The 2026 BPL Writer-in-Residence term will take place from January 1 - June 30, 2026. We are seeking an accomplished writer local to central Ohio who can engage and inspire aspirational writers with diverse backgrounds, ages, and interests. During the six-month residency, the BPL Writer-in-Residence is required to:
- Lead a minimum of four (4) public writing workshops at the Bexley Public Library
- Coordinate at least two (2) additional programs at the Bexley Public Library
- Coordinate at least one (1) program designed for youth writers (grades 6-12) or conduct a school visit to a Bexley City Schools locations
- Record at least three (3) episodes of the BPL Podcast
- Write at least three (3) BPL Blog post entries
- Serve as a general liaison and ambassador between the Bexley Public Library and the local writing community. Helping to plan and promote Writer-in-Residence programming, offering suggestions for literary partnerships, and assisting with growing writing programming and resources at the Bexley Public Library.
- Complete a final review survey to provide feedback on the BPL Writer-in-Residence program and offer suggestions for building upon writing resources at the Bexley Public Library.
The 2026 BPL Writer-in-Residence is funded in part through an Ohio Arts Council ArtSTART grant. The selected BPL Writer-in-Residence will receive a $6,000.00 stipend, writing and work space accommodations at the Bexley Public Library, and promotion of their work and programming from the Bexley Public Library. Writers should complete the application by Sunday, August 31st, 2025 to be considered for the residency. The selection committee may ask for a brief in-person or virtual interview of the final candidates before selecting the BPL Writer-in-Residence.