Library writing workshop series features authors and agents
By Susan Miura
Blooming crocuses and crabapple buds signal more than a seasonal change at the Schaumburg Township District Library, where a series of writing workshops takes place every spring. “Inside Writing and Publishing” presents opportunities for writers to learn techniques, gain valuable insight, and improve skills with guidance from seasoned authors and agents. All of these special programs are free, with the option of attending one or multiple sessions. Registration is required. Register by calling (847) 923-3347 or stopping by the Information Desk on the library’s second floor.
“Inside Writing and Publishing” kicks off at 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 2, with “50 Shades of Dead,” an interactive workshop taught by mystery author Luisa Buehler. Participants will learn about unusual plot devices and creative methods of murder. Buehler is author of the Grace Marsden Mystery Series and hails from the Chicago area.
Thinking about self-publishing? Come to “Formatting for E-Publishing” at 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 16, in the Adult Classroom. Multi-indie-published Ann Macela will provide the ground work for what needs to be considered in preparing your manuscript for e-publishing. A basic knowledge of MS Word is essential.
Stimulate your creativity by attending “The Stories Inside You” from 7-9 p.m., Tuesday, April 30, in the Adult Classroom. In this hands-on workshop, writers will create short scenes based on exercises from the prestigious Iowa Writer’s Festival, then receive feedback. Participants will also learn sustainable techniques to avoid writer’s block.
Considering an agent? Not sure if that’s the right way to go? Come to “Finding and Working with a Literary Agent” at 7 p.m., Thursday, May 9, in the Rasmussen North Room. Lead by Danielle Egan-Miller, one of Chicago’s top literary agents, this program will offer an overview on what literary agents do, what they look for, and how to determine if you need or want one. She will also offer tips on how to approach an agent or write a query letter.
“The life of a writer is a solitary one,” said Susan Gibberman, head of Reader Services at the library. “But there’s a wealth of information out there that will aid you in the writing process. If you’re a writer looking for inspiration, encouragement, or guidance, mark your calendar for this series of free writing seminars, either here at Schaumburg or at one of the other libraries with whom we coordinate these programs.” Fliers with all of the offered programs are available at the library.
If your head is full of stories just bursting to make their way to the written page, if you fantasize about seeing your name on a book cover, or just want to share your stories with family and friends, come to “Inside Writing and Publishing.” Remember, you can come to any number of the workshops and they are all free. Just remember to register by calling (847) 923-3347.