Controversial Tax on Used Books Sparks Outrage in France

The proposed tax on used books faces criticism from the public. While Minister of Culture Rachida Dati advocates for "access to culture for all," the Commingeois community believes this tax contradicts that goal. Customers at a local bookstore argue that the tax benefits only large publishers while hindering authors and small businesses. Others express concerns about potential piracy due to increased digitalization and speculate about future taxes on everyday activities. The public questions the practicality of tracking the numerous private sales of used books, particularly through online platforms. Overall, the proposed tax has generated skepticism and discontent among citizens.

Tax on Used Books: A Contentious Measure

Saint-Gaudens, France - The French government's decision to impose a tax on used books has sparked widespread debate and criticism within the community. The tax, which is part of a wider cultural policy, has been met with strong opposition from booksellers, readers, and ordinary citizens.

Government's Rationale

The Minister of Culture, Rachida Dati, has defended the tax, arguing that it is necessary to promote access to culture for all and to encourage the opening of bookstores in underprivileged neighborhoods. However, her argument has failed to convince many critics.

Arguments Against the Tax

Local residents and booksellers have expressed outrage over the tax, which they see as a contradictory and counterproductive measure. They question why the government would discourage reading by imposing a tax on used books, which are often more affordable for people in low-income areas.

"They encourage reading and then they impose a tax," one critic remarked. "What will they do since used books are sold privately?"

Another customer at a local bookstore voiced concern that the tax is simply a pretext for publishers to increase their profits.

"I think the bigwigs in the publishing industry have joined forces to push the government to create an additional tax," he said. "Helping authors is just an excuse. They already receive so little from the books they write! Moreover, more and more authors are self-publishing."

Taxation on Cultural Goods

The tax on used books is part of a broader trend of increasing taxation on cultural goods in France. In recent years, the government has imposed taxes on digital books, audiobooks, and even copying machines. Critics argue that these taxes disproportionately burden readers and stifle cultural consumption.

Street Reactions

On the streets of Saint-Gaudens, people mocked the government's decision.

"Tablets and e-readers – we're surprised there's piracy when they tax everything!" one resident exclaimed. "Soon they'll be taxing the pages we turn."

A young boy who was running errands with his grandmother expressed his indifference towards the tax, as he only reads textbooks for school. His grandmother, however, was more concerned.

"I wanted to clear my shelves of books I've already read or won't read. My daughter asked for them, but at least these won't be taxed," she said. "It's incredible that they'll be able to track the millions of transactions on the website 'Le bon coin.'"

Conclusion

The tax on used books has become a highly controversial issue in Saint-Gaudens and throughout France. Critics argue that the tax undermines the government's stated goal of promoting access to culture, while also benefiting large publishers at the expense of readers and booksellers. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the government will reconsider its decision and abandon the unpopular measure.