Australia Reads partners with Uni Melb to research events, announces reading symposium

Australia Reads has announced a joint research project with the University of Melbourne, to investigate ‘the ways Australian authors connect with communities through live literature events—from author talks to workshops, performances and school visits’.

The researchers will survey and interview a range of event organisers, ‘to better understand the processes, considerations and barriers to hosting live literature events in Australia, in settings other than our major literary festivals’, and are calling on booksellers, librarians and teachers to take part in its online surveys.

‘Despite the proliferation of live literature events in Australia, there has been no empirical research to date that focuses on how these events are organised, what information organisers use to choose and connect with authors, what factors shape programming decisions, and what barriers exist in this process,’ said Australia Reads, adding that the research would fill this gap, and provide a foundation on which Australia Reads can ‘build resources and make recommendations to support great author events’.

The surveys will be open until 17 July 2023, with key findings to be released in September, and full findings in October 2023.

In related news, Australia Reads has also announced it will hold a free one-day symposium ‘dedicated to creating a stronger reading culture in Australia’ and primarily aimed at leaders in the books and reading sector, their teams and colleagues. Supported by the Australia Council for the Arts, VOLUME will take place online on 21 September and will explore ‘effective ways to encourage reading alongside insights into advocacy and marketing from other industries’. ‘We’ll look at how to tell a strong, unified message about the benefits of reading, and consider how we might work with partners and governments to create a nation of readers,’ Australia Reads said.

Category: Local news