Charitable social enterprise and libraries operator GLL is launching the second year of its GLL Literary Foundation, an initiative established to support children's authors, inspire readers and champion the role of public libraries.

Now recognised as a leading national programme, and featured in the Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook 2026, the Foundation offers professional, financial and creative support to help children's authors build sustainable careers while connecting directly with readers through local libraries.

Applications for the 2026 author cohort open on 14 November 2025 and close on 9 January 2026.

For Publishers and Authors

The GLL Literary Foundation Author Programme is a year-long professional development opportunity for traditionally published authors of children’s books. Applications must be made by publishers nominating authors who would benefit from structured professional and creative support.

Authors will be selected for their publishing record, their connection to GLL library areas, and their enthusiasm for working with librarians, schools and local communities to engage children and families in reading.

Each successful author receives:

• A £750 bursary and in-kind support worth up to £4,000
• A dedicated librarian mentor to help design and deliver events in libraries and schools
• Specialist training in branding, marketing, finance and publicity
• Networking opportunities with publishers, booksellers and literary festivals
• Access to workspace in GLL’s business library hubs

In addition to the bursary placements, the Foundation provides an open-access online author support programme available to all authors living or working in areas where GLL manages public libraries. This includes free webinars, professional development sessions and virtual mentoring with librarians and industry specialists, ensuring that a wide range of authors can benefit from GLL’s expertise and resources.

Feedback from the Foundation’s first year showed clear results: authors reported increased confidence, stronger professional networks, greater visibility and measurable growth in book sales.

All 20 authors from the 2025 cohort will continue into a new Alumni Programme, remaining part of the GLL Literary Foundation community and benefiting from continued development and engagement opportunities.

Nadine Wild-Palmer, author, told Books for Keeps: “Working with the GLL Literary Foundation has already made me feel like I am back where I belong, with a lively literary community championing the work of early-career authors. It has renewed my sense of hope and reassured me that I can sustain my career as a children’s author.”

Building on Research and National Priorities

Created in response to evidence that early-career authors are finding it harder to sustain their work, and that meeting authors improves children’s reading engagement, the Foundation combines funding, mentoring and partnerships to strengthen the cultural impact of libraries.

It also contributes to the National Year of Reading 2026, supporting national efforts to boost literacy and celebrate the joy of stories.

Rebecca Gediking, GLL Head of Libraries, said: “The GLL Literary Foundation brings together authors, librarians and readers in a shared space for creativity, learning and inspiration. It demonstrates how libraries can empower both writers and communities to thrive.”

Philip Donnay, Deputy Chief Executive of GLL and Chair of the GLL Literary Foundation, added: “This programme is strengthening the UK’s literary ecosystem by connecting authors, publishers and readers for real community benefit. It builds on GLL’s £100 million annual social value, widening access to culture and supporting the next generation of children’s authors.”

Joseph Coelho OBE, Patron of the GLL Literary Foundation, said: “Becoming established as a children’s author is extremely challenging. The GLL Literary Foundation gives authors the training, confidence and opportunities they need to share their work and connect with readers through libraries. I’m proud to be part of a programme that places libraries at the heart of the UK’s creative future.”

For details and applications visit: www.better.org.uk/library/gll-literary-foundation

Enquiries: literary.foundation@gll.org