We are not sure just how many Belizean writers and poets there are in the country or even how many local publications exist but an activity today as part of book week promises to improve and protect the publications of Belizean literature. For the first time in Belize a Book Industry Association was launched. Following the ceremony, 7News caught up with BBIA’s interim President Montserrat Casademunt.
Montserrat Casademunt, Interim President – BBIA
“Very few people know about the process of publishing, it is familiar with the publishing. So I believe this is the first concern, there is a lot of working behind a book and the production of a book. So what we are doing is getting together a group of professionals in the book industry that will help in presenting a new image of the printing industry because this industry can contribute to Belize’s economic development.”
Jacqueline Godwin,
What role will the BBIA play when it comes to copyright?
Montserrat Casademunt,
“Copyright, they really need to look into that issue of copyright as there is so much being copied, so much taken for granted. It seems we are willing to pay for everything but not for the creative input of all our writers and musicians. So I think this needs to change. We are organizing a workshop today with assistance from IFRO and Access Copyright Canada and we are really making people aware of the need to protect all these works that are out there.”
Book Week concludes tomorrow evening with a literary evening of poetry and prose at the House of Culture. The two hour presentation which starts from six thirty on Friday evening will include readings and discussions on Belizean literature. All Belizean readers and writers are especially invited to attend.
