France is holding a nationwide event called Biblis en folie to update and promote its libraries, with about 3,000 activities planned across the country until Sunday. These events include "reading parties," a term originally from English that has become popular in France. During these gatherings, people come together to read silently, either the same book or different ones, and sometimes share thoughts afterward. The idea began in English-speaking countries and has grown in France, with some events attracting hundreds of people. Publishers, museums, and local governments regularly host these events to encourage more reading, especially among younger people. On Friday afternoon, the Ministry of Culture invited readers to the garden of the Palais-Royal for a "giant reading party." For the first time, the usually restricted parterre area will be open to the public. Attendees can listen to readings by actors or read quietly on loungers and poufs. According to the ministry, France has one of the most extensive library systems in the world, with 15,500 libraries. In 2025, library visits increased by 18% compared to 2023, reaching 146 million total entries. Across 64% of these libraries, 282 million documents, including 246 million books, were borrowed for free. The libraries, which employ 29,000 public sector workers, have also organized around 593,000 cultural events, 25,000 exhibitions, and 3,500 festivals. These activities aim to engage the public with literature and culture, offering a wide range of experiences beyond traditional reading. The Biblis en folie initiative reflects a broader effort to make libraries more appealing and relevant in the modern era, emphasizing their role as community hubs for learning and social interaction. The event also highlights the evolving role of libraries, which are no longer just places for borrowing books but also spaces for cultural enrichment. By hosting diverse activities, libraries are trying to attract a wider audience and ensure their continued relevance in a digital age. The success of Biblis en folie suggests that such efforts may be helping to reverse the decline in book reading, especially among younger generations.