Quinzaine du Livre Jeunesse

Quinzaine du Livre Jeunesse in Tours

The Quinzaine du Livre Jeunesse is one of the oldest and most important events promoting youth literature in Indre-et-Loire. Created in 1971 by the Ligue de l'Enseignement – Fédération d'Indre-et-Loire (FOL 37), it has evolved over the decades to become a must-attend event for families, teachers, and book professionals.

A history of over fifty years

In its early days, the event lasted only a week and circulated in 8 reading points. In 1972, the bookmobile allowed the selection to be distributed throughout the department. It was in 1975 that the event expanded to fifteen days and took the name Quinzaine du Livre Jeunesse. Today, five reading committees composed of book professionals, teachers, and enthusiasts select around 350 books from the approximately 8,000 published each year.

The highlight at the City Hall

Every year in October, the highlight of the Quinzaine takes place at the Tours City Hall over a weekend. The program includes meetings with authors and illustrators, book signings, book exhibitions and sales, young audience shows, games, creative workshops, and fun activities. The event is free and open to all audiences.

A departmental initiative

Since 2020, the Quinzaine du Livre Jeunesse selection circulates among more than 130 structures (libraries, schools, leisure centers) throughout the school year, from late September to mid-June. This initiative reaches thousands of children and families across the entire Indre-et-Loire department, contributing to early literacy and the discovery of quality books.

A commitment to reading

Driven by the values of the Ligue de l'Enseignement, the Quinzaine du Livre Jeunesse works to ensure everyone has access to demanding and diverse youth literature. The event brings together authors, illustrators, publishers, booksellers, librarians, and teachers around a common goal: to instill a love of reading in young people.