Serving Writers Since 1921
About the Canadian Authors Association
A National Organization with a Local Presence
The Canadian Authors Association (CAA) is a national organization with a local presence dedicated to promoting a flourishing community of writers across Canada and to encourage works of literary and artistic merit.
The organization does this by:
- establishing and maintaining professional standards,
- promoting professionalism and good practices,
- providing opportunities for professional development,
- promoting the fair and equitable treatment of writers,
- working in partnership with other relevant organizations, and
- promoting awareness of Canada's writing and publishing environment.
Significant Contributions
The CAA, founded to deal with such issues as copyright, has a remarkable history and significant contributions to Canadian writing including a leading role in the recognition of literary talent.
About Public Lending Right
In 1946, the Canadian Authors Association began a campaign to bring a Public Lending Right program to Canadian authors. Other Canadian writing groups joined the campaign, and the PLR program was finally created in 1986. Payments to authors began in 1987. The Canadian Authors Association is represented on the Executive Committee of the PLR.
PLR still serves to collect payments to Canadian authors whose books are read and borrowed in Canadian libraries.
The Public Lending Right Commission started mailing cheques annually to registered writers of books in public libraries in 1986. Thus for 25 years, the PLR program has been “Celebrating the contribution of Canadian authors to our culture.” — PLR Executive Secretary, Michelle Legault.
PLR — with its own budget — is under the umbrella of the Canada Council.
Join Us!
"Writers Helping Writers" is more than a motto — it expresses our commitment to beginning and established writers alike.
If you are serious about your writing you will want to become a CAA member to obtain the greatest benefit and access to the wide range of services and networking available only to our members.
Membership is available to both professional and aspiring writers as well as to those wishing to support Canadian writers and writing.
Join online with our secure payment system (or by phone or by mail).
Health & Dental Benefits for Writers
The Writers' Coalition program provides affordable drug, health and dental care protection for writers.
Check out the program details, including:
- eligibility (CAA members qualify);
- the program details & how to enroll; and
- making a claim.
Thank You to Our Supporters
The Canadian Authors Association gratefully acknowledges the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the Ontario Arts Council and all members who give generously of their time and/or dollars.
The Canadian scenic images on this page and throughout the site and are provided by our members and used with permission.
www.CanAuthors.org/index.html
Updated January 31, 2012
