Every June 15th, Argentina celebrates National Book Day, a date that invites us to reflect on the value of reading as an enduring expression of our history and culture.

The origins of this commemoration date back to 1924, when then-President Marcelo T. de Alvear designated June 15 as “Book Day” through Decree No. 1,038. The initiative arose in the context of the awards ceremony for a literary contest organized by the National Council of Women. Subsequently, on June 11, 1941, a resolution by the Ministry of Education changed its name and officially established the name “Book Day,” which remains in effect to this day.

Internationally, April 23rd is celebrated as World Book and Copyright Day, established by UNESCO in commemoration of the deaths of Miguel de Cervantes, William Shakespeare, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, central figures in the universal literary tradition.

The celebration of National Book Day takes on a meaning that goes beyond a symbolic tribute: it reaffirms the commitment to promoting reading as one of the pillars of cultural and educational development.