Library series looks at writing, publishing a book
"If my doctor told me I had only six minutes to live, I wouldn't brood. I'd type a little faster."
If you agree with this sentiment expressed by the late Isaac Asimov, science and science fiction author, then you are probably already a writer. That doesn't mean you're rich, famous, or even published. It simply means you get it.
You have stories that refuse to be contained in your head. You hear conversations between your characters while driving, walking, or taking a shower. Sound familiar? If so, come to the "Inside Writing and Publishing" workshops beginning May 4 at the Schaumburg Township District Library, 130 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg.
"Inside Writing and Publishing" is an annual series of free seminars on specific writing and publishing topics offered from March through May by North suburban area libraries.
This year's topics at STDL will cover sustaining creativity, writing query letters, time management for writers, legal issues, and more. All of the programs are free, but do require registration. To register, call (847) 923-3347 or visit the Information Desk on the library's second floor.
You can also sign up online at www.schaumburglibrary.org/about/events. Click on "Adult Events" for the calendar of programs.
"There is a wealth of information that will aid people in the writing process, whether you've been writing for some time or just beginning," said Susan Gibberman, STDL's head of adult fiction. "If you're a writer looking for inspiration or guidance, mark your calendar for this series of free seminars, either at Schaumburg or one of the other libraries with whom we coordinate these programs."
The workshops kick off with "What Every Writer Needs to Know About the Law" from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, May 4, in the library's Adult Classroom. Attendees will learn about different forms of legal protection available for writers. Attorney Rejean Morgan will explain the legality of using other people's work in your own writing, how to hire others to work for you, and what to do if you believe someone is infringing on your work.
If you're ready, or almost ready, to pitch your manuscript, don't miss "Seven Secrets to Writing the Perfect Query Letter" from 7-9 p.m. Thursday, May 12, in the Adult Classroom. National best-selling author Bret Nicholaus and Literary Agent/Acquisitions Editor Joe Durepos will demonstrate the essential steps and little known tips for crafting query letters that demand the attention of agents and publishers. Submitting a great query letter is the critical first step toward publication.
The third workshop, "Writing the Next Chapter," will be from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, May 18, in the Adult Classroom. Three successful novelists will help writers figure out where to start, how to sustain creativity, and the best paths toward publication.
Mystery writer Patricia Skalka, Literary Fiction author Lynn Sloan, and Young Adult novelist Joyce Burns Zeiss will share their stories while offering insight and encouragement.
Our busy world can steal away time to write, but author Allie Pleiter will help writers make time for their craft in "Chunky Method of Time Management for Writers" from 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 24, in the Adult Classroom. Based on her book, the "Chunky Method," the presentation will highlight the nuts and bolts of how to set goals and deadlines, tackle the process of professional creativity and more.
With a useful mix of the practical, the inspirational and the nitty-gritty, Pleiter will give aspiring or working writers the tools they need to make the magic happen.
If you are a writer, whether seasoned, novice, or just beginning the journey, you're sure to find the practical information and encouragement you need at the "Inside Writing and Publishing" workshops. Sign up for one, two or all, and bring your muse along for the ride.