An open-air book fair in Parc St-Sébastien in Rians
Here, there are no queues for book signings or stalls lined up under neon lights. In Rians, culture takes center stage in the open air, in a park, and reaches out to the public. The book fair in motion, organized by the association La tribu de l'encre fraîche, breaks the mold and proves that reading can bring people together in rural areas, too.
Since last year, this unusual event has been shaking up the codes of the traditional literary fair. "I used to participate in fairs where authors sit behind their tables, hailing passersby. It quickly becomes overwhelming for the public as well as for us," says Laurent Maero, president of the association and an author for four years. The principle here: no fixed stands, but spaces spread throughout the park where authors, readers, and artisans meet and chat.
A living room in motion and in the open airReading excerpts under the trees, workshops with book artisans, or musical entertainment, the public wanders freely between the different points of the site. A reading space allows you to listen to the authors interpret their texts. "It's a more convivial formula, which creates a closeness. Visitors feel involved, they chat more easily with us," emphasizes Michel Cherchi, author of thrillers, who is participating in this fair for the first time.
While the relaxed atmosphere and variety of offerings are appealing, the challenge goes beyond mere festivities. "Culture in rural areas is essential but fragile," says Laurent Maero. "There are offerings and associations that bring this region to life, but often the public doesn't come or disperses when several events are taking place at the same time."
To reach a wider audience, the association is focusing on breaking down barriers. Literature, crafts, music: the fair aims to unite around books by building bridges. "We also need to attract those who aren't readers. If we offer them music, they'll come out of curiosity, and maybe leave with a book," hopes the president. Communication remains another challenge. Posters, local radio, and author profiles published online punctuate the promotion of the event. The goal: to mobilize the residents of Rians and surrounding villages. "The idea is to open up to other communities next year, but we'll need money," sighs Laurent Maero. In a context where bookstores are closing and reading is struggling to compete with screens, this kind of initiative helps maintain a vibrant cultural connection. "Transmitting culture is a desire. It starts in childhood, by making them want to read, not by forcing them," insists Michel Cherchi. Here, far from big cities and prestigious fairs, enthusiasts are organizing themselves so that culture continues to circulate and exist.
The salon is open all weekend, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Var-Matin
