The COVID-19 pandemic has had an enormous impact on the Australian cultural and arts sector, with many festivals, programs and events cancelled during what is the peak season for many creative Australians. Writers and illustrators have lost paid gigs, appearing at literary festivals, running workshops, and visiting schools and libraries. For many, these paid gigs are a critical source of income, and so they are now focusing on building their capacity to engage with audiences online.
Libraries are also adapting their programs for more online delivery, whilst their physical spaces are closed. Many have already established online storytime programs, and are now investigating options for delivering their other programs online, such as book clubs and author talks.
ALIA recognises that there is a need to support writers and libraries in connecting with one another to continue delivering these programs to their community. This page provides a listing of writers and illustrators who are looking to connect with libraries to create online events and programs. More will be added as their details are made available, so keep checking this page for new listings.
This listing is a free service, provided by ALIA with the support of the Australian Society of Authors and the Australian Publishers Association. Individuals listed are not necessarily endorsed or recommended by these organisations. ALIA does not take responsibility for managing bookings, facilitating program delivery or negotiating appearance fees. These will need to be arranged directly between participating parties. ALIA recommends that appearance fees be set in line with the ASA recommended rates of pay for writers and illustrators.
The following speakers' agencies are also available for enquiries about author appearances, either online, or for future in-person appearances:
If you are a writer or illustrator who wishes to be added to the listing below, please contact ALIA directly at advocacy@alia.org.au
Libraries can also support authors by taking part in the Australia Reads campaign, organising online events, and promoting them using the #AustraliaReadsAtHome hashtag.
To see a listing of some upcoming online author events, go to the Love Your Bookshop website, managed by the Australian Booksellers Association (ABA).