Publishers, communications experts, authors, agents and booksellers will be sharing their industry knowledge and expertise with Stirling Centre for International Publishing and Communication students this semester.

The programme begins on October 4 with Adrian Searle, publisher at Freight Press and editor of Scotland’s leading literary magazine, Gutter. Next (October 11), Peggy Hughes will describe her work at Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust, and the following week (October 18), Ann Steiner from Lund University, Sweden will give an academic’s perspective on recent developments in international publishing.

After the mid-semester break, two highly successful authors feature in the programme. Keith Gray is a well-established author of fiction for children and reluctant readers (November 1) and is followed by our own Dr Paula Morris of the University’s Creative Writing taught masters course (November 8). Both will give their perspectives on the publishing industry and on how authors can manage their profiles in the digital age.

Our guest on November 15 is Marion Sinclair, course alumni and Chief Executive of Publishing Scotland, the representative body of Scottish publishers. Following Marion on November 22 will be Lindsey Fraser, literary agent and consultant. The programme closes on November 29 with Scott Conan of Better World Books on socially responsible bookselling.

Attendance at all visiting speaker sessions is free but there is limited space. Please email frances.sessford@stir.ac.uk to book a place.