Ali Smith and Han Kang praise power of books and libraries ahead of Sant Jordi

As Barcelona prepares for Sant Jordi, authors Ali Smith and Han Kang, though speaking at separate events, share a common message on the lasting importance of books, libraries, and literature. 

Ahead of her Sant Jordi 2026 literature speech in Barcelona, Scottish author Ali Smith said the celebration could inspire cities around the world. Describing the day as "beautiful and exciting," she hopes the tradition of gifting books and roses will "spread" globally, praising the Catalan capital as a place that truly "celebrates books."

Smith's visit comes during a week of protests by Barcelona's library workers. Drawing comparisons with the United Kingdom, she warned that libraries "should never be in danger," describing them as spaces "open to knowledge."

She added that negotiations are "necessary" and reiterated the importance of defending libraries, noting that many in the United Kingdom have disappeared due to funding problems.

Calling libraries the "brain of the world", she described them as places that safeguard centuries of "accumulated knowledge."

Smith is set to deliver the Sant Jordi proclamation at 6 p.m. at the historic council chamber, the 'Saló de Cent', in Barcelona City Hall. She will also speak with her Catalan translator, Dolors Udina, about her work and the role of reading and libraries in her life.

Meanwhile, South Korean writer Han Kang is also in Barcelona this week to mark Sant Jordi, presenting her book 'The Wind Blows, Go', recently published in Catalan and Spanish.

During the presentation, she said reading plays an important role in her life and described Sant Jordi as "a celebration that will be enjoyable to experience."

Kang also emphasized the importance of the humanities in challenging times. "Literature and art are always on the side of life," she said, adding that they help make people "more tolerant and more empathetic."

The 2024 Literature Nobel Prize winner is taking part in the celebrations, including book signings at La Central bookstore in the Raval on Sant Jordi Day.