SCHREIBEN & LEBEN
The project „schreiben & leben“ aims at a sustainable strengthening of the economic situation of freelancing authors, translators, editors and event managers in Berlin by providing information on various topics as well as networking events.
Besides the extensive one-on-one consultation programme, its components are the organisation of the Annual Gathering of the Literary Industry, a mentorship programme for literary curators as well as the support of the foundation of a literary producers’ cooperative. Furthermore, we provide an online ticketing solution for literary event managers and publish the Berlin Literature Calendar.
Who is behind the project „schreiben & leben“?
„schreiben & leben“ is a project of Literaturhaus Lettrétage e. V. in Berlin-Schöneberg. It is funded by the Senate Department for Culture and Europe and the European Regional Development Fund.
OUR CONSULTATION SERVICES
How do the consultation days work?
We periodically offer consultation days on various topics by different consultants. You can find the upcoming events on our website. Subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on Facebook to get regular updates on our newest consultation days.
To participate in a consultation day please book your preferred appointment here. You will then receive a link for a Zoom call, a telephone number or the directions to our office in due time before your consultation appointment.
Who are the consultations for?
The schreiben & leben consultations are targeted to freelance authors, translators, editors and literary event organisers based in Berlin. There are no specific requirements or necessary qualifications to take part in the consultations. Still, what we offer appeals to person who work professionally in the literary world – and who therefore see literature as more than a hobby.
What topics do the consultations cover?
Our consultation days deal with a wide range of economic concerns relevant to freelancers in the literary scene. Among the recurring topics are:
- How to find an agency or publisher as an author
- How to find customers as an editor or translator
- How to apply for grants and scholarships
- How to register for Artists Social Insurance Fund (Künstlersozialkasse)
- How to solve problems and organise your work
How long are the consultations?
Generally, 45 minutes.
Where do the consultations take place?
When registering, you can indicate whether you prefer a telephone consultation, a video conference via Zoom (no Zoom account needed) or a personal consultation in our office at Kolonnenstraße 26, 10829 Berlin.
Are the consultations held only in German?
No. We regularly offer consultations in English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Russian and further languages. Please contact us to schedule a one-on-one consultation in your language.
Is participation in the consultation programme free of charge?
Yes, participation in all consultations and events is free of charge. The project “schreiben & leben“ is supported by the Senate Department for Culture and Europe and the European Regional Development Fund.
Who are the consultants?
The consultations are held by freelance authors, editors, translators and event organisers who have been working in Berlin’s literary scene for years. This overview provides further information about our staff of consultants. If you are interested in a one-on-one consultation with someone who is currently not scheduled, please contact us via Email (info[at]literaturszene.berlin).
THE ANNUAL GATHERING OF THE LITERARY INDUSTRY
What is the Annual Gathering of the Literary Industry?
Since 2016, the Annual Gathering of the Literary Industry (“Branchentreff Literatur”) has brought together literary freelancers once a year to discuss current issues and political developments in the literary scene. The focus of the workshops, panels, talks and lectures at the past meetings were alternative forms of work organisation and cooperative models as well as the visibility of literature.
When does the Annual Gathering of the Literary Industry take place?
The next Annual Gathering will be held from May 5 to May 7 2023. For current information on the next Annual Gathering of the Literary Industry (date, registration procedure, programme, etc.), please visit the menu item Annual Gathering of the Literary Industry on our website.
How can I take part in the Annual Gathering of the Literary Industry?
Registration for the next Annual Gathering of the Literary Industry is possible on our website from about one month before the start of the event.
How can I help create the programme?
We would be pleased if you like to contribute to the programme. About 3-4 months before the event, you will find an Open Call with further information on our website.
Is the Annual Gathering exclusively held in German?
We will offer English-language events at the next Annual Gathering in 2023. Still, the majority of the programme will continue to be held in German.
THE BERLIN LITERATURE CALENDAR
What is the Berlin Literature Calendar?
The Berlin Literature Calendar is a project of the Literaturhaus Lettrétage e.V. and the Literarisches Colloquium Berlin to raise the profile of literary events in the capital. It is usually published monthly as a printed poster. It can be found all over the city in libraries, bookshops and at literary venues.
How do I get the Berlin Literature Calendar?
If you have the possibility to regularly put up the Literature Calender in a vertical A1-Format in your book store, venue or any other kind of public space, we will gladly add you to our mailing list. Please write an E-Mail to: giulia.silvestri [at] lettretage.de
You can browse our archive for old issues.
Can my event be added to the Berlin Literature Calendar?
Yes! The contact person for event organisers is Giulia Silvestri (giulia.silvestri[at]lettretage.de).