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
  • connect with the goals of the residency to build a supportive writing community
  • 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 Space

The Writers’ Room is a beautiful, contemporary light-filled space on Level 9 of the Central Library, 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 on the room, and ambient noise and occasional conversations can be heard in the space.

Access to the room is via key code, and is available only to the residents selected.

Level 9 can be reached by elevator, stairs, or by escalator plus ramp or stairs. The closest restrooms are on Level 7.

Other Spaces to Write at the Central Library

The Level 10 Reading Room is an excellent open space for researching and writing. For more suggestions of places to write at the Central Library, please ask a staff person at one of the reference desks.
 
Questions about the Writers’ Room and the residency? Please email us via Ask Us.

Writers' Room Residency Application

The 2024 Writer's Room application process is closed. Applications for the 2025 Writers' Room Residency will open in late fall of 2024.