Bookstores will remain open even in red zones: book is essential good

A meager consolation for all Italians living in the regions that, as of Monday, will enter the red zone (Campania, Emilia-Romagna, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Lazio, Lombardy, Marche, Molise, Piedmont, Apulia, Veneto, and Trentino), which means, in practice, lockdown almost similar to a March 2020: a year has passed since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic but little has changed in the Italian response to the virus. Among the few changes, however, is theopening of bookstores: stores that sell books will be able to remain open, including bookstores that operate in shopping malls. Customers will therefore be able to reach the nearest bookstore by self-certification, just as they do when they go shopping or, in general, go out for reasons of proven need. Indeed, the book is recognized as an essential good.

“Given the confusion between businesses, citizens and the media,” recalls ALI - Associazione Librai Italiani, a leading trade association, “even in the red zone, bookstores, including those in shopping centers, can remain open. Customers can then reach the one closest to them with self-certification, on a par with all other activities indicated as essential.” For booksellers, opening is optional and must be done, of course, in compliance with anti-Covid safety measures: physical spacing, use of masks, sanitizing hands with disinfectant gel. Bookstores can also continue home deliveries.

“This is thanks to that choice that ALI - Confcommercio has always supported with great determination,” says Paolo Ambrosini, president of ALI, “and which has made Italy an example at the European level, so dear readers, in these days that are still required of us to sacrifice come to our bookstores, come and choose a good book, because a good book is a great companion even in the most difficult moments.”

Pictured: a bookstore. Ph. Credit Italian Booksellers Association

Bookstores will remain open even in red zones: book is essential good

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