On Europe 1, Thursday morning, François Hollande calls on the government to reconsider its position on libraries and bookstores, "places where we want freedom".

For the former head of state, "culture is devastated by the decisions taken" in the face of the coronavirus epidemic.

INTERVIEW

They are the forgotten measures announced by Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday evening to fight against the coronavirus epidemic: bookstores and libraries, which are not considered essential businesses, will remain closed for at least two weeks.

A review can be made in two weeks, said the head of state.

But for his predecessor, François Hollande, we must open these businesses to allow the population to escape during this period of restrictions, he calls on Europe 1.

>> LIVE -

 Coronavirus: follow the evolution of the situation Thursday, October 29

Hollande defends "the freedom to think"

"Culture is devastated by the decisions taken" in the face of the coronavirus epidemic, regrets the former President of the Republic.

"Knowing that there are no more theaters, cinemas, theaters, artists who have prepared themselves for long months to give the best of themselves, I can understand, because they are rooms open to the public. There may be health risks, even if we could perhaps have found adaptations. "

CORONAVIRUS ESSENTIALS

> Reconfinement: what to remember from Emmanuel Macron's speech

> When are we in contact?

And other questions that we ask ourselves every day

> Coronavirus: the 5 mistakes not to make with your mask

> Does wearing a mask promote bad breath?

On the other hand, François Hollande disapproves of the decision to close libraries and bookstores.

"I think we have to review this provision," says the man who signs the script for the album

Leur Etat, explained to young and old

(Glénat editions).

“I was yesterday (Wednesday) in a bookstore. It's a place where sanitary rules can be fully respected. But it's a place where families can go, where we want freedom. has more freedom to move around, we must at least have the freedom to think, to read. It's part of our heritage. "

"The best answer" for culture

The Head of State therefore launches "an appeal" to open bookstores and libraries "under conditions which will not cause any health problem".

"Allow us to discover authors and dream with reading. It's almost Christmas, gifts can be made by buying books. This is perhaps the best answer we can give in terms of culture", he concludes, assuring that "today's books are tomorrow's shows".