Spain’s coronavirus crisis sees yet another cultural victim with the cancellation of Madrid’s famous “Feria del Libro” which was due to take place in May. The 79th edition of the event will now take place in the autumn with the provisional dates of 2nd - 18th October in Madrid’s Retiro park.
The organisers have released a statement in which the director of the fair, Manuel Gil, explained: "We have chosen October because it is far enough away from the current pandemic. We also contemplated holding the event in July or September". The first option, according to Gil, was rejected because of the Summer heat in Madrid where temperatures often reach up to 40 degrees. The second option of September was also dismissed as this would coincide with the return to school and is generally a time when there is more stress on family budgets.
Publishers, booksellers and distributors are expressing their concern in the midst of the current situation, given that all businesses of this type have also been closed in the coronavirus lockdown and warn that, if it is prolonged, the effects of this new crisis may be similar to those of the great recession and lead to the closure of many businesses.
The organisers of the Feria del Libro, which can account for 20-30% of annual turnover for some sellers, have promised to do all within their power to make the event happen, while taking all the necessary precautions to prevent further spread of the disease. They have emphasised the importance of the event for local sellers which, last year, saw sales figures of 10 million euros, a 14% increase compared to 2018. If the situation has not improved by September, they have stated that other measures will be taken and other options explored.
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