UNESCO Cities of Literature is a network of 63 cities around the world that champion literature as a driver of creativity, community, and international collaboration. We are part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.
Each city is recognised by UNESCO for its strong literary infrastructure—publishers, libraries, festivals, writers, bookshops—and for using storytelling to strengthen civic life.
Edinburgh, as the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature, plays an important role in this global community, working collaboratively with our sister cities to shape cultural policy and foster creative exchange.
Across the network, cities collaborate on projects such as:
Every year, we gather as a network to share learning and develop new partnerships.
For Edinburgh, being part of this network means connecting local writers and organisations to global opportunities, amplifying the city’s literary heritage, and contributing to international cultural leadership.
If you’d like to learn more about your city joining this network, please email director@cityofliterature.com to arrange a meeting with our Director.
If you’re a Scottish writer, literary professional or organisation who would like to make connections with any of our sister cities, get in touch!
The dedicated Cities of Literature website shares more details about each city.
Ljubljana has been a City of Literature since 2015. The city is home to the most prominent publishing houses and other literary organisations, and many creators live and work here.
Norwich is England's first City of Literature, and home to the National Centre for Writing.
Okayama has been a City of Literature since 2023. It is home to the Okayama Literary Festival.
