Dublin made Unesco City of Literature

27.07.10 | Victoria Gallagher in The Bookseller

Dublin has been designated a Unesco City of Literature, a title which "will further international interest in Irish literature".

Alan Hayes, former president of Publishing Ireland and publisher at Arlen House Publishers, said: "This prestigious accolade will further international interest in Irish literature and bring in cultural tourists who tend to spend more money and stay longer."

Hayes said the accolade would open new opportunities for Irish publishers on a local, national and international level. He added: "We believe that the annual Dublin Book Festival, which takes place in March, now has the impetus to become a highlight on the international cultural calendar."

Dublin joins Edinburgh, Melbourne and Iowa City as a Unesco City of Literature.