CITIES OF LITERATURE HIGHLIGHT SDGs WITH 17-DAY SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN

As they do annually, several of the 63 UNESCO Cities of Literature raised awareness about the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with the social media campaign, “17 Books for the 17 SDGs.”

Each day, between December 7 and 23, UNESCO Cities of Literature shared book suggestions from their cities, using the hashtags #17Booksfor17SDGs and #17livrespour17ODD. Other Cities of Literature shared the selections to broaden the reach of the lists across the globe.

One of the SDGs was highlighted each day, and relevant books connected with each participating city were featured. These were non-fiction titles that specifically address that day’s SDG and works of fiction that illuminate the theme. 

The collaborative project was led by Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature.

“This project draws attention to the SDGs and raises awareness through books and story. It also offers the chance to highlight the work of writers with ties to Cities of Literature.”

-John Kenyon, Executive Director, Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature

About Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature

Iowa City of Literature is a non-profit organization managing the area’s designation as a UNESCO City of Literature.

For over 80 years, Iowa City has been a hub for creative writing, home to the renowned Iowa Writers’ Workshop and numerous literary programs. This small Midwestern city boasts a rich literary history, blending world-class institutions with a vibrant community of writers. 

Iowa City proudly celebrates its legacy and continues to foster opportunities for writers locally and globally. The University of Iowa continues to invest substantially in the dozens of writing and literary programs.