King Township Public Library is extremely fortunate to have Canadian Children’s Book Writer, Sharon Jennings as our first ever Writer in Residence! This is a unique program for a library system the size of King and was only made possible through a grant from Ontario’s Ministry of Culture, Libraries Branch.

Sharon Jennings is from Toronto and besides writing Children’s books, she loves to read! Sharon has written several children’s books including, 43 Franklin the Turtle Stories, Bearcub and Mama, The Happily Ever Afternoon and No Monsters Here, plus many more! Sharon’s term with the King Township Public Library began on January 24th and will end May 16th. We are all extremely thrilled to have Sharon on board!

Some of you may ask “what is a Writer in Residence?” A writer in residence is an author who resides at a specific location for a period of time with accessibility for the public. In Sharon’s case she will be located in each of the 4 King Township Public Libraries. Sharon will be in the branches every Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. for “Writer in Residence Nights”, starting with the King library in February, Nobleton library in March, the Schomberg library in April and special visits to the Ansnorveldt library. During this time she will be accepting Children’s Book Manuscripts from the public for review and feedback.

In addition, Sharon will be conducting a workshop, entitled “The ABC’s of Writing Children’s Books.” This workshop will be of interest to those who are aspiring children’s book authors, or just want to learn more about the process of publication. The workshop will be offered at the King Library on March 31 at 1-3 p.m. and the Nobleton library on April 14 at 1-3 p.m. This workshop is free of charge! So please take advantage of this terrific opportunity and sign-up.

Are you a student who loves to write? Sharon will also be judging a Writing Contest put on by the King Township Public Library. There are two categories; short stories and poetry. The contest is for ages 8-18 and submissions will be accepted at each of the branches or by email k.england@king-library.on.ca. The contest closes on Wednesday, April 18 at 8:00 p.m. The prizes include publication in the summer edition of the Tapestry Magazine and on the library’s website. Please pick up a contest form at one of the branches or for further contest details and contest form go online to www.king-library.on.ca.

Sharon has already been busy visiting schools in King Township reading to the little ones and speaking to Writer’s Craft classes at the high schools. She just might be visiting your child’s school next!