This guide features programs and resources available at the library and beyond to help writers at every stage of their process. It is intended to provide a starting point to help writers discover the types of resources they may find useful. If you are looking for other information, please contact us.
Resources @PPL
This section highlights resources available specifically through the library. Some may require a library card, as noted. These or similar resources may also be available via other libraries.
- Upcoming library programs for writers – find a schedule of writing groups, poetry readings, and other writing-centered programs hosted by the library. Library programs usually do not require a library card to attend.
- LinkedIn Learning (online resource) – includes courses for writing/publishing as well as related tech skills. Library card required for access.
- Oxford English Dictionary (online resource) – find exactly the right word for your next work in progress. Available for in-library use; library card required for remote access.
- Literary magazines – find inspiration or future places to submit pieces. Available for in-library use; library card required to check out the items.
- Literary Market Place – this print resource offers details and contact information for agents, editors, publishers, courses, prizes and much more. Available for in-library use; library card required to check out the item.
- Legal Information Reference Center (online resource) – find resources on topics including copyright and trademarks and access a wide library of downloadable legal forms and templates. Available for in-library use; library card required for remote access.
- Writing book list – a selection of titles in our collection.
- All library databases – find additional resources that may assist you with research or skills-building.
- Recorded PPL programs for writers – access recordings of past presentations on topics targeted to the craft and business of writing.
Professional Publications and Other Review Sources
These are some of the major publications that review books and/or provide information on publishing deals. Some also have blogs or other resources for authors.
- BookLife – focus on indie- or self-published works
- Booklist
- BookPage
- ForeWord Reviews – focus on indie- or self-published works
- Kirkus
- Library Journal
- Publisher’s Weekly: gives updates on book deals and acquisitions in addition to reviews.
Writing Organizations
It may be beneficial to join an organization or network with other authors who share your interests or goals in addition to less formal writing groups. A sampling is included here.
- Alliance of Independent Authors
- Association of Writers & Writing Programs
- The Authors Guild
- Community of Literary Magazines and Presses
- Mystery Writers of America
- New Jersey Authors’ Network
- New Jersey Romance Writers
- Nonfiction Authors Association
- Sisters in Crime
- Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators
- Speculative Literature Foundation
Blogs/Webinars/Other Publications
There are many blogs, courses, workshops and more for writers of all levels and genres including:
- The Authors Guild
- Brooklyn Book Festival archive
- Community of Literary Magazines and Presses
- Funds for Writers
- Hiveword
- Independent Author Project
- Jane Friedman
- The Kenyon Review courses for adults
- The Kenyon Review courses for young writers
- Kirkus Reviews Writers’ Center
- Manuscript Wish List
- Murphy Writing (Stockton University)
- OneStory
- Open Door Publications blog
- Poets & Writers
- Story Club with George Saunders
- Tin House workshops
- VONA
- Well-Storied
- Women in Publishing Summit webinars
- Women in Publishing Summit blog
- Writer Beware
- Writer’s Digest
- The Writers Studio @ Coffee House
Podcasts
As with blogs, there are many podcasts on writing, books and authors. Here are a few that focus on craft.
World Literature/Translation
If you are interested in writing in languages other than English or in the craft of translation, these resources provide more information.