

World Book Day
World Book and Copyright Day, launched in 1996, is celebrated on 23 April under the patronage of UNESCO. The date chosen is that of the death, in 1616, of three writers who are considered to be pillars of universal culture: Miguel de Cervantes, William Shakespeare and Garcilaso de la Vega. The aim of the Day is to promote reading, the publication of books and the protection of intellectual property through copyright. The anniversary has been celebrated in Spain, and particularly in Catalonia, since 1926, when – coupled with a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages – it became the Day of Books and Roses when all booksellers give a rose with each book purchased.