Giovanni Bosco – “Educational reading and spreading good books (1860-1885)” in “Salesian Sources 1. Don Bosco and his work. Collected Works”

In the late 19th century, Saint John Bosco, or Don Bosco, expressed deep concern over the detrimental impact of bad literature on young students. In response, he initiated the establishment of the “Library for Italian Youth” or “Library of Italian Classics” in 1868, a tangible effort to provide a positive alternative. Don Bosco, functioning as a dedicated writer, publisher, and propagandist, considered spreading the good news through printed materials an essential service to religion and a fundamental aspect of his role as an educator. Through circular letters, particularly those from 1884 and 1885, he addressed the significance of selecting appropriate books for young readers and removing harmful ones. This passage also alludes to a personal letter to Fr J. B. Lemoyne, the Rector/Director of a boarding school, emphasizing Don Bosco’s comprehensive commitment to fostering the intellectual and moral growth of the youth in his care.

Reference time period: 1860 – 1885

Reference institution:
Istituto Storico Salesiano