One of the greatest resources your public library has is the strength of the writers in your community. Your city possesses a social, cultural, and historical identity unique to the streets and neighborhoods that run through it. Local writers infuse their works with the flavors, nuances, and experiences specific to the region. Libraries that support and showcase these voices create space for inclusive storytelling, expand the local literary landscape, and provide readers with fresh perspectives of their own surroundings. 

Whether it’s a panel discussion of well-established authors discussing the craft or a debut author having a small book signing, libraries provide a space where community members can engage and connect with one another. Read on to discover ways you can support the local writers in your community. 

5 ways to support the local writers in your community 

Book signings and author events 

Writers love meeting readers and readers love meeting writers. Book signings and author events bring these two groups together in their shared love of books.  

When it comes to author events, there are so many formats outside of traditional book signings. One of my favorite author events I’ve attended is Books & Cooks at Madison Public Library. Readers can buy books from local authors while also sampling tasty treats from nearby restaurants! 

Hold write-ins and writing workshops 

You most likely already have writers who come to your library to write in a distraction-free environment. Here in Cleveland, writers of all ages and experience can visit the William N. Skirball Writers’ Center at Cuyahoga County Public Library.  

Of course, not every library has the space available to provide a dedicated spot for writers like CCPL. There are still plenty of opportunities to build writing-related programs into your calendars, such as having a local author host a writing workshop or by having a structured time set aside in a meeting room where writers can gather for an hour to write alongside each other. 

Host panel discussions 

One thing writers love is hearing from other writers about their process, be it the writing process or their experiences getting published. Readers also love getting a behind-the-scenes view of how writers work. From discussions on the benefits of self-publishing and traditional publishing; to differences between writing fiction, non-fiction, and poetry; to gathering a group of mystery or romance writers to discuss the art of the craft of their genre, the possibilities are endless. 

Add their books to your collection 

This will depend on your collection development policies, but whenever possible it’s always beneficial to authors – local and otherwise – to have their books available in the library. 

For our library partners here in Northeast Ohio, we’ve put together a recommended list in Marketplace of local authors. You can view and shop the list here.  

Feature books by local authors 

Creating a curated collection in OverDrive or putting books on display in your physical location are two easy and effective ways to introduce readers to authors local to them. One of my favorite things about reading books by Cleveland authors is recognizing the locations and businesses they mention in the book. With a featured collection, your patrons might discover a new favorite author who also happens to live in the area!

About the author: Jill is a Marketing & Communications Specialist on the North America Public Library Marketing Team. A former librarian, she joined OverDrive in 2015. Outside of the office she can be found writing, hanging out with her cats, collecting more Tarot decks than she has room for, and playing competitive pinball. Her favorite genre is something she calls “Murder at an educational institution that involves a close-knit group of suspicious characters.”