Our guests visited a number of Slovenian publishing houses and bookstores, and met with various authors – among them household names such as Maja Haderlap, Boris A. Novak, Drago Jančar and Jani Virk. They took stops at the National and University Library (NUK), the National Gallery, the Seminary Library, the Plečnik House, the Modern Gallery, and at the headquarters of the Ljubljana City Library. They also met with respective representatives of the Slovene Writers' Association, the Slovene Publishers Society and the Goethe Institute.
On Tuesday, the first formal talks were held between representatives of the Administration of the Frankfurt Book Fair, the Slovenian Minister of Culture Mr Anton Peršak, and the President of the Republic of Slovenia Mr Borut Pahor. During this momentous occasion, Mr Pahor accepted the distinguished role of honorary patron of the candidature of Slovenia for the title of Guest of Honour at the Frankfurt Book Fair. Therefore, this project has been officially elevated to a project of national importance. In addition, it also represents a unique opportunity for Slovenia to present itself on an international stage and strive to establish its culture and literature on a global scale.
During the next five years, the title of "Guest of Honour at the Frankfurt Book Fair" will be held by France (2017), Georgia (2018), Norway (2019) and Canada (2020). The year 2021 coincides with the 30th Anniversary of Slovenia's independence and will also mark the second time since 2008 that Slovenia will take on the EU Council Presidency (during the second part of that year).
The "Guest of Honour" is formally selected by the Supervisory Committee of the Frankfurt Book Fair. The selectee for 2021 is scheduled to be revealed either at the end of this year or at the beginning of 2018. The Slovenian Book Agency, actively supported by Slovenian publishers and other cultural actors, has launched the first preparatory and organizational activities for this project in 2015. The visit of the Administration of the Frankfurt Book Fair is proof that the Slovenian candidature is under serious consideration.
Aleš Novak, Director of the Slovenian Book Agency (JAK): "The project 'Slovenia – Guest of Honour at the Frankfurt Book Fair' most definitely ranks among the most important projects when it comes to presenting our country on an international stage and establishing Slovenian literature on a global scale. The Slovenian Book Agency (JAK) has been developing concepts for a successful presentation. We humbly consider the visit by the Administration of the Fair as proof that our plans and outlined activities have convinced the 'authorities' that our intentions are valid and that all actors from the literary and cultural sphere involved express the necessary potential required for a successful implementation of this monumental project."
Jürgen Boos, Director of the Frankfurt Book Fair: "During these two days, I learned more about Slovenia than I could have ever imagined. My distinguished colleague and I are returning home with lasting impressions. Literature and culture appear to be of great importance here. The network of public libraries fascinated me, as did the stable support provided to publishers that is crucial for such a small market. I am convinced that Slovenia has a lot to show for on an international level. "
Media coverage: http://4d.rtvslo.si/arhiv/prispevki-in-izjave-kultura/174452638