Expressions of interest are now open for schools, libraries and bookstores to participate in the second round of the LitUp program.
LitUp is a live literature initiative from Australia Reads, supporting Australian schools and communities to create and run events with authors and illustrators.
Now in its second round, the program is calling for applications from schools, libraries and bookstores in New South Wales and Queensland, with a focus on regional and outer-metropolitan communities.
Live author events are an interactive and inspiring way to connect communities with a love of books and reading.
“Storytelling, illustration and literacy can ignite the untapped potential in everyone, especially children. Get fired up with LitUp!”
– Dub Leffler, participating LitUp author
We know that many communities face significant barriers to holding live literature events – from geographic isolation and competing funding priorities to not knowing how to find, book and host authors.
The LitUp program seeks to make author events more possible by offering support and training, building skills and connections, and providing funding.
It encourages local schools, libraries and bookstores to work collaboratively to bring inspiring authors and illustrators to readers in their community.
“With LitUp’s support, we were able to host an author who would otherwise have been beyond our budget, while also strengthening connections between schools and libraries.”
– Sarah Ziemba, LitUp participant and teacher librarian, East Maitland
Successful applicants will work alongside the LitUp team through 2026 to deliver and run live author events in Terms one and two (Feb–July) 2027.
Who is eligible to apply? Schools, libraries and bookstores based in New South Wales and Queensland. We particularly encourage organisations from rural and regional areas to apply.
Find out more about the program and submit your EOI by 5pm AEST 29 April 2026.
LitUp is generously supported by Creative Australia, Copyright Agency Cultural Fund and CreateNSW.