Malta Book Festival 2026 Promotes Reading and Supports Local Authors and Publishers
The Malta Book Festival 2026 is bringing together book lovers, authors and publishers at the Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre (MFCC) in Ta' Qali from 4 to 8 November.
Organised by the National Book Council, the festival is one of Malta's major events dedicated to books and literature. This year's edition, held under the theme “Uncover the Story”, is attracting thousands of visitors and features around 50 exhibitors alongside renowned international guests.
The festival provides an important platform for Malta's literary and publishing sectors while encouraging people of all ages to discover new books and develop a lasting interest in reading.
Book Vouchers for Children and Young People
One of the festival's key initiatives is the book voucher scheme for children and young people aged five to 16, allowing them to purchase books during the event.
The initiative is intended to encourage reading among younger generations while supporting books produced by Maltese authors and publishers.
The Government has committed to continuing the scheme annually as part of its Int Malta electoral programme, with the aim of strengthening the local book industry and encouraging more children to read.
Encouraging a Love of Reading
Minister for Youth, Wellbeing and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme Omar Farrugia visited the festival and welcomed the enthusiasm shown by children and young people attending with their families, friends and schools.
“It is a pleasure to be present at the Malta Book Festival and to see children and young people coming here with their families, friends and schools, showing their love for books and reading,” Minister Farrugia said.
He emphasised the responsibility of adults to encourage children to appreciate books and develop reading habits from an early age.
Free Entry and Activities for All Ages
National Book Council Chief Executive Mark Camilleri said the festival is free to attend and accessible to everyone.
He explained that children can redeem their book vouchers with any participating exhibitor throughout the five-day event.
The programme also includes interviews with Maltese and international authors, theatrical performances and other literary activities designed to engage visitors of different ages and interests.
Supporting Malta's Publishing Industry
Beyond encouraging reading, the festival provides opportunities for local authors and publishers to showcase their work, reach new audiences and strengthen Malta's literary community.
Organisers say initiatives such as the annual book voucher scheme help support Maltese creative talent while reinforcing the importance of reading in education, personal development and cultural participation.
Source: Government press release PR261868.
Photo: DOI / Daniel Scicluna.
