Every March 31, Cuban culture reflects on a milestone that shaped the course of reading and human development on the island: the creation of the National Printing Office of Cuba in 1959.

Officially established in 1981 as Cuban Book Day, the date not only commemorates the founding of this publishing institution but also marks the beginning of a cultural policy born with the triumph of the Revolution. This vision was memorably expressed by Fidel Castro: "We do not tell the people: believe! We tell them: read!"

That pivotal year of 1959 also stands out for bringing books into the hands of the public. This became possible through the founding of the National Printing Office under Law 187, with Alejo Carpentier serving as its first director.

The mission of the newly established institution was clear: to democratize access to knowledge and make reading an everyday right.

From its very first publication, "The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha," to modern digital initiatives promoted through events such as the International Book Fair, Cuba has demonstrated—according to its Ministry of Foreign Affairs—an unwavering commitment to universal access to reading.

Translated by Sergio A. Paneque Díaz / CubaSí Translation Staff