The projects run by The National Library of South Africa: Centre for the Book are all in support of one or more of the following aims:

• Promotion of children's literature
• Promotion of reading
• Promotion of writing
• Promotion of publishing and self publishing

Promotion of Children's Literature

The Centre for the Book recognises the crucial importance of developing a culture of reading among very young children. Thus we are co-ordinating these two programmes:

• First Words in Print
• Children's Literature Network

Promotion of Reading

Various intiatives are aimed at building a nation of readers. These include:

• World Book Day
• Children's Literature Network
• First Words in Print
• Community Publishing Project
• Advice & Information

Promotion of Writing

One of the key aims of the Centre for the Book is to support the development of local writing and emerging writers.

Click here to read more about our writing projects

Promotion of Publishing

The Centre for the Book promotes South African Publishing in the following ways:

• The Community Publishing Project aims to open up entry points into publishing, making more openings for new and marginal voices.
• All First Words In Print books will be written, illustrated and published by South Africans
• The Children's Literature Network e-group is a forum for all those interested in children's books to share ideas, ask for information about books, where to get published,
• We have a Showcase of recent South African publications in the building
• We represent publishers at Book Fairs, for example at the National Arts Festival and at the Zimbabwe International Book Fair.
• The Centre for the Book is involved in book development, lobbying and advocacy for local books, local writers, the local book trade.
• The Centre for the Book is an active member of the Publishers Association of South Africa (PASA).