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Wondering what to read this summer? Look no further! The MEP Library Lovers group presents 60 Books for the Summer, a unique reading list showcasing excellent literary works from across Europe, as recommended by Members of European Parliament.

The first 60 Books for the Summer list was launched in 2016. Every edition since has highlighted the power of books whether it is to escape, to comfort, to learn, to inspire and to reflect.

The MEP Library Lovers group unites Members of European Parliament who are passionate about libraries, as well as books and reading and the important role they all play in building strong local communities. Now, members of the MEP Library Lovers Group share their personal recommendations on what needs to be on your reading list this summer. Literary triumphs, short stories, guilty pleasures – 60 Books for the Summer has something for every reader.

Reading enriches our lives, but it also hugely impacts on skills development and social inclusion. Reading should not be a luxury, it should be an activity for people of every age, education level, income level, ethnicity and physical ability – and yet 1 in 5 European citizens remain functionally illiterate. Europe’s 65,000 public libraries go a long way in encouraging a love of reading and developing both traditional and digital literacy skills.

Despite the challenges faced by public libraries in recent years, library staff across Europe remain committed to providing opportunities for people in their communities to get reading – both by ensuring online or adjusted physical access to book collections as well as maintaining the crucial human connection that librarians offer.

We’d like to thank all the Members of European Parliament who contributed reading recommendations to this year’s list, and especially to the co-chairs of the MEP Library Lovers group, Eva Maydell and Brando Benifei.