University pens partnership with book festival

The University of Derby and Derby Book Festival have signed a strategic partnership to further strengthen their commitment to arts and culture in Derby.

The university was instrumental in helping to establish the first Derby Book Festival in 2015, and has since provided annual funding and in-kind sponsorship, as well as event support and opportunities to collaborate with staff and students.

The strategic partnership formalises this commitment and will see the two organisations working to develop innovative and impactful projects, events and activities that provide learning experiences to students outside of curriculum opportunities.

The partnership will also look at new ways to enrich the culture of the city, promoting the city and county as a destination and as a place to study, live and enjoy leisurely, as well as supporting businesses and communities in the region.

It will also mean the organisations will work together to develop funding bids by Derby Book Festival, as well as increase engagement between the festival and academic colleagues and researchers at the university.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, vice-chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “As one of the festival’s founding partners, we have been delighted by its success and are excited for this new chapter, which will further strengthen the partnership between our two organisations.

“Over the years, we have witnessed the festival develop in size and shape, attracting a range of notable speakers and guests, and we look forward to seeing how we can work together further to continue to enhance the city’s diverse arts and cultural offering.

“As a civic university, we take the culture of our city seriously and are committed to playing our part, so we are delighted to expand on this relationship.”

Liz Fothergill, chair of Derby Book Festival, said: “Since the concept of Derby Book Festival was first suggested, the University of Derby has been a committed and passionate partner, offering endless support, guidance and enthusiasm.

“The partnership has continued to develop with stronger relationships forming each year with staff, students and partner schools.

“By working together, we hope that our aim of bringing books to life and sharing the joy that reading brings to our lives can continue to be extended and enhanced.”

This year’s Derby Book Festival started last Friday and runs until Saturday.

It features 50 events taking place across 10 venues.

For more information and to book tickets visit https://www.derbybookfestival.co.uk/ .