The library of the Tournay Abbey asserts itself as a lively and open cultural space. With the event “Saturday, I read at the abbey”, the monks transform their garden on June 6th into a haven for reading and literary exchanges.
“Samedi, je lis at the abbey”. That’s the initiative of the Tournay brothers who invite book lovers of all backgrounds to come and enjoy the conducive atmosphere for reading in the monastic park along the banks of the Arros River on Saturday, June 6th. Brother Martin, a key figure in the abbey’s bookstore, explains, “Historically, we participate in the national 15-minute reading in March. But we wanted to go further. Throughout the year, we receive many people who enjoy reading in our garden. So, we decided to dedicate a day to welcome them and invite them to make use of the park, equipped with their blanket or folding chair. The idea is for them to relax, but also to exchange thoughts on their readings, around a picnic, for example. It’s a cultural event for reading, but it will also be possible to meditate, pray, or simply observe the rituals and services that create an ambiance. At 1 PM, there will be a storytelling session for children, taking advantage of the acoustics of the place.”
A public event that celebrates the transformation of the abbey’s bookstore. “For three years, the store, where we sell our fruit pastes, has become an independent bookstore in its own right,” says Brother Martin, who is happy to use his literature studies to serve visitors. “Now, we handle our own orders. Mostly, they are still religious books, but one-third of our stock consists of books for everyone, including novels and some comics.”
Orders via Instagram
A new service open every day except Monday mornings that fills a gap since there’s no bookstore nearby. Brother Martin explains, “We have many vacationers, curious visitors who come. Beyond religion, historically abbeys are cultural places with literary and artistic dimensions. Through this bookstore, we are reviving that somewhat diluted spirit. It’s important to offer that. I also try to advise visitors based on my readings. We take orders from everyone, including through Instagram, at any time of the day. People are starting to notice. We have locals from Tournay who come back, even if sometimes it’s the closest ones who are the last to take the few steps towards us.”
A independent bookstore that also strengthens the connection between the monks and reading. Brother Martin points out, “We are avid readers who also write a lot of hand-written letters. During meals, there are reading sessions. In the evening, it’s mostly religious texts, but at noon, it’s more cultural books from which we can draw values.” Therefore, it’s natural for the Tournay brothers to invite as many people as possible on June 6th to this “Saturday, I read at the abbey” event.
