Books Council of Wales celebrates 60th anniversary with week of events

The Books Council of Wales is celebrating its 60th anniversary with a week of activities kicking off today (1st November) and running until Friday (5th November). 

It will outline its vision for the future with the launch of its new five-year strategic plan, "Wales: A Reading Nation", and explore its history with all aspects of the Welsh books industry celebrated throughout the week. 

The council said it would uncover "the creative, vibrant and exciting world of publishing in Wales" through an anniversary book, films of the publishing industry at work, the Mary Vaughan Jones Award and reminiscing about "brilliant books" and the Sbondonics reading club, which was set up in 1983 to ensure that primary school children could see and buy the wide selection of Welsh-language books on the market.

The week of celebrations will be launched with the publication of a volume of essays to celebrate the 60th anniversary. Two Rivers from a Common Spring [pictured] tells the story of the Books Council, from its foundation in the 1960s to today. Edited by Gwen Davies with illustrations by printmaker Molly Brown, the book charts the legacy and work of the council. A companion volume, O Hedyn i Ddalen, is available in Welsh. 

Helgard Krause, c.e.o. of the Books Council of Wales, said: “I am honoured and delighted to be leading this organisation during this milestone celebration, as we navigate the uncharted territory of Covid recovery and look forward to the next five years. These last 18 months have highlighted the immense contribution books make to our wellbeing and mental health.

"A published book is always the result of the creative collaboration of the many different people who make up the sector, which includes booksellers, and we will continue to support the industry here in Wales to ensure that the many stories that reflect our country will continue to be told.” 

Readers can visit books.wales for further information.