The Norwegian literary system is unique. Its foundations are fixed book prices, a scheme for the purchase of new books, VAT exemption on printed books, and collective agreements between rightsholders.
Purchasing scheme
The Norwegian book purchasing scheme is a state funded programme administered by Arts Council Norway. Every year, between 550 and 1,500 copies of approximately 600 new titles are purchased and distributed to public libraries throughout the country. The scheme’s main purpose is to safeguard the publication of new Norwegian books, to secure public access to these works and to ensure better revenues for authors.
The scheme was established in the 1960s as a purchasing arrangement for Norwegian adult fiction, and was quickly expanded to include literature for children and young adults, with distribution covering Norway’s school libraries. The scheme was a huge success and production quickly increased. Since then, it has been expanded with separate purchasing schemes for fiction and non-fiction in translation, Norwegian non-fiction for adults, Norwegian non-fiction for children and young adults, and graphic novels. The positive impact of these purchasing schemes is indisputable and a key factor in Norway’s exceptionally rich book flora.
Fixed book price
The fixed book price agreement allows publishers to set the price of a new book on publication. The booksellers and other retailers can then discount up to a maximum of 12.5% until 1 May in the following year. This makes it possible for readers to obtain books at a similar price all over the country, and ensures predictability for both writers and publishers.
VAT exemption
Having no VAT on books is important for keeping book prices at an affordable level, and makes them more accessible to readers.
Collective agreements
Collective agreements between the Norwegian Publishers Association and the organisations for authors, illustrators, and translators ensure fair deals for rightsholders.
Other funding schemes by Arts Council Norway
Grants are offered to talented authors, based on artistic quality and activity, and granted by representatives from the writers’ organisations. The Arts Council also offers several opportunities to apply for support for projects and productions.
Literary exports
NORLA - Norwegian Literature Abroad promotes the export of Norwegian literature through active promotional work an translation subsidies. The organisation also offers a range of funding schemes, all of which are aimed at promoting the translation of Norwegian books. Its operations are financed by the Norwegian MInistry of Culture. NORLA was founded in 1978, and has since 2004 contributed to translations of close to 5,200 Norwegian books into no fewer than 65 languages.