Paperback Book Day is celebrated annually on July 30. Why paperback books, specifically? Paperback Book Day recognizes the importance of medium, which was designed to provide equity of access to books around the world.

The history of paperbacks goes back to the 17th century when European countries like Germany and France published stories and papers in the paperback-like format. However, the concept exploded when publisher Allen Lane began commercializing the idea in the 20th century.

In the Smithsonian article “How the Paperback Novel Changed Popular Literature,” author Anne Trubek explains, “In 1935, Allen Lane, chairman of the eminent British publishing house Bodley Head, spent a weekend in the country with Agatha Christie. Bodley Head, like many other publishers, was faring poorly during the Depression, and Lane was worrying about how to keep the business afloat. While he was in Exeter station waiting for his train back to London, he browsed shops looking for something good to read. He struck out. All he could find were trendy magazines and junky pulp fiction. And then he had a “Eureka!” moment: What if quality books were available at places like train stations and sold for reasonable prices—the price of a pack of cigarettes, say?”

And so, the popular paperback, and equity of literary access, was born. Today, books of all types, from classics, to thrillers, to romances, are available in the oh-so-portable and affordable paperback form.

Today, pull out a treasured favorite or a new release to enjoy. And, celebrate Paperback Book Day!

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