Manolo Patrocinio denies lack of reading habits in the Dominican Republic
Within the framework of the 2026 International Book Fair, Manolo Patrocinio, owner of Libro Reliquias, raised his voice to defend the national literary landscape. Contrary to the popular belief that there is little interest in reading in the country, the businessman asserted that a large part of the population, with a notable emphasis on the youth, maintains a solid bond with books.
During the second day of the country’s most important cultural event, Patrocinio highlighted the significant turnout of the public. Although he described the initial commercial activity as average, he remained optimistic about the development of the coming days, maintaining hope that the flow of visitors and literary transactions will increase as the fair progresses.
A wonderful experience, because this is our world, the world of culture, the world of education, the world of books.
Manolo Patrocinio
Youth as a driving force for reading
To support his stance, Patrocinio shared his direct experience with the reading community. He mentioned as an example a WhatsApp group that includes nearly 250 people, where students, collectors, and young enthusiasts who seek to expand their personal libraries converge.
- Interest in classical literature and novels is trending among young audiences on social media.
- The perception that Dominicans do not read is a myth that, according to the bookseller, must be eradicated.
- Constant interaction in cultural spaces demonstrates that there is a solid base of readers in the country.
It is not true that Dominicans do not read; some do not read.
Manolo Patrocinio
With a positive attitude toward the remaining days of the 2026 International Book Fair, the owner of Libro Reliquias reaffirmed his commitment to promoting reading, confident that the event will consolidate citizens’ interest in the publishing world.
