30.10. “Viral Page by Page,” 7:30 p.m.

Reading as an activity is changing, just as literature and culture in general are. Whether through themes, formats, or influences such as social media—particularly TikTok and Instagram—reading is thus often becoming a social phenomenon with a performative aspect, even though it is generally considered a solitary, individual activity.

Gerhard Lauer, a book studies scholar from Mainz, explores precisely these kinds of questions. In his research and public lectures, he examines the role of reading in our society over time and also observes new developments such as BookTok and reading culture on the internet. In an accessible talk, he will outline these ideas before discussing precisely these questions and topics with book blogger and Instagrammer Jan Rademann, thereby bringing theory and practice together.

Moderation: Daniel Schmidt

In cooperation with the Delmenhorst Public Library.