News from library authorities:
Trafford
An interview with the co-ordinator of Hale Library Writers' Circle
Tell us a bit about yourself: what prompted you to set up a writers' group?
I went to a crime writers' evening at Hale Library. Initially because it was the genre I was writing, but during the Q&A session, I realised there were more aspiring writers in the area than I had originally thought. And as I find writing quite a solitary occupation, I thought it would be great to have access to like-minded individuals, so I asked if the library staff would be interested in helping me set up a writers' circle.
Surprised at the level of interest?
Although I thought there might have been some interest, I was very surprised to find that about 25 people had turned up. At one point I thought we wouldn't have enough chairs! The group has settled to having about 15 regular members.
How are the meetings structured?
It is a free group run by the members (it has a chairperson to keep things moving and to organise the sessions), and the sessions' formats are agreed within the group for 4-6 sessions in advance. We generally choose a topic to write on from suggestions. We submit our work in advance to other members by email and we all give our feedback at the next meeting. Topics so far include "Hollywood Paranoia; "Money" and comic pieces. We also have open sessions at which the members can have their work critiqued by the group. We also have had more formal evenings supported by Trafford with invited speakers.
Is there any particular genre that is more popular?
The group is mixed. We have novelists in all genres, poets and also writers for TV, theatre, cinema and magazines. Some specialise in children's fiction. Most of us are unpublished, but we do have a few writers who have been in magazines or small press publications and one who has recently self-published their work.
You have been on local radio earlier this year - an exciting foray into broadcasting!
We were contacted by BBC Radio Manchester and asked to appear on the chat show hosted by Phil Wood. We contributed to the part of the show which explored why interest in writing has suddenly increased. Three of us went along to the live broadcasting - exciting, nerve-racking, but the staff there put us at ease
How do you see the group developing in the future?
I hope that it will build on its great beginning and go from strength to strength. I also hope that it will increase its interaction with the local community. To this end we are taking part in a NYR event by doing readings of our own poetry later in the year.
Has the library service been helpful?
Excellent - I couldn't have asked for more. The team at Hale Library have been so enthusiastic and have helped on many levels. I would also like to mention the support from Diana Ashcroft who has been invaluable in providing support, guidance and contacts. Could it do more? I don't think so!
And finally, Denise, what about you personally? A novel in the pipeline, perhaps?
Like many in the group, I'm working on my first novel. It is a period crime piece set in Manchester. I have done a lot of research at the excellent archives in Manchester and I would like to develop this into a series as I have plenty of material.
For more information contact: Liz Waller on Tel: 0161 912 2891
Time To Read currently has a full time paid co-ordinator, supported by Arts Coucil of England and Museums, Libraries and Archives, North West.