Readings & Talks

Each year, we sponsor or co-sponsor between 30 and 40 literary events. These events are free, open to the public, and may include author conversations, poetry readings, book launches, and more. Because we have a small staff and manage multiple programs simultaneously, we are unable to assist with every event we’d like to support. To guide us in our decision-making, we’ve developed the following criteria to help us prioritize which events best align with our mission.

If you are putting together an upcoming literary event and are interested in having MWPA sponsor or co-sponsor it, please read through the criteria and fill out the form below.

 Highest Priority Level:

• The quality of writing is exceptional. The release of a new book from this author is a big Maine event.

• The event allows MWPA to partner with a community organization we’d like to build a stronger relationship with OR one that we work with regularly and want to continue our strong partnership with (e.g., Portland Public Library, SPACE, Mechanics’ Hall).

• The event will showcase an exciting new voice or story from a writer from an underrepresented community. Sponsoring the event aligns with our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion goals and helps us broaden our members’ perspectives of the diversity of writing and stories in the world.

High Priority Level:

• The event features a writer who has engaged in exceptional community or literary service and/or has volunteered extended hours for MWPA, perhaps as a board member, instructor, or long-time GATHER volunteer.

• The event features a Maine Literary Award winner.

• The quality of writing is promising (e.g., strong first book), AND supporting and promoting this event would have a significant impact on the number of attendees the writer would draw.

• The event will showcase an exciting new voice or story from a writer who is writing in a genre MWPA would like to engage more (e.g., graphic novel or spec fic).

• At least one MWPA staff person is available to attend the event and has the time and capacity to assist with planning and promotion prior to it.

Reminder:

Anyone who is a member of MWPA can promote free literary events in our weekly e-newsletter, The Peavey. Event listing submission guidelines can be found here. And any member with a new book release can submit information for inclusion in our monthly Ex Libris Maine publication. Ex Libris Maine submission guidelines can be found here.