Book lovers in Vienna can look forward to a special event once again: Starting Thursday, November 19, 2026, a total of 100,000 books will be distributed for free in the federal capital. The occasion is the 25th anniversary of the initiative „One City. One Book.“ This year’s edition gathers 27 short stories by as many authors.

Included are well-known names from the Austrian literary scene, such as Valerie Fritsch, Chris Lohner, Milena Michiko Flašar, Erika Pluhar, and Renate Welsh.

The initiative „One City. One Book“ has been part of Vienna’s cultural program for many years. Since 2002, books have been distributed for free to the public as part of the initiative. For the 25th anniversary, there is now a special jubilee edition.

Unlike in some previous years, this time a single work is not the focus. Instead, the book unites 27 short stories by 27 different authors.

A total of 100,000 copies will be produced and distributed in Vienna starting November 19.

The jubilee edition offers texts from numerous well-known writers and artists. Among the announced authors are Valerie Fritsch, Chris Lohner, Milena Michiko Flašar, Erika Pluhar, and Renate Welsh. A text by Monika Helfer is also included in the collection.

The contributions are intended to unite different literary voices in a single book.

The initiative „One City. One Book“ was launched in 2002. Its fundamental idea is to make literature accessible to a wide audience for free. The distribution of the books aims to promote a shared engagement with literature.

In 2025, Arno Geiger’s work „The Old King in His Exile“ was the focus of the campaign. For the 2026 anniversary, the initiative is now focusing on a collection of short stories.

According to the announcement, distribution begins on Thursday, November 19, 2026. A total of 100,000 copies are available.

Current information about the campaign and distribution options can be found on the official website .

(Red)

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