On March 11, 2025, France Inter launched the "Quarter Hour of Reading" initiative aimed at promoting the importance of reading among the French population. Augustin Trapenard, the presenter of the literary magazine "La Grande librairie" on France 5, was invited to discuss this initiative, emphasizing the value of taking time out of one’s busy day to read, even for just 15 minutes. He remarked, "It is extremely important to defend reading today. Reading is a luxury, especially now when time is so limited." Trapenard pointed out the alarming trend of decreasing reading habits among young people aged 15 to 24, stating, "There is real concern for the future of this art."
During the event, Trapenard discussed how literature has personally enriched his life. "I grew up around books, and they helped me and brought me happiness. The 'strange, solitary child' I was was saved by literature," he shared. "I believe everyone can access this if we take this luxury. A quarter of an hour!" He highlighted the need to "carry literature" now more than ever, noting data from the National Book Center indicating 86% of French people identify as readers. Yet, he expressed worries about the declining engagement with literature among youth.
To reinforce this launch, France Inter dedicated its programming on March 11 to reading, with texts read on the air every hour starting at 10 AM. Alongside Trapenard, other notable figures participated, including William Marx, historian of literature and professor at the Collège de France; Clara Dupont-Monod, editor and columnist on France Inter; and Sandrine Mini, director of Editions Syros and Editions L'Agrume. They were guests on a debate reflecting on the current state and future of literature and reading culture.
Daniel Morin, another notable French personality on air, contributed to the day by reading texts throughout the day to celebrate reading and inspire listeners. This special reading day aimed to remind everyone of the importance of literature and how it shapes empathy, awareness, and sensitivity within society.
The discussions included the challenges faced by modern literature, the strategies needed to uplift reading among younger generations, and highlighting how literature uniquely enriches our cultural fabric. Trapenard's call to action resonates particularly during times of digital distractions where 'everything seems urgent,' urging the public to reclaim their time for reading as not just important but necessary.
This initiative and celebrations on France Inter aim to invigorate interest in literature amid the fast-paced society, appealing to both seasoned readers and those who might have drifted away from the printed word. With the right engagement from cultural figures and organizations, there is hope for fostering renewed appreciation for reading.
Reading is not just seen as entertainment or luxury but as an enriching experience capable of developing one's empathy, cultivating imagination, and deepening one’s connection to the world. "Literature will always endure," Trapenard concluded, urging everyone to embrace books as conduits for personal growth and reflection. The "Quarter Hour of Reading" initiative serves as both a reminder and motivation to pick up the book, indulge for just 15 minutes, and rediscover the joys of reading.
With these cultural touchpoints and communal efforts, the future of reading can remain vibrant and appealing even for digital natives. Engaging reading programs, especially for the youth, will be pivotal for maintaining the literary heritage and fostering connections between generations through shared stories.
Today’s world offers urgent distractions, yet the mere act of pausing and getting lost between the pages of literature can be transformative. The observance of this national initiative holds the promise of rekindling the love for stories, one quarter-hour at a time.