The Central Social Activities Fund (CCAS), which provides benefits to around 700,000 electricity and gas industry workers, has launched a program to support independent bookstores and improve book access for its members. In partnership with leslibraires.fr, a digital platform connecting over 400 independent bookstores, the CCAS covers 25% of the price of eligible books. These include titles from the Social Activities collection, new releases, children’s books, comics, manga, classics, and educational materials. The initiative also covers two-thirds of the mandatory 3 € shipping fee for orders under 35 €, reducing the cost for beneficiaries by 2 €. Members can opt for "click and collect," allowing them to pick up their orders at a local bookstore. The program aims to support independent bookstores, which have struggled with rising costs, thin profit margins, and competition from larger retailers. Damien Caprais, president of the Culture Committee, said the initiative reflects the values of the social and solidarity economy, which emphasizes community support, local employment, and cultural diversity. Anthony Juan, president of the CCAS, noted that the program continues a long-standing cultural policy that has existed for nearly 80 years, aiming to bring books and culture to a wider audience and treat them as a shared public good. A dedicated section of leslibraires.fr is accessible through the CCAS website, requiring just one login for convenience. The platform takes a 7% commission on each book sale, while the payment process is managed between the CCAS and the platform operator. Beneficiaries pay 75% of the book’s price, with the CCAS covering the remaining 25%. Thomas Le Bras, director of leslibraires.fr and president of its managing company, Kamael, reported a 30% rise in orders in September 2026, indicating the program's initial success. Despite these results, some challenges remain. Critics have pointed out that shipping costs for orders over 35 € are not covered, and some areas, like Metz, have limited "click and collect" points. However, the CCAS and leslibraires.fr are continuing to expand their partnership, aiming to strengthen the role of independent bookstores and improve cultural access for their members.