Writers’ Room
The Eulalie and Carlo Scandiuzzi Writers’ Room, located on Level 9 of the Central Library, offers a space for writers to work on their projects and access Library resources. Use of the room is through an application process for the Writers’ Room Residency.
Writers’ Room Residency
The Residency is intended to help individual writers with their projects while facilitating a supportive writing community. Writers’ Room Residents work in a variety of writing fields and genres, and are committed to using the space several days per month. We look for applicants who:
- Are currently pursuing a defined writing project
- Plan to use collections, reference and research assistance, and/or other resources available at the Central Library in support of their work
- Demonstrate commitment to the Library’s equity and inclusion goals through their work
- Have considered the nature of the space and if their own work style is compatible
- Can benefit from access to the Writers’ Room specifically with any challenges they face with working on their writing project
Writers granted a residency will have an orientation to the space, the Central Library, and Library resources available related to their projects.
About the Residency
How long does the residency last?
The residency lasts one year.
What does the residency include?
The residency includes:
- Access to a dedicated space on Level 9 of the Central Library during the library’s open hours.
- Two library-hosted resident-only gatherings.
- One public reading for residents to showcase their work.
- An optional biography feature on the Library’s website.
Are there deliverables, check-ins, or projects due as part of the residency?
No, the residency is a self-directed program intended to give writers space to grow and develop at their own pace, according to their own needs. Any participation in Library-hosted events is encouraged but optional.
Do Writers' Room Residents have after-hours or extra access to the Library or to its collections?
Residents have the same hours of access to the Central Library and to its collections as all patrons. Please note that the Seattle Room and the ZAPP Zine Room have special hours, and an appointment may be required to access materials in these collections.
Writers’ Room Residency Application
Applications have closed for the 2026-2027 cohort. Applications for the 2027-2028 cohort will open in late Fall of 2026.
Meet the Residents
Get to know the authors, journalists, poets, and writers of all kinds who make up our cohorts.
About the Space
The Writers’ Room is a shared writing space on Level 9 of the Central Library available only to residents. It is a contemporary light-filled space with large windows looking southwest. There are six writing desks, each with an adjustable chair, light and outlet. Writers are free to use any open desk during a visit.
There is no ceiling, and ambient noise and occasional conversations can be heard in the space. Many of our participating writers bring headphones.
Room access is through a secured door with a code that is shared with the yearly cohort.
Level 9 can be reached by elevator, stairs or by escalator plus ramp or stairs. The closest restrooms are on Level 7 (accessible via stairs, elevator, or ramp). Covered beverages are allowed in the Writers’ Room and writers are permitted to bring snacks if care is taken to fully clean up.
While in the Writers’ Room, residents have access to all the resources and reference materials of The Seattle Public Library.
Other Spaces to Write at the Central Library
The Level 10 Reading Room is an excellent open space for research and writing. For more suggestions of places to write at the Central Library, please ask staff at one of the reference desks.
Questions about the Writers’ Room and the residency? Please send us an email via Ask Us.