Macedonian writers living abroad are being invited to preserve and share their literary works through a new diaspora-focused initiative. The project aims to make books written by Macedonian emigrants accessible to readers in Macedonia and around the world.
The initiative, announced on November 5, brings together Macedonia’s Agency for Emigration and the digital publishing platform Panoptikum.mk.
It invites writers, poets, researchers and other authors living overseas to submit information about their published works for possible inclusion in a digital library.
Digital Library Opens Opportunities for Macedonian Writers Abroad
The Macedonian diaspora digital library initiative builds on Panoptikum’s existing online book platform, which launched earlier this year.
Through its e-Library, the platform provides a space for Macedonian literary works, historical publications, research materials and other books.
Authors living in the United States, Canada, Australia and European countries can express interest in having their previously published books included in the collection.
According to the Agency for Emigration, some existing publications may qualify for free inclusion in the library’s initial collection.
However, every book must be included with the consent of the author or copyright holder. Reading and distribution conditions will be agreed upon in advance.
The initiative also offers publishing opportunities for authors preparing new manuscripts.
Through its KLIK e-publishing service, Panoptikum provides options for editorial preparation, cover design, digital publication and online book sales.
The services and their costs depend on the publishing model selected by the author.
Writers who choose commercial distribution can sell their electronic books through the platform, subject to individual publishing agreements.
The digital library already includes works by Macedonian authors, including literary classics and contemporary publications.
Its broader goal is to make Macedonian-language books easier to discover and read, regardless of where readers live.
Diaspora Organizations Invited to Share Community Stories
The initiative extends beyond publishing books.
Panoptikum is also inviting Macedonian associations, cultural organizations and community groups abroad to share news about their activities.
These may include literary evenings, exhibitions, concerts, educational programs and other cultural events.
The platform is particularly interested in stories about Macedonian emigrants who have achieved success in science, medicine, education, business, sports and the arts.
Community organizations can submit photographs, biographies, event announcements and suggestions for interviews.
Submitted materials will be reviewed and edited before publication.
For Macedonian communities overseas, the project offers another opportunity to document cultural activities that might otherwise receive limited attention in the homeland.
It could also help younger generations discover writers and cultural figures connected to their family’s heritage.
The organizers are encouraging interested authors to begin by sending a short description of their work and explaining whether they want to publish an existing book, release a new title or share community news.
Authors and organizations can contact Panoptikum representative Goran Dimitrovski at goran@panoptikum.mk.
Additional information is available at Panoptikum.mk.
The initiative remains an open invitation to participate, rather than an announcement that all submitted books will automatically become part of the collection.
