I had the privilege to be the Library's Writer in Residence during the summer of 2024. After ten years of self-publishing, I thought I had advice to give and experiences to share. I knew a couple of the previous Writers in Residence. They told me to expect anything and I did. The needs of each writer I mentored was different. The questions and desires were as different as the people who came. I hope I was able to provide them with ideas to continue their writing journey. When I was starting my writing journey, I found discussing ideas with others was the most important part. No writer is an island.
Even though each writer's project was different, they all had the common goal of wanting to create a quality work that others would want to read. The writers ranged in age from a nine year-old author-illustrator who wanted to create a picture book based on a poem she wrote for the Arizona State Poetry Society (ASPS) competition (I’m president of the Tucson branch) to several 80-somethings, with all ages in-between. One of the writers was exploring videos, which took me back to my days of audio theater, while another man’s writings might be more effective as song lyrics. There was some despair over the amount of work it takes to self-publish a book and excitement that it was possible to do by the writer. No matter which path a writer takes, self or traditional, publishing a book takes work.
Many of the consultations discussed self-publishing and the opportunities it provides to writers whose works would probably not be of interest to traditional publishers. The world can always use more books!
I also enjoyed my workshops, having the opportunity to connect with groups of people. Since people had had different experiences in their writing careers, lively discussions ensued with greater sharing of information. I learned new information as well!
I also learned a great deal about the work of the librarians in the libraries which are, in fact, community centers. Everyone was welcoming, energetic, and knowledgeable. If you haven’t been to your local library lately, I encourage you to go. If you are a regular at the library, I encourage you to further explore all the opportunities it offers.
As a biologist, I would describe the local library as a keystone species and an indicator of the health of the community.
Thank you for the opportunity,
Elaine A. Powers
