Inkslingers: Writers in the Libraries
Increased knowledge of and interest in the writing process; increased exposure to a variety of writers and writing styles; exposure to seasoned writers and writing techniques for interested beginning/intermediate writers offered at small and large libraries in the county
We offered a total of 4 programs – two writing instruction classes, and two author visits – at 4 libraries during October and November. (We also included the Marja Mills Club Book program as part of the Inkslingers series, but attendance and evaluations were recorded elsewhere in MELSA.) A total of 153 people attended the four programs, and roughly 80% rated the programs a 5 and the other 20% rated them a 4 (on a scale of 1-5, 5 being “excellent”). Interestingly, for about half of the program attendees, this was the first time they had ever attended a library program.
The author programs were especially popular. Many people came just to hear their favorite author speak, but writers got a lot out the author programs as well, as their comments reflect when asked, “What did you like best about the program?”
"Hearing the author’s perspective on books and reading"
"What his writing is based on – there are heroes -- good triumphs"
"Explaining how locations look in books"
"How he puts his books together"
Overall, attendees requested more local or Minnesota author programs, and more and longer writing classes.
City of Prior Lake
Local Friends of the Library groups