For the president of the Associação Portuguesa de Editores e Livreiros (APEL), Pedro Sobral, who organises the fair, it “plays a crucial role in inspiring a love of reading, especially among younger people”.

“Through the celebration of literature, we create opportunities for new generations to fall in love with stories, develop their imagination and build a culturally richer future”, added Pedro Sobral.

This year, a desire to expand the fair’s perimeter in 2024 was expressed, to respond to members’ request for more pavilions.

“We are studying with the city of Lisbon this growth, which could reach up to twenty or thirty in more pavilions”, said Pedro Sobral.

Sobral stated that in the 93rd edition of the event there were “more people buying books”.

“A lot of young people weren’t going for a walk, but looking for a certain type of book and certain writers. The second phenomenon is that of more than a fair, but a great book festival that attracts many of those who do not read”, declared Sobral.