Do you have what it takes to become a UNESCO City of Literature?   

The following list of criteria and characteristics serves as a guide for cities interested in joining the network as a City of Literature:  

• Quality, quantity and diversity of editorial initiatives and publishing houses;
• Quality and quantity of educational programmes focusing on domestic or foreign literature in primary and secondary schools as well as universities;
• Urban environment in which literature, drama and/or poetry play an integral role;
• Experience in hosting literary events and festivals aiming at promoting domestic and foreign literature; 
• Libraries, bookstores and public or private cultural centres dedicated to the preservation, promotion and dissemination of domestic and foreign literature;
• Active effort by the publishing sector to translate literary works from diverse national languages and foreign literature;
• Active involvement of media, including new media, in promoting literature and strengthening the market for literary products.

Click here to find out how to apply

Appointed city:

• Edinburgh

Further reading on books and literature:

• Book Policy
• Literature and Poetry
• World Book Capital City

External links: