Since its inception in 1974, the mission of TIFA programming is to promote interest and enthusiasm in writing and reading on both a local and international level; to showcase the excellence and variety of Canadian literature; to introduce young readers to the wonders, pleasures and possibilities of reading and writing; to provide Canadian and international authors with an opportunity to meet and to exchange ideas; and to offer programs and events for a wide range of communities and age groups that increase the awareness of all forms of literature.
Programming
TIFA programming runs throughout the year with several different categories of programming. Each TIFA event is digitally recorded on photo, video and audio. Beginning in 2006, these recordings are sent to the holdings of the Library and Archives Canada. This not only allows researchers and documentary makers extensive use of the archives, but acts as a permanent documentation of IFOA’s extensive programming.
TIFA Weekly Event Series
Running from September to June, the weekly event series includes authors taking part in events like readings, round table discussions and interviews.
The Toronto International Festival of Authors, one of the most celebrated literary festivals in the world, was inaugurated in 1980 with a mandate to bring together the best writers of contemporary world literature. Like the weekly series, IFOA includes readings, interviews, round table discussions and talks, as well as public book signings and a festival bookstore. IFOA also continues to present readings by Scotiabank Giller Prize, and finalists, the recipient, and the awarding of the $10,000 Harbourfront Festival Prize.
Lit on Tour
Beginning in 2007, TIFA sought to grow their audience base by introducing the IFOA’s touring program, . This touring program visits communities in numerous cities and towns across Ontario. In 2010 IFOA Ontario featured 16 events in 14 towns and cities, from Windsor to Picton and Hamilton to Sudbury.
Book Bash
An integral part of TIFA, Book Bash, previously known as Young IFOA, was born as a way to include a younger generation of readers in a festival of international repute.
ALOUD: a Celebration for Young Readers
was also introduced in 2005, featuring some of the world’s leading authors for young people. In 2010, ALOUD was incorporated as part of the Forest of ReadingFestival of Trees. In May 2007, TIFA hosted the first annual Forest of Reading Festival of Trees on the 10-acre site. Now Canada’s largest children’s literary event, attracting 8,000 audience members annually, this action-packed festival celebrates the shared experience of reading through award ceremonies, workshops and activities. The Festival of Trees is presented with the Ontario Library Association.
Harbourfront Festival Prize
Established in 1984, the Harbourfront Festival Prize is presented annually in recognition of an author's contribution to Canadian letters – based on the merits of their own published work and/or the time they have invested in nurturing the next generation of literary talent.
