The regional government of Castilla-La Mancha has urged citizens to take advantage of the resources offered by public libraries, which serve as cultural hubs for people of all ages and interests. Rosa María García, the regional delegate in Guadalajara, expressed her gratitude towards library staff, recognising them as cultural facilitators within their communities and promoters of reading habits.
This appreciation was evident during a visit to the 'Manu Leguineche' Library in Brihuega, where García acknowledged the dedication of librarian Paloma Raso, who has been promoting cultural activities in the municipality for 38 years. Accompanied by Brihuega's mayor, Luis Viejo, and the regional delegate for Education, Culture and Sports, Ángel Fernández-Montes, García explored various activities offered at the municipal library, which includes children's and adult reading areas, as well as spaces for initiatives like a reading club.
On 24 October, the Day of Libraries will be celebrated, with the Castilla-La Mancha government reaffirming its support for these cultural centres, particularly in rural areas. García highlighted that libraries are places for enjoyment, learning, sharing, and inspiration, significantly impacting the daily lives of local communities.
She stated, “Each corner of a library holds a story, and every book opens a door to new worlds,” encouraging the public to engage with reading and the activities provided by libraries. The provincial delegate underscored that “a library is much more than a place to borrow books; it is where generations meet, connections are made, and community is built through activities, especially in rural libraries.”
In a world increasingly reliant on digital connectivity, García noted, “There are networks that do not require the internet to connect us, and one of them is built between books, people, and conversations.”
On 24 September, the Official Gazette of Castilla-La Mancha published a resolution from the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports, announcing funding for 31 municipal public libraries in Guadalajara. These grants aim to enhance the quality of library services, improve public access to cultural resources, and promote reading habits. The funding can be used for hiring staff, acquiring new bibliographic materials, launching reading promotion activities, or upgrading facilities.
Additionally, the provincial delegation provides ongoing technical support and advice to municipal libraries in Guadalajara, contributing to the continuous improvement of their services. The Blanca Calvo Public Library, managed by the regional government, is also preparing a special programme to celebrate the Day of Libraries, featuring events such as a charity book fair, talks, book presentations, and exhibitions.
Throughout October, applications are open for participation in the popular 'Noche Mágica' (Magic Night) event at the Blanca Calvo Library, which offers children an evening filled with surprises. Furthermore, the regional government operates a network of Bibliobuses, mobile libraries that bring books to small municipalities lacking their own libraries, ensuring access to reading materials across the province. Residents of these smaller towns will have the opportunity to engage in storytelling sessions, oral narration, printing and stamping workshops, and other reading promotion activities in the coming days.
