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Comic book cats tell story of protecting Ukrainian cultural heritage

Posted on February 24, 2025 by unesco-ic

“Marisel and Panna Kota are ordinary cats which lived a carefree and peaceful life in the unusual Odesa Museum, better known in Ukraine as the Bleshchunov House. 24/02/2022 is the […]

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A statement on anti-library legislation in Iowa

Posted on February 23, 2025 by unesco-ic
A block that reads "Statement on anti-library legislation: If this legislation is enacted, the cost is immense. A significant portion of adult literature, books written by University of Iowa graduates, bestsellers, and award-winning titles, will no longer be purchased by Iowa’s public libraries and no longer accessible to Iowans. Libraries and the cities they serve will be pulled into court to defend materials that some individuals see as “obscene.” Iowa librarians will no longer share best practices and evolve their library services to better meet the needs of their communities, knowledge gained through professional organizations."

A statement from the Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature organization regarding anti-library legislation pending in the Iowa Legislature: For almost 90 years, Iowa City stood at the forefront of […]

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Top student writers honored at One Book Two Book Festival

Posted on February 5, 2025 by unesco-ic

The Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature organization’s annual One Book Two Book Children’s Literature Festival will recognize the creative excellence of 28 area students as it offers a day […]

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Writer reflects on time spent in Nanjing for residency

Posted on December 9, 2024 by unesco-ic
A woman sits on a bench in front of shelves of books.

Yamila Transtenvot, who recently moved from Iowa City to Argentina, took part in the Nanjing International Writers Residency in October and November. The residency brought writers from six Cities of […]

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Cities of Literature highlight SDGs with social media campaign

Posted on November 27, 2024 by unesco-ic

As they do annually, several UNESCO Cities of Literature will raise awareness about the United Nations’ 2030 Strategic Development Goals with the social media campaign, “17 Books for the 17 […]

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Slam-O-Vision 2024 final to stream Dec. 12

Posted on November 25, 2024 by unesco-ic

On Thursday, Dec. 12, slam poets from 14 UNESCO Cities of Literature will compete in the Slamovision Grand Finale’s 6th year. Manchester City of Literature is hosting Slamovision for the […]

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Cities of Literature meet in Edinburgh to celebrate network’s 20th anniversary

Posted on November 6, 2024 by unesco-ic
Delegates from the UNESCO Cities of Literature arranged in rows on steps during the annual meeting in Edinburgh.

October marked the 20th anniversary of Edinburgh becoming the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature, and the city celebrated by hosting the Cities of Literature Annual Conference to mark the […]

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CAMILLE DUNGY NAMED 2024 PAUL ENGLE PRIZE WINNER

Posted on October 2, 2024 by unesco-ic

Camille Dungy has been named the 13th recipient of the Paul Engle Prize, presented by the Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature organization. The prize, established in 2011, honors an […]

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Iowa poets to compete in SlamoVision slam Sept. 22

Posted on September 9, 2024 by unesco-ic

Slam poets from around Iowa are invited to participate in a special international slam event in Iowa City on Sept. 22. SlamoVision is a project of the international UNESCO Cities […]

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Winners named in 2024 Glory of the Senses essay contest

Posted on August 28, 2024 by unesco-ic

The Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature organization has completed judging for this year’s Glory of the Senses: Paul Engle Essay Contest, and will award scholarships to six high school […]

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Recent Posts

  • Iowa City representative Henry Morray wins 2025 SlamoVision
  • UNESCO names 10 new Cities of Literature as Creative Cities Network grows
  • Winners named in City of Literature student essay contest
  • Cole Swensen named 2025 Paul Engle Prize winner
  • Slamovision qualifying slam set for Sept. 9

Our Mission

To build and support diverse communities of writers and audiences through the transformative power of story.

Our Vision

We lead by inclusion and collaboration, celebrating the emotions, discovery and connections inspired by the written word in all its forms.

Our Values

• Collaboration: we engage in complementary and cooperative work.
• Community: we foster inclusive engagement to create connection locally and globally.
• Creativity: we seek, engage, and support innovation.

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