma bookstore in San Antonio de los Baños maintains its work regarding the promotion of books and reading.

Susana Pérez, bookseller of the cultural center, explains that they go monthly to the schools with the aim of marketing varied themes and genres. They are also responsible for the presentation of books, on the ocassion of different anniversaries. The workers of this cultural institution visit La Encrucijada and San Paul communities, twice a week to support book presentations. Susana Pérez added that they also participate every year in the editions of the International Book Fair in Artemisa and Mayabeque.

The influence of the family will also be decisive in forming competent readers capable of developing the practice of reading not only during the school period but throughout their lives. Visiting bookstores could be part of the family’s usual activities. This will help, mainly children and young people, to discover new possibilities of reading that they probably do not know. From these spaces, the habit of reading, so important to cultivate our intellect, improve cognitive function and improve our language,  is promoted.