Slovenian literature has long been rich in poetic depth, storytelling tradition, and cultural insight. But for many years, it remained largely undiscovered beyond its borders. That’s changing—fast. And leading the charge is the Slovenian Book Agency (JAK), the organization quietly but powerfully putting Slovenian authors on the world map.
From supporting translations to securing festival invitations and now orchestrating the country’s biggest literary spotlight yet—Guest of Honour at Frankfurt Book Fair 2025—the Slovenian Book Agency is at the center of Slovenia’s literary rise. Let’s look at how they do it and why their work matters globally.
Table of Contents
Mission
The core mission of the Slovenian Book Agency (Javna agencija za knjigo – JAK) is simple but powerful: to promote, support, and internationalize Slovenian literature.
Founded in 2009, the agency handles everything from funding to networking. Their work includes:
- Supporting authors, translators, and publishers
- Funding book projects and translations
- Organizing appearances at international fairs
- Promoting Slovenian literature as a cultural brand
They’re not just administrators—they’re literary ambassadors.
Translations
One of JAK’s biggest tools is its translation support program. Because let’s face it—without translations, great stories remain hidden from the world.
JAK provides:
- Grants for translating Slovenian works into foreign languages
- Support for sample translations to attract international publishers
- Financial aid for publishing houses that take on Slovenian titles
- Annual calls that cover a wide range of genres
They’ve helped hundreds of titles find homes in bookstores across Europe, the US, and beyond.
Fairs
JAK doesn’t just wait for the world to notice Slovenian books—they actively take them to where the action is. The agency coordinates Slovenia’s presence at major international book fairs, including:
- Frankfurt Book Fair
- Bologna Children’s Book Fair
- London Book Fair
- Leipzig Book Fair
- Paris Book Fair
These events give Slovenian authors, illustrators, and publishers a global stage to pitch, connect, and promote.
The biggest milestone? Frankfurt 2025, where Slovenia will be Guest of Honour. JAK is managing the entire campaign—content, authors, design, and programming—making this the most ambitious cultural promotion in Slovenian literary history.
Grants
JAK offers a range of funding programs that support the entire publishing ecosystem. These include:
- Grants for original Slovenian book production
- Support for illustrations and book design
- Financial aid for literary events, workshops, and festivals
- Scholarships and residencies for authors and translators
This financial infrastructure helps keep the creative pipeline flowing and ensures Slovenian stories get told—and told well.
Networking
The Book Agency is also a connector. It links Slovenian publishers, writers, and illustrators with international counterparts through curated matchmaking sessions, co-publishing initiatives, and translation networks.
JAK often collaborates with:
- PEN International
- Literature Across Frontiers
- European Union cultural programs
- Foreign embassies and cultural institutes
These relationships build bridges that open doors for global exposure.
Education
Beyond promotion, JAK invests in education and training. They offer:
- Translator workshops and mentorship programs
- Seminars for literary agents and rights managers
- Professional development for publishers and editors
- Literary criticism and reading promotion projects
By growing the skills of Slovenia’s literary professionals, JAK ensures the industry stays competitive and future-ready.
Digital
JAK also embraces digital tools to reach modern audiences. Through social media, digital catalogues, virtual author events, and their official website (jakrs.si), they make Slovenian literature visible and accessible across the globe.
During the Frankfurt 2025 campaign, they’ve launched:
- Author video profiles
- E-rights catalogs
- Online interviews and digital press kits
- Real-time social media coverage
It’s not just about books—it’s about building a digital presence for Slovenian culture.
Impact
The results speak volumes. In recent years, JAK has helped:
- Increase the number of Slovenian books translated abroad
- Boost international recognition for authors like Drago Jančar and Anja Mugerli
- Strengthen Slovenia’s cultural reputation in Europe
- Inspire a younger generation of writers and translators
Their work is slow-burning but lasting—creating a literary legacy that will go far beyond Frankfurt 2025.
The Slovenian Book Agency might not always be in the spotlight, but it’s the force behind Slovenia’s growing cultural influence. Through strategy, funding, and vision, it’s proving that literature is more than just books—it’s identity, diplomacy, and a voice that deserves to be heard around the world.
FAQs
What is the Slovenian Book Agency?
A national agency promoting and supporting Slovenian literature.
How does JAK support translations?
Through grants, sample translations, and publisher funding.
Which fairs does Slovenia attend?
Frankfurt, Bologna, London, Leipzig, and Paris Book Fairs.
What is JAK’s role in Frankfurt 2025?
They’re leading Slovenia’s Guest of Honour campaign.
Does JAK support digital outreach?
Yes, with author videos, online events, and e-catalogues.
