Initiatives
Advocacy
Books BC is the voice of BC’s independent book publishing industry.
Through data-supported briefings and policy recommendations we advocate for the long-term health and success of BC-owned and operated book publishers. The association conducts industry research and consults with stakeholders and partners to effectively communicate the impact of our sector. We build and maintain strong relationships with municipal, provincial, and federal government representatives and funding bodies to ensure that the cultural and economic activities of its membership are preserved with strong public policy.
Did you know?
Books BC’s 27 member publishers release more than 500 new books every year, generate approximately $100 million annually for the provincial economy and account for a quarter of all Canadian book exports. BC publishers also support, amplify and preserve BC culture by working with BC-based authors and illustrators on subject matter relevant to British Columbians.
Our independent publishers are telling BC stories, creating jobs, growing creative industries and taking BC books to readers in BC and around the world.
Active campaigns
Book Publishing Tax Credit Advocacy
We recommend that the Ministry of Finance remove the “sunset clause” from the BC Book Publishing Tax Credit to stabilize funding for BC publishers in an uncertain trade environment.
BC Arts Council Advocacy
We join our BC Arts Coalition of Arts, Culture, and Heritage colleagues in urging the provincial government to increase the overall BC Arts Council Budget to $58 million. We ask that adequate funding be allocated to the Book Publishing Operating Assistance Program so that emerging and equity-deserving publishers be allowed entry into the program.
Advocacy on Copyright and Fair Dealing
We join the Association of Canadian Publishers and industry associations across the country in urging the federal government to clarify fair dealing provisions to ensure compensation for creators for the use of copyright-protected work.
Advocacy achievements
Books BC’s advocacy work has resulted in initiatives such as:
- BC Book Publishing Tax Credit
- The formation of Creative BC, an economic catalyst agency serving the province’s creative industries
- The Book Publishers Market Fund, a program designed by Books BC and launched in 2019 by Creative BC
- BC Books section on board BC Ferries, which provides prominent placement for BC−authored and BC−published titles in the fleet’s on-board gift shops.
Additionally, we advocate on other industry-relevant issues, including, but not limited to:
- the vital contributions of local independent bookstores to the region’s economy and culture
- the health of school and public libraries
- the use of Canadian and BC books in schools
- accessible publishing practices
- inclusivity and diversity in publishing