The new attempt to stop a new wave of coronavirus in France has aroused strong feelings among the country's literary critics, bookworms and authors.
They believe that books and reading are fundamental to the well - being of the people, writes New Indian Express.
"The state's task is to promote thought and culture"
Alexandre Jardin is one of several French authors who have offered to pay the fine that booksellers risk receiving after being open despite the corona restrictions.
- The state's task is to promote thought and culture.
French culture does not belong to them, it belongs to the people, he says in the French radio channel Europe 1.
This is the second time that the government has decided to close down shops that sell "non-essential" products and services.
The criticism of the decision is also about the loss of decisive income, says Oliver Nora who is CEO of the French book publisher Grasset.
"There was no cluster in a bookstore"
- We are all aware of the seriousness of the health situation.
There was no cluster in a bookstore and they are extremely responsible, says the CEO to Europe 1.
Following a downward trend in infections over the past week, Prime Minister Jean Castex has now raised the possibility of opening some stores in December.