A Day at the Library

I spent five hours at the Paul Sawyier Public Library in Frankfort on Saturday, taking part in the fourth annual "Gathering of Authors."

About 30 authors participated in the event -- talking to readers and signing a few of their books. There was an assortment of writers -- nonfiction, fiction and poets. Some had books by the big New York publishing houses, others with small, independent presses, and a few were self-published authors.

As an author, I enjoy these kind of activities at libraries. At Paul Sawyier Public Library, with the help of the Friends of PSPL, writers such as Kim Edwards, Sena Jeter Naslund, Gwyn Hyman Rubio, Silas House, Frank X Walker, Crystal Wilkinson and many others have read from their works, discussed their books, and talked about writing with library patrons. Needless to say, we have a very good library where I live.

Let's be honest -- libraries are truly the virtual home for authors. It's the place where authors share space on the shelves. It's the place where most of our books will reside long after they are out of print and no longer available in book stores, and when we move on to that literary beyond.

I believe libraries are a wonderful venue for authors to meet the public and talk about their books and the craft of writing. And I think libraries should reach out and invite writers to readings, book clubs, and similar activities. It's a win-win proposition for everyone involved. Just ask the folks who attended the "Gathering of Authors."

Until the next time...