Event:

First Friday with Anna Burkey

Friday 3 October, 12.30pm

First Friday, our monthly conversation with an industry professional, is a chance for our community to learn more about the writing and publishing industry. This October, we invite you to our online event with Anna Burkey.

Anna Burkey, head of Australia Reads, is a leading expert on the what, why and how of Australian reading habits. It’s common to be pessimistic about the Australian reading and writing sector – but there are hidden strengths and opportunities that give cause for some optimism. Did you know that over 50% of Australians want to read more, but finding something to read is a barrier many still confront? Or that the way in which we read is changing and formats for books need to change with that? Anna will explore this and more in a fascinating talk about the end user for all writers, the reader.

This event starts online at 12:30pm, via Zoom, and will run for 60 minutes. If there is time, we will take audience questions at the end. First Friday events are free and open to members and non-members, but RSVPs are essential. You can also submit a question for Anna in the ‘Additional Information – Order Notes’ section at Checkout.

If you have additional access needs please contact us at info@writingnsw.org.au or 02 9555 9757.

Registered attendees will receive a link to access this event prior to the start time.

Anna Burkey is the Head of Australia Reads, a national not-for-profit on a mission to get more Australians reading more books, more often.

Hailing from Scotland, where she was on the founding team of Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature, she currently lives on Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung lands.

After several years in leadership roles with State Library Victoria, leading the Centre for Youth Literature and establishing the Children’s Quarter, Anna is working with partners across the country to grow Australia Reads, secure investment in reading, and increase national reading rates.

Anna herself is always keen to connect with bookish colleagues, and happy to share the inside story on the many engagement programs she’s been a part of – from the trickier and stickier aspects to the heartwarming moments.

This event has already taken place.

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