Writer & Author's Symposium
Writer & Author's Symposium
Save the Date: September 20, 2025, 10am - 5pm
We're now accepting applications for the 2025 Symposium!
Dayton Metro Library's Writer and Author's Symposium is an event intended to inspire writers, motivate authors, and engage readers. With this year’s theme of Read, Write, Explore, we invite you to dive into a full day of discovery as we connect our community with the rich talent of local writers and authors. Please join us for workshops, mini writing-themed activities, and an exploration of local authors. During each workshop, the audience is invited to actively listen in as writers share what inspires their writing and what shapes their creativity. Books by local authors will also be available for sale.
This event is a celebration of storytelling, and the day is dedicated to inspiring writers, motivating authors, and engaging readers from all walks of life. We’re thrilled to invite local writers and authors to be part of this exciting event and to connect with a passionate, literary-minded community.
Featured Writers Application
Applications Open: May 19 - July 11
We are currently accepting applications for Featured Writers. Those selected will have a special opportunity to share their work with the public, engage directly with readers, promote and sell their books, and benefit from pre-event publicity through our platforms.
If you’re ready to share your voice, connect with readers, and celebrate the power of words, we’d love to hear from you. You can read the full guidelines and apply online here.
Facilitator Application
Applications Open: May 19 - July 11
Dayton Metro Library is looking for writers, publishers, and editors to critique an Emerging Writer's first 10 pages. This critique will cover pacing, tone, narrative style, and overall feel of the piece. This is intended for emerging writers who have not been published or are entering a new field.
Emerging Application
Applications Open: June 25 - July 25
Writing in a vacuum can be lonely. This is your chance to get feedback on your work. Our facilitators have a wealth of industry experience, so you'll receive feedback and will be able to ask questions in this one-on-one session. Spots available for this program are limited. Applicants will be accepted in order of application and availability of facilitators.
2025 Workshops
Demystifying Publishing
Instructor: Shelley Mann Hite - Thurber House
Community Room, 10 - 10:50am
Ever wonder what role a publisher plays in getting a book from a writer's desk to bookstore shelves? Join us for an informative and engaging session that pulls back the curtain on the publishing industry. Whether you're an aspiring author, a curious reader, or simply interested in how the literary world works, this program will explore the many responsibilities of publishers, including editing, design, marketing, distribution, and more. We'll discuss the differences between traditional, indie, and self-publishing models, and give insight into how books are selected, shaped, and brought to life.
Shelley Mann Hite is a Columbus, Ohio-based writer and editor. Her work has been published in The New York Times, The Rumpus, HuffPost, Motherwell, Stonecrop Review, and she is working on a memoir manuscript. She is a prose editor for Typehouse Literary Magazine and co-founder of the Columbus Women’s Writing Group. She got her start in journalism and previously was an editor at Columbus Crave and Columbus Alive. www.shelleymannhite.com
Beginner Writer Workshop
Build the Foundation for Your Fiction Story Through Characters & Plot
Instructor: Colleen Green
Community Room, 11 - 11:50am
During this course, we will talk about character and plot and how they are connected. Writers will answer questions about their characters and plot in their potential story in their notebooks or laptops. Colleen will give examples of answers to these questions to point the audience in the right direction. Time will be given to answer each question. Even those who do not have a path for their stories may find ideas to bring their characters to life in their words. By the end of this seminar, beginner writers will have the building blocks to start their rough draft of their short story or novel.
Colleen Green lives in Miamisburg, Ohio. She is the author of romantic suspense books in the Amber Milestone Series. She is a public speaker on the topic of writing fiction and loves to meet fellow writers of all genres. She has been a guest speaker at the Imaginarium Convention in Kentucky and at Dayton Metro Library.
From Story to Sketch
Finding the Right Illustrator, Designer, or Cover Artist for Your Book
Instructor: Tanela Hicks
Community Room, 1 - 1:50pm
In this workshop, you'll learn how to find, evaluate, and collaborate with freelance illustrators and designers using platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and Reedsy. Whether you're self-publishing or just getting started, this program will walk you through the essentials of working with service providers. Exploring consulting services will empower and inform your creative vision. We’ll cover:
- How to craft an effective illustrator job post
- The pros and cons of popular freelance platforms
- Budgeting tips for illustrations and project timelines
- How to communicate your artistic vision clearly
Tanela Hicks is the Program Manager for Dayton Metro Library, where she leads the development and implementation of innovative programs that engage diverse community members. With over 15 years of experience as a community educator and information technology consultant, Tanela brings a unique blend of technical expertise and a passion for lifelong learning. Her work focuses on bridging digital divides, fostering inclusive access to information, and empowering individuals through education and technology. A strong advocate for community-driven solutions, Tanela continually seeks opportunities to connect people with the resources they need to thrive.
Title: Ready, Set, Launch!
Tables, Promotions, Books, Oh My!
Instructor: Jen Knox- Thurber House
Community Room, 2 - 2:50pm
You’ve written your book—now what? Join us for a dynamic workshop designed to help authors, especially indie and self-published writers, prepare for a successful book launch. We'll explore what it means to introduce your book to the world with impact and confidence.
Topics will include ways to self-marketing strategies, creative promotional tools, and building your author brand. You'll also learn how to find and prepare for tabling opportunities at book fairs, community events, and pop-up markets—turning appearances into valuable engagement with readers.
Whether you're launching your first book or looking to boost visibility for an existing title, this session offers practical advice, insider tips, and a space to ask questions and connect with other writers.
Jen Knox is the Founder of Unleash Creatives and an educator at Ohio State University. Her books include We Arrive Uninvited (Steel Toe Books Award Winner) and The Glass City (Press Americana Prose Winner). She received a grant from the Ohio Arts Council to work on a collection of essays tentatively titled About the Work. Jen's latest novel, Chaos Magic, was released by Kallisto Gaia Press in February 2025. She also blogs about writing and mindfulness at Here We Are.