Hobart celebrates with TasWriters and Tasmania Reads Week
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Published on 21 March 2024
The City of Hobart’s standing in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a City of Literature is well founded, with the capital to host two significant literary events: the TasWriters Celebration of Tasmanian Reading and Tasmania Reads Week.
Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said the City was a sponsor of the festival through the Events Grants program.
"As a newly designated UNESCO City of Literature, Hobart is honoured to host the TasWriters Celebration of Tasmanian Reading,” Cr Reynolds said.
“This event celebrates our city's rich literary heritage and serves as a platform for showcasing the diverse talents of Tasmanian writers and storytellers."
The Celebration of Tasmanian Reading, set to take place at Hadley's Orient Hotel from 22-23 March, promises an immersive literary experience for attendees.
From engaging play readings to evocative Haiku sessions, captivating graphic novel showcases to intriguing cosy crime discussions, the festival offers a wide array of activities to delight literature enthusiasts of all ages.
TasWriters director Cassandra Wunsch said: “We’re so excited to be kicking off a much closer relationship with Libraries Tasmania with this celebration of Tasmanian stories and storytelling.
“The working group that put together the application for Hobart’s City of Literature status has shown so much dedication and shares a conviction that working together we can support all Tasmanians to access the stories that will inspire them.
“We’re also partnering with Fullers and Hobart Bookshops, Forty South publishing and individual storytellers to bring this celebration of reading to life.”
In addition to the Celebration of Tasmanian Reading, Libraries Tasmania will host Tasmania Reads Week, themed Try Something New.
Libraries Tasmania Acting Director, Library Network, Tim Polegaj said, “Tasmania Reads Week is an opportunity for Tasmanians to celebrate reading in fun and meaningful ways.
“There are 60+ events statewide hosted by public libraries. You can Try Something New and join the library for free in person or online anywhere, anytime.”
Cr Reynolds said this was another important program that would help Tasmanian literacy rates.
"This annual celebration, organized by Libraries Tasmania, encourages residents and visitors alike to discover or rediscover the joy of reading,” Cr Reynolds said.
“It's a wonderful opportunity to explore new genres, authors, and library programs while fostering a love for literature across our community."
Tasmania Reads Week, scheduled from 17-23 March, will feature a week-long lineup of reading-inspired events and activities across libraries and businesses statewide.
Whether it's diving into novels, recipes, newspapers, poetry, or comic books, Tasmania Reads offers something for everyone.
Event detailsTasWriters Celebration of Tasmanian Reading 2024
Date: 22 and 23 March 2024
Location: Hadley's Orient Hotel, Hobart
Tasmania Reads Week 2024
Date: 17 - 23 March 2024
Location: Libraries and businesses statewide
For more information about the events or to get involved, please visit taswriters.org and libraries.tas.gov.au/tasmania-reads/tasmania-reads-2024