Library offers creative writing groups for teens, adults

MOUNT VERNON — The Public Library of Mount Vernon and Knox County has resumed its Teen Writing program and #KnoxWrites revision workshops.

The program for teens is open to aspiring writers ages 12-18 and meets from 4:30-5:30 p.m. on Thursdays in the Solarium at the Main Library. Each week, teens will gather to write poetry and prose, with library intern Janein Brookes leading the workshop in collaboration with Development and Writing Program Manager Jamie Lyn Smith-Fletcher. Snacks, swag and supplies are provided, and no registration is required. The Teen Writing program runs through April 27 and welcomes young creatives of all backgrounds and interests.

The library also offers the #KnoxWrites revision workshop, which will run through Feb. 23 at 6:30 p.m. in the Main Library Solarium. The workshop is open to emerging writers age 18 and older, and all genres are welcome: poets, memoirists, essayists, journalists and folks exploring writing as a hobby. In addition, #KnoxWrites will meet weekly to discuss writing tips and strategies and write a couple of short pieces to share with the group. 

Participants are provided a complimentary copy of Matt Bell’s best-selling writing manual, “Refuse to Be Done: How to Write and Rewrite a Novel in Three Drafts.” Although the book focuses on novel writing, the guidance provided by Bell applies to virtually everyone interested in learning to compose and prepare work for publication. Advance registration is required at http://bit.ly/3Ybkkks.

“All writers are welcome to join our adult and teen programs, regardless of experience – and no experience is required,” Smith-Fletcher said. “Just curiosity, openness and interest. We hope to provide practical support, good company and a fun, creative environment for folks at all levels.”

For more information, visit www.knox.net, email knoxwrites1@gmail.com or call 740-392-BOOK, ext. 259. As with all library events, these programs are free and open to the public, but advance registration is required for the KnoxWrites workshops. Both programs meet in person at the Main Library, 201 N. Mulberry St., Mount Vernon.