The Pennsylvania Library Association (PaLA) is planning a statewide author/illustrator blitz on Thursday, November 6, 2014 with authors/illustrators committing to providing free programs in libraries-schools, public & academic. They will match up libraries with author/illustrators based on feedback provided through this survey. You can decide the level to which you’d like to participate, the PA counties you’d be willing to travel to if doing an on-site visit (virtual is also an option!), and the age groups you are most comfortable working with. The program could take a variety of forms: a reading, a lecture about the topic of your book, a demonstration (examples: cooking demonstration by a cookbook author), a presentation of writing/illustrating tips, a talk about your writing career, a workshop, etc.
Even if you’re not interested in doing a writing-related program in conjunction with a library this November, I strongly urge you to submit a testimonial. PA Forward is an incredible initiative that is redefining the way libraries are viewed in our Pennsylvania communities. If you’ve ever used a library during the creation or performance of your work, now is your chance to give back by providing a advocacy testimonial.
Below is some information from the official event press release:
The Pennsylvania Library Association is proud to introduce the “PA Forward Speak Up! Authors & Illustrators Speak Up for PA Libraries” initiative. This initiative places Pennsylvania authors and illustrators in the spotlight, increasing support for libraries everywhere during a critical period of economic downturn. As a partner and spokesperson, your involvement can help fuel the dialogue on Pennsylvania libraries and the key role these institutions play in the economic, social and educational fabric of our state. Your leadership comes at a true watershed moment for libraries everywhere. With Americans facing economic uncertainty, high unemployment rates, and the dizzying pace of an increasingly digital world, libraries remain the great equalizer. While statistics show us that library usage is up in unprecedented numbers, reports from libraries around the country tell us that tight city and state budgets are closing library doors, reducing collections and resources, and ultimately reducing access when it’s needed most.
The library community is keenly aware of this irony, but our message is heard best when it’s delivered by those outside of the library, particularly those who can speak eloquently and articulately about the value of libraries and the issues facing them. And who better than individuals whose works are the very reason we have libraries: authors like you. Authors are natural allies of libraries. You appreciate them as a quiet space to write or do research and you understand that the library that houses your books immortalizes your words and ideas.
If you have any questions feel free to comment on this article or email [email protected]. We’re so excited at the thought of writers/illustrators invading Pennsylvania libraries statewide on November 6th—don’t miss out on this opportunity!
I’m an author in Doylestown, PA and would like to participate. I’ve been very active with the Bucks County Free Library Doylestown branch.
I’m an author in Doylestown, Bucks County, PA and would like to participate. My books are mysteries, adult, but G-rated and suitable for young people too.
Reblogged this on allohnauthor.
I’m an author/illustrator/musician working in Pennsylvania (Bucks County), and though I took the survey there wasn’t a section there for artists or musicians. I’d be more than willing to discuss those disciplines.