The avj is the trade association for publishers of children's and young adult books, but also audio-visual media, calendars, BookPlus products, and much more for children and young people. Since its founding in 1950, more than 100 publishing houses from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland have become members.

Activities focus on representing the interests of its members in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, networking, as well as promoting children's and young adult literature and reading.