We are pleased to announce The Bookcase, our biennial showcase for contemporary British literature, will take place from the 14 - 18 August 2008 at the Edinburgh International Book Festival.

As a continuing tradition of writer exchanges and as part of Scotland's participation as the themed country at next year's Kolkata Book fair - the largest in the world we have invited three of Kolkata's most contemporary writers to this year's Bookcase. Rimi B. Chatterjee, Alka Saraogi and Srijato represent Kolkata's new vibrant generation of writers that have a distinctive yet diverse mix of styles and genres.

Though widely know in their own coutry The Bookcase will be an opportunity for them to reach a more international audience. Alka Saraogi said: 'To be a part of Edinburgh Bookcase means an opportunity to get to know if there can indeed be a global culture of ideas and expressions. At the same time it is to know how different and unique cultures can speak to each other.'

The programme will offer readings, performances and discussion from a wide range of established writers and emerging authors from the UK, with opportunities for interaction among participants.

In partnership with the Scottish Arts Council and the Edinburgh International Book Festival, The Bookcase aims to create wider recognition of the UK's creative and knowledge economy by developing partnerships with invited participants from countries outside the UK.

Applications to attend the Bookcase are now closed. We have selected 80 delegates who represent the diverse nature of the international literary community – including writers, journalists, festival organisers, teachers, academics, publishers and representatives from national arts councils.

The Bookcase is partnering with Edinburgh, the inaugural UNESCO City of Literature, in encouraging other cities to create a global network of creative literary cities, including other Cities of Literature and World Book Capitals.