Reading is where we return to ourselves. Reading changes us, sometimes subtly, sometimes profoundly. It settles us and unsettles us at once. It is an act of presence. In contemporary society, it can even be an act of resistance. To read (no matter what one reads) is to claim time, attention, and freedom of thought. It is a statement. A call to responsibility: to nurture creation and protect freedom.

BOOK 2.0 2026 is an invitation to return to what matters.

Key trends are shaping the publishing sector today, from reading as a pillar of democracy and freedom to the need for strong national reading ecosystems. It will look at how books are evolving as lifestyle and cultural tools, the dynamics of the European publishing landscape, and new intersections such as fashion and literature, alongside the reinvention of libraries. Bringing together diverse perspectives, the session aims to help the entire ecosystem adapt to change and seize new opportunities to strengthen reading and its impact on society.

Diverse voices to explore reading and literacy as forces that shape individuals and society. From confronting violence, gender issues, and youth concerns to reflecting on democracy, rights, and public discourse, the programme highlights the role of reading in understanding and responding to today’s challenges. It will also move across disciplines, from the intersection of music and writing to deeper reflections on spirituality and consciousness, showing how stories and ideas connect across formats and experiences. The afternoon sessions will conclude with an address by President of Portugal, outlining a national vision for reading and literacy, reinforcing its importance as a cornerstone for the country’s cultural and social future.