At the invitation of Mazarine Billard, the originator of the Étampes Book Fair, elected officials, partners, and patrons gathered this Tuesday, October 13, in the salons of the Hôtel de Ville to get a preview of the next edition's ambitions. In the presence of local figures such as Guy Crosnier, Vice-President of the Departmental Council, Gilles Bayart, Mayor of Étampes, and Benoît Vidon, sub-prefect, this evening served to thank the stakeholders of this cultural event.
The 5th edition of the fair, to be held on March 13 and 14, 2027, at the Salle des Fêtes, already announces the participation of over 60 authors from diverse literary backgrounds. Among the guests is British writer Anna Stuart, known for her Women at War series. Meetings, discoveries, and exchanges will punctuate this event open to all reading enthusiasts. As every year, a raffle will support a charitable association; the 2027 edition will provide financial aid to AMH (Amputé Mais Heureux - Amputated But Happy).
The 2027 edition will place a particular emphasis on cultural mediation with schools. While 11 classes hosted authors in 2026, 60 classes will benefit from meetings with writers in 2027, thanks to the collaboration of the Communauté d’agglomération de l’Étampois Sud-Essonne and surrounding communes. « From the age of 3, children will be able to discover authors, discuss books, and develop a taste for reading », explains Mazarine Billard.
This evening also provided an opportunity to present projects and support needs for the fair's development. The commitment of partners and patrons is considered essential to strengthen its local roots. « We need committed partners by our side. I invite all companies and individuals who wish to become patrons and contribute to this wonderful cultural adventure to contact me », concluded Mazarine Billard, emphasizing that « every support counts in bringing reading and author encounters to life in our territory ».
