The Estonian Literature Centre (Eesti Kirjanduse Teabekeskus) exists to generate interest in Estonian literature abroad. The centre publishes information on Estonian literature in several languages. As well as being closely involved with translators, writers and publishers, ELIC also works in close partnership with book fairs and literary events, ministries, embassies, cultural and academic institutes, other literature information centres, libraries and universities both in Estonia and abroad. ELIC organizes numerous literature events and translation seminars around the world and coordinates the Translator-in-residence programme. ELIC also maintains a database of translations of Estonian literature in other languages. ELIC was founded in 2001.

• To increase awareness of Estonian writing abroad, with particular emphasis on literary fiction.

• To provide the international literary world with up-to-date information on Estonian literature and the literary scene in Estonia.

• To establish and mediate contacts between Estonian authors and foreign publishers, magazines etc.

The Estonian Literature Centre generates interest in Estonian literary fiction abroad by providing information. In order to keep foreign publishers informed of successful Estonian quality literature it produces dossiers with translated extracts from a selection of titles which have proved artistically and commercially successful. The centre collects information on Estonian literature in translation. It also organizes seminars and other activities in co-operation with the Estonian Writers' Union. The ELIC works closely with the Estonian Literary Magazine (published by the Estonian Institute), one of the main publications that promotes Estonian literature abroad. A small library of the more important Estonian books has been created for the use of foreign translators.

The Estonian Literature Centre is an independent, non-profit institution established by the Estonian Writers' Union and the Estonian Publishers' Association. ELIC is supported by the Estonian Ministry of Culture.

This site was created with financial support from the Cultural Endowment of Estonia and the Centre for Contemporary Arts, Estonia. All literary translations on this site are subject to copyright laws. To use these translations, please contact ELIC