Tàrrega launches Reading Promotion Plan as a tool for social inclusion and cohesion

The project, led by the Germanes Güell Public Library, establishes lines of action until 2029 to ensure universal access to books.

A stack of books in different formats on a table, symbolizing access to reading.
IA

A stack of books in different formats on a table, symbolizing access to reading.

The Tàrrega City Council, through the Germanes Güell Public Library, has presented the Reading Promotion Plan, a roadmap until 2029 to guarantee access to books as a basic right and a tool for social cohesion.

The plan, which has the support of the Department of Culture of the Generalitat, has been developed based on an exhaustive analysis of the social, economic, and cultural reality of the capital of Urgell. This study was carried out by the sociologist and writer Jaume Barrull Castellví, who worked with sector professionals to detect shortcomings and opportunities. The main objective is to ensure that reading reaches all citizens, regardless of age, origin, or abilities.

"We want reading to be a meeting place and not a barrier. This implies adapting formats, languages, and spaces so that no one is left out."

Laura Tejero · Tàrrega Culture Councillor
One of the fundamental pillars of the plan is the consideration of reading as a basic right. To improve accessibility, specific actions are planned, such as the use of Easy Reading materials, the incorporation of audiobooks, and the organization of shared reading activities in day centers and residences, often led by young people from the municipality.
The document places special emphasis on the children and adolescent age group, where a progressive loss of the reading habit has been observed. Proposals include reinforcing school libraries and transforming the Public Library into a more attractive space for young people, with dedicated zones, creative contests, and activities linked to new formats and digital languages.
Finally, the plan seeks to place reading at the center of civic life, beyond cultural facilities. It aims to reclaim local literary heritage, with the writer Manuel de Pedrolo as a reference figure, and to give greater visibility to Tàrrega's bookselling network. Ideas include setting up reading points in everyday spaces, such as waiting rooms, or promoting a local book fair.