In Brest, works adapted to (re)instill a taste for books in people in difficulty

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By Dominique Cresson

“In 2013, there was a large movement of layoffs, particularly in Brittany in the slaughterhouses,” rewinds Gaëlle Guilmard, head of the adult sector at the Lambézellec media library, in Brest. On this occasion, our current president, then Minister of the Economy, had an unfortunate word regarding these workers who were, for the most part, in a situation ofilliteracy. »

So much for the contextualization of what became, from the following year, a great national causewith the Brittany as a pilot region.

Adapted books

This is how Livre et lecture en Bretagne made a proposal to books suitable for people in difficulty with reading. “To determine Easy to read, four main audiences were targeted: people in illiteracy situationpeople with cognitive disorders (either age-related or disability-related) and allophones. »

The fund Easy to read, dedicated to adults from 16 years old, understands himself different levels.

It can be aimed at these identified audiences, but also at a woman who has had several children, stopped working, taken care of her family a lot and lost the habit and taste for reading.

This is the reason why we will also find in the documentary collection of children’s books. This is the subject that may concern adults. “We must move forward with moderation. Reading is tiring », she admits.

“Reading is useful for everything”

There are lots of ways to read. In the eyes, on the lips, between the lines… We can read poetry, an invoice. “ Reading is useful for everything. When you don’t know how to read, you’re really in difficulty,” insists Gaëlle Guilmard.

Recently, we had a visit from leaders from the Don Bosco association who were looking for books for young people who had dropped out of school.

Gaëlle Guilmard regularly organizes workshops. “Some arrive late. For what ? Because learning begins with orientation. Taking the bus can be complicated. »

Until approximately 2023 7% of the population was considered in a situation of illiteracy. “In 2024, the national agency to combat illiteracy announced the figure of 4% without us really knowing what justifies this drop. I dare to hope that it is thanks to the actions we are taking,” concludes Gaëlle Guilmard.

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