The Jaume Fuster library has achieved something that few libraries do: it has become a true cultural and educational hub in Barcelona. This year, its influence and commitment to the promotion of reading have been formally recognized by receiving the Liber 2025 Award for the best initiative to promote reading in libraries open to the public. This award, given by the Federation of Publishers’ Guilds of Spain, underscores the crucial role that this library plays in the cultural life of the city.
Unwavering support for the love of reading
The Liber 2025 Award not only celebrates the importance of the library at the local level, but also its ability to establish effective synergies with educational institutions. This ability to join forces has cemented its reputation as a bridge between knowledge and the community. Collaboration with local schools and universities has been key to fostering the habit of reading from an early age, and clearly, their efforts have paid off.
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The presentation of this prestigious award is scheduled for October 9, at the Conde Duque Cultural Center, coinciding with the numerous activities of the International Book Fair, Liber 2025, in Madrid. This event, which will take place from October 7 to 9, will serve as an ideal platform to highlight the importance of promoting reading in times when digital connection tries to overshadow printed words.
History and legacy: a tribute to the illustrious Jaume Fuster
The library, which honors the celebrated writer, screenwriter and cultural activist Jaume Fuster, was inaugurated in 2005. This year marked an important confluence of events with the celebration of the city’s Year of the Book and Reading. Projected as Barcelona’s 29th public library, the Jaume Fuster library represents not only a building, but a social and cultural innovation born of a collective effort with the residents of Plaza Lesseps.
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This space was one of the first projects of the then young Consortium of Libraries of Barcelona, which had begun its work in 2001. Its strategic location in the district of Gràcia makes it an essential nexus of culture and education, as vital today as it was in its beginnings.
A versatile and quality space
What makes the Jaume Fuster Library truly special is its ability to adapt to the changing needs of the community. Since its opening, it has been able to maximize its potential by offering extended opening hours, first-rate facilities, and an extensive collection of resources. It quickly positioned itself as one of the most visited libraries, attracting both locals and visitors.
With its own 250-seat auditorium and dedicated exhibition hall, the library has become an epicenter of cultural activity. Its focus on providing a space for exhibitions and literary events makes it indispensable for book lovers, writers, publishers and readers alike.
Meeting point for the literary community
The library has also gained notoriety as a place where prominent authors can connect with their audience. Events organized in collaboration with local publishers and bookstores have allowed for the presentation and dissemination of new works, offering readers the opportunity to interact directly with their favorite authors.
Each year, the library also hosts important tributes to the publishing industry through its retrospective exhibitions, strengthening the relationship between literary production and the public.
A promising future
Looking at all that the Jaume Fuster Library has achieved, it is clear that this award is a well-deserved recognition of its continuous effort and adaptation to the changing cultural environment. This distinction is not only a reason to celebrate, but also a push to continue innovating and enriching future generations of readers.
The Jaume Fuster library has known how to adapt and grow along with its community, demonstrating that words and stories will continue to be fundamental pillars of our culture.
