This contribution to the EFAH - Interarts Study on Cultural Cooperation in Europe, presents the main challenges and trends facing cultural cooperation in the field of books and reading. It examines the main actors involved in promoting cultural cooperation in this field including governments, professional networks, cultural institutes, industry representatives, translation centres, book fairs, etc. Some case studies and list of key events in Europe are presented. The author found that national cultural policy frameworks directly influence the possibilities for the development of international cultural cooperation; bilateral agreements remaining the key instrument. Of note, is the blurring of roles and boundaries between those that initiate cooperation and those that implement its activities. Key recommendations concern providing equal opportunities between EU member states and accession countries to participate in cultural cooperation programmes aimed at the books and reading sector such as access to translation funds, training and mobility.