Literature House Basel Twenty Five Years - Interview with Director Katrin Eckert

Celebrating 25 Years of Being A Home To Literature: An Interview with Katrin Eckert, Director of Literature House Basel

In 2025, Literature House Basel marked a significant milestone—its 25th anniversary. To commemorate this journey, we had the privilege of speaking with Katrin Eckert, the Director of Literature House Basel. Katrin has been pivotal in shaping the institution into the illustrious entity it is today. In our interview, we delved into the many facets that define the Literature House Basel, its unique position in Europe, and its future in the ever-evolving world of literature.

Literature House Basel is renowned for its dynamic range of activities, hosting around a hundred events annually, which include 60 to 70 book presentations. This broad spectrum of events encompasses German-speaking literature, translations from various languages, and lively discussions in French and English. The House also offers reading and writing workshops, cultivating a space where literature enthusiasts can exchange ideas and grow their literary prowess. It even boasts a cozy café that welcomes visitors to come, relax, and be inspired any time of the day. The 25th-anniversary celebrations were nothing short of spectacular. From hosting authors unfamiliar to German-speaking audiences to staging debates about the role and responsibility of literary institutions, the events highlighted the institution’s commitment to diversity in literature. A special event in June was a resounding success, showcasing the House's dedication to promoting both national and international literary talents.

Since its inception in 2000 and Katrin’s joining in 2008, the institution has embraced continuous development. The Literature House Basel has always prioritized a balance between local and international literature. Over the years, it has evolved to include a multitude of perspectives within its programming, aiming to attract diverse audiences and foster a vibrant literary community. As part of a network of 17 literature houses stretching across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Literature House Basel shoulders a significant responsibility. This network allows it to stage countless events, reaching audiences across linguistic and cultural boundaries. Its multilingual approach is especially advantageous in Basel, a city where 40% of the population are expats, making it a melting pot of languages and cultures.

In today’s attention economy, engaging with literature poses challenges. The evolution of media and technological advancements necessitates innovative approaches to reach audiences. Literature House Basel has adapted by revamping its online presence and programming to appeal to younger generations while maintaining its loyal audience base. Technological initiatives like the Hormal app offer literary walks that allow users to engage with Basel’s literary history and poets in an interactive way. The VorLaut initiative brings young authors to the fore, providing opportunities for them to connect with established writers. Meanwhile, informal settings like the sofa readings offer a relaxed platform for emerging authors to showcase their work.

Looking ahead, the future of Literature House Basel appears promising. As a hub for intellectual exchange and literary appreciation, it remains committed to fostering discussions and connections amidst the digital age. While the mediums may evolve—from eBooks to audio formats—the fundamental human desire to connect through literature persists. New initiatives, like those spearheaded by think tanks aiming to integrate more diverse perspectives, are continually being developed. Literature House Basel stands as a beacon of cultural and intellectual exchange. Under the thoughtful stewardship of Katrin Eckert, its next chapter is poised to continue enriching the literary landscape. Congratulations to Literature House Basel on its 25th anniversary, and here's to many more years of literary brilliance.

Mentioned In The Show:

• Literature House Basel
• Cafe Kafka
• International Poety Festival Basel
• Sofa Readings
• Writer In Residence - Atelier Mondial
• Network of Literature Houses

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