France's National Book Center faces potential dissolution in 2027 as Senate bill proposes transferring its role to the central government, sparking fierce opposition from the literary community.
CNL faces potential dissolution in 2027
A bill under consideration in the Senate could lead to the dissolution of the National Book Center (CNL) by 2027. Senators Pauline Martin and Mathieu Darnaud are proposing to transfer the CNL's responsibilities to the central administration, arguing that this would streamline resources and reduce costs.CNL's role in promoting books and reading
The CNL, an independent agency partly funded by the state, supports reading and literary culture through festivals, grants, and funding for authors, translators, publishers, and bookstores. It also connects schools with authors for workshops and master classes.Industry opposition to the proposed bill
Following a hearing with CNL officials Régine Hatchondo and Olivier Lombardie, the SNE, Charte, League of Professional Writers, and SGDL have strongly opposed the bill. They warn that dissolving the CNL would threaten literary creation and diversity in the book industry.Concerns over centralized funding control
The CNL's funding decisions are made by thematic committees of professionals from the book industry. If these responsibilities shift to the ministry, funding decisions would be made by officials tied to the current government, potentially leading to the rejection of innovative projects based on political influence.Students protest for education equality
High school students have been protesting for weeks to demand greater equality in higher education access. During a demonstration on October 17, they used humor and culturally referenced slogans, despite tear gas. A 2023 study noted a decline in youth reading, but their enthusiasm for learning and creativity remains strong.
