Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library
Apply to be The Library Foundation’s Writer-in-Residence for 2027! Applications are now open.
About the Program
The Library Foundation has sponsored an annual Writer-in-Residence at the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library since 2014. The Writer-in-Residence serves as CHPL's literary ambassador to the community by fostering engagement between the Library and local writers, providing instruction on the craft of writing, both online and in-person, and serving as the Library’s representative in the local literary arts scene.
The selected Writer-in-Residence candidate receives a $10,000 stipend and promotion through the program. Submit your online statement of interest and qualifications before the Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026 deadline.
Funds to support the Writer-in-Residence program are provided through the generous donation of a private donor and The Library Foundation.
During the residency period, the Writer-in-Residence is required to:
- Conduct 2 - 4 public writing workshops at CHPL locations.
- Hold bi-monthly programs (6) at a Library location or virtually, through office hours or other engagement opportunities
- Connect with the community online via 4-6 pieces of content, in some combination of: video, blog post, newsletter article/interview, etc.
- Host a bi-monthly podcast
- Host, appear or speak at other Library and community events and participate in Library promotions, as needed
- Complete a written work that can be shared at the end of the residency
The successful candidate is:
- A resident in southwest Ohio (priority given to Hamilton County residents)
- At least 18 years of age
- Is actively engaged in the local literary arts community
- Possesses a record of past achievements, strong artistic merit, and a commitment to advancing the literary arts
- Has experience teaching writing or conducting writing workshops
- Any writer may apply, but priority is given to writers in the following genres:
- Fiction
- Narrative non-fiction, including history, biography, and memoirs
- Children's literature
- YA literature
- Graphic novels
- Poetry
Learn about all the requirements, expectations, and how to apply to be the 2026 Writer-in-Residence on our website.
Mackenzie Manley is currently reading "Yesteryear" by Claire Caro Burke.
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