Authors hoped to motivate and inspire creativity

Concord community prepare to be creatively inspired! “The Library Reading Series” or “The Writer Speaks”, depending on who you ask, is a relatively new program at Concord. The programs’ goal is to bring established writers to the Campus Beautiful each month. 

It’s a joint effort between Connie Shumate, Director of Marsh Library, and Dr. Delilah O’Haynes, Professor of English, and the Division of Humanities, all which are spearheading the program.  

It’s a great way to showcase the Marsh Library’s new look, and for alumni authors to inspire students. O’Haynes says, “The series goes along well with the creative writing emphasis Concord offers. With the emphasis, students need to connect on a face-to-face level with others who have done it. It helps student writers to see that they can do it as well.”  

    Shumate alike says, “It is to be hoped that students will be inspired by the program; not only inspired to write, but to take that step further and work to have their creations published.  Publishing is a daunting task at its best.  Having successfully published authors share not only their writing process, but also some tips for how to wade through all of the red-tape associated with the world of publishing is an aim.”

Ellen Bolt was the first to present. She is the author of “Summer of the Dancing Bear”, and a Concord graduate of ’68, who visited on Oct. 10.  Last week, Tiffany Trent visited the campus, not as a part of this program per se, but as a young adult author. 

O’Haynes and Shumate hope to, in time, branch out. In April, an established Appalachian writer, Rita Sims Quillian, will be visiting the University.

O’Haynes says, “The program helps Concord with publicity and is an excellent opportunity for promotion and connects the public to Concord.”  She believes bringing in authors helps to make the publishing process seem doable and students feel a part of the writing community. 

 Another goal of the program is to provide educational presentations that will be of interest to locals and surrounding communities.  The Library and its programs are available for community members to utilize.  The program is expected to flourish, not necessarily by the number of authors each month, but rather by attraction of established authors with a reputation beyond Concord.  

Shumate personally would like to see more Appalachian/West Virginia authors of note become a part of the program. She says, “Having this program has been a goal of mine since coming to Concord. The idea got pushed to the 'back burner' for a time while all of the renovations were going on.  Thanks to collaboration with Dr. O' Haynes and the Humanities Division, it has become a reality,” Shumate said. 

     While there won’t be an author presenting in December due to the chaos of finals and end-of-semester project, the program will recommence in February. Tentatively, on Wednesday, Nov. 19 at 1 p.m., Concord will welcome the next author alumna. The program is sure to be a success. To attend future forums, look for announcements via emails from Shumate/the University providing authors, days, and times.