English Section

Polish publishers set to shine at Spanish book fair

04.10.2023 18:30
Poland takes center stage as the guest of honor at the 41st LIBER International Book Fair in Madrid this week.
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This notable event, primarily directed at publishing professionals rather than the reading public, alternates annually between Madrid and Barcelona, and is a key trade event in the Spanish and Latin American publishing industry calendar.

The LIBER Book Fair has a rich history, traditionally honoring countries from Latin America.

This important event solidifies a bridge between Polish literature and the Spanish-speaking world, ensuring a thriving cultural and literary exchange, according to officials.

The mission behind Poland’s spotlight is to strengthen the presence of Polish literature in the Hispanophone world, so as to promote and disseminate Polish publishers and authors, and forge new connections.

Anna Sroka, Poland's ambassador to Spain, expressed her enthusiasm: "We are very pleased with Poland's invitation as the guest of honor at LIBER, providing a chance to present new offerings of Polish authors and publishers to an international audience and industry representatives. LIBER is a fabulous opportunity to showcase the achievements and new trends in Polish literature."

Polish literature has already built a respectable reputation in the Spanish market with translations of works by authors such as Stanisław Lem, Andrzej Sapkowski, Wisława Szymborska, and Adam Zagajewski.

"Prominent presence at LIBER continues the momentum, especially following previous year’s already successful participation in Barcelona," according to officials. It reflects a coherent strategy aimed at amplifying the recognition of Polish creators and publishers in Spain and Latin America, they said.

Over 20 Polish exhibitors, ranging from major publishers such as Wydawnictwo Literackie and Wydawnictwo Poznańskie to smaller ones like Tytuł and ArtRage, are showing their wares at a 120-square-meter Polish stand, which also showcases literary agencies, printing houses, cultural institutions, and an e-book producer.

The fair introduces the Spanish version of the catalog “New Books from Poland,” featuring 28 Polish books published in the last year, including novels, short story collections, non-fiction literature, and comics.

Further, Poland's Instytut Książki (Book Institute) and the Polish Institute in Madrid have organized a series of engaging cultural events to promote Polish children’s literature, among other genres.

A separate catalog showcasing Polish children's books is also available to visitors.

The 41st LIBER International Book Fair runs in Madrid from October 4 to 6.

(rt/gs)

Source: PAP