Local Author Jaclyn Desforges Next Writer in Residence
Starting the week of September 12 until April 2024, Jaclyn is available to mentor aspiring writers Tuesdays at McMaster University, Chester New Hall, Room 312 and Thursdays at Central Library, 4th Floor Program Room, 10am-6pm. The residency also gives the author time to develop her own works in progress.
“I can’t wait to work with new and emerging writers from the Hamilton area and beyond, and to dive deep into my own creative practice with the support and encouragement of McMaster and HPL,” said Jaclyn.
The program is supported by Hamilton Public Library, McMaster Faculty of Humanities and McMaster University Library. It started in 1999. Jaclyn is the 26th Writer in Residence. She is the author of poetry book Danger Flower and picture book Why Are You So Quiet? She is also the winner of the 2022 Hamilton Literary Award for Poetry, 2022 City of Hamilton Creator Award, 2020 Hamilton Emerging Artist Award for Writing and the 2018 RBC/PEN Canada New Voices Award.
“As a poet, fiction and non-fiction writer, Jaclyn brings a wealth of creativity, energy and vision to this role, and we are excited both to see what emerges in her own writing this year as well as how emerging writers in our region grow in their own creative accomplishments,” said Daniel Coleman, Professor of English and Cultural Studies at McMaster University.
“McMaster University Library is proud to be a partner in this program that invests in Canadian authors, supporting not only the development of their works, but also the mentorship of local writers,” said Vivian Lewis, McMaster University Librarian.
“Hamilton Public Library takes pride in shining a spotlight on local talent and the Writer in Residence program is sure to expand the contributions to this robust collection,” said Cindy Poggiaroni, Director, Collections and Program Development.
You can also meet Jaclyn at a Welcome Reception Sep 12, 6:30pm at Central Library’s 4th Floor. She will also facilitate a Writing Circle Oct 19, 4:30pm at Central Library’s 4th Floor. Details about more Writer-in-Residence events at hpl.ca/writer-in-residence.
About the Program
The Mabel Pugh Taylor Writer in Residence program is led by McMaster University’s Department of English and Cultural Studies of the Faculty of Humanities in partnership with McMaster University Library and Hamilton Public Library. It is supported by the Taylor family.
About Hamilton Public Library
The Hamilton Public Library is a vibrant hub for information and culture, providing our diverse community the Freedom to Discover. As one of the largest library systems in Canada, Hamiltonians will discover something new at our 23 locations, Bookmobile, or through our extensive digital collections. Visit us online at hpl.ca. Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @hamiltonlibrary and Facebook at HamiltonPublicLibrary.
Media Contact
Shelley McKay
Manager, Communications, HPL
905.546.3200 x5934
905.973.1847
