Live literature Research Project

What is the Live Literature Research Project?

The Live Literature Research project is a joint research project between Australia Reads and the University of Melbourne investigating the ways Australian authors connect with communities through live literature events. 

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. 

This research fills this gap by surveying and interviewing 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. 

The insights gained from this research will provide a foundation on which Australia Reads can build resources and make recommendations to support great author events. With your input, we can help connect more communities with authors and illustrators, and build a more vibrant reading nation.

Surveys now closed

Many thanks to all the booksellers, public librarians, school librarians and teachers who completed our online surveys as part of the Live literature Research Project. Survey responses closed on Monday 17 July 2023.

From the survey responses, a small sample of respondents will be contacted to participate in interviews with the researchers.

Those who have participated can access the Plain Language Statement here.

Missed out on the surveys but want to share your experiences? Email us at hello@australiareads.org.au

When will findings be released?

Key findings will be released in September, and full findings in October 2023.

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