The Literature Alliance

In 2009 CBI formalised its links with other key literature resource organizations through the Literature Alliance. Publishing Ireland, Ireland Literature Exchange, Irish Copyright Licensing Agency, Poetry Ireland, Munster Literature Centre and the Irish Writers Centre, along with CBI are committed to working together to present a stronger case for the ongoing support of literature as a key art form.

In 2010, the Alliance made a presentation to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Arts, Sport, Tourism, Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. The main topics under discussion were the promotion and support of Irish writers as well as the promotion of reading among the public, especially children.

The Alliance continues to meet with a range of public representatives to discuss the role of literature. Alliance members are also active members of National Campaign for the Arts.

Youth Arts Initiative

Similar to the Literature Alliance, a group of organisations working with children and young people are committed to working together to grow the resource allocation for children and young people within the arts. The main elements of the campaign in 2010 were a presentation to the Joint Oireachtas Committee, which included testimonies from three young people who have benefitted from their participation in youth arts and a special presentation event for TDs, Senators and policy makers, which took place in Autumn 2010. Along with CBI, the other members of Youth Arts Matters are National Youth Council of Ireland, Axis Arts Centre, Irish Association of Youth Orchestras, Kids’ Own and the National Association of Youth Drama.

Dublin Unesco City of Literature

In July 2010, Dublin became one of only four cities in the world to receive the UNESCO City of Literature designation. This important bench mark for Dublin cements an international literary reputation. Children’s Books Ireland are proud members of the City of Literature steering group and continue to work with the city of literature office to ensure literature for young people is central to the designation.