This only remaining wooden modernist pavilion-reading room on the Lithuanian seaside, celebrating its 60th anniversary, is an integral part of the cultural life of the coast. People come to the Lithuanian National Martynas Mažvydas Palanga Summer Reading Room with children, pets, books, and bicycles, and on rainy days – with umbrellas and a desire to discover stories that warm the heart.
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“The National Library helps people discover stories and experiences that inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity. It is important to us that literature is accessible to everyone and everywhere, because reading is one of the strongest ways to grow and remain resilient both as individuals and as a community,” said Aušrinė Žilinskienė, Director General of the Lithuanian National Martynas Mažvydas Library.
Everyone will find their story – from comics to poetry and music
Comics workshop for everyone. In the morning, comic fans will gather in the reading room – from five-year-olds to adults. Artist Viktorija Ežiukas will invite participants to create their own heroes, draw their stories, and make small comic books.
Literary improvisation. In the afternoon, teenagers who enjoy reading or dream of writing a book will meet in the “Literary Improvisations” workshop. Participants will be able to engage in discussions about why we read (and sometimes why we don’t), share favorite authors, and even become writers and storytellers themselves by creating improvised sketches.
Radio theater. The afternoon on the coast will continue with a replay of the radio theater play “Adopted.” Guests of the reading room will meet actors Gabija Urniežiūtė and Ainis Storpirštis, who will help combine sound, imagination, and creativity. Visitors will be able not only to listen but also to create – with brushes, watercolor, and coastal views that will become part of the performance.
Playwright A. Jurašius, director J. Javaitis, sound director S. Jadevičienė.
Poetry evening. In the evening, poet Gintaras Grajauskas will be a guest in the reading room. Laureate of the National Culture and Art Prize and the “Book of the Year 2025” poetry literature category promises a witty conversation about literature, creativity, and everyday life, accompanied by poetry readings (and perhaps music).
Evening solo stand-up. Comedian Domas Raibys will perform “The Unemployment Calendar,” featuring funny and relatable stories about the strangest work experiences – from television to postman or playwright.
Darius Žvirblis concert. The festival will be crowned with music turning into a poetic evening story about the inner world of a person and the paradoxes of everyday life.
“Waving Stories” is a day when literature on the coast becomes a living experience: free, creative, and accessible to all. More information is available on the Lithuanian National Martynas Mažvydas Library website.
