The Books' May

A widespread celebration of reading in the heart of the Marche

The Books' May in Camerata Picena is the local version of the major national campaign promoted by the Centre for Books and Reading (Cepell) of the Ministry of Culture. Every year, from April 23rd - World Book and Copyright Day - to May 31st, thousands of municipalities, schools, and libraries across Italy organize initiatives to bring people of all ages closer to reading. Camerata Picena, a small municipality in the Province of Ancona nestled in the Marche countryside, participates with a rich calendar of events coordinated by the "Raul Bartoli" Municipal Library.

"Every book is a living creature"

The 2026 edition, the sixteenth nationally, had the theme "Every book is a living creature", inspired by the Canticle of the Creatures by Saint Francis of Assisi. Just as the Canticle recognizes every element of creation as a brother or sister, so the book is presented as a creature that breathes, speaks, and accompanies the different seasons of life. A poetic image that in Camerata Picena translated into stories, readings aloud, moments of poetry, and theatrical proposals designed for adults and children.

The program and the protagonists

The heart of the event is the "Raul Bartoli" Library, housed in a small historic building opposite the Town Hall, in Piazza Vittorio Veneto. The library is particularly attentive to children and young people and carries out projects dedicated to promoting reading throughout the year. During The Books' May, the program alternates:

• readings aloud and activities for children and families;
• poetry and storytelling encounters for adult readers;
• theatrical proposals and workshops;
• initiatives carried out in collaboration with local schools.

The complete calendar, with events, times, and guests, is distributed each year through the official poster and the channels of the Municipality of Camerata Picena.

A reading community

More than a single event, The Books' May in Camerata Picena is an opportunity to strengthen the bond between the library, school, and community. The event is part of the vibrant cultural life of the Marche village and helps to make reading a shared experience, capable of engaging all generations. Admission to the events is free, in line with the inclusive spirit of the national campaign promoted throughout the Marche Region and the rest of Italy.