Writer-in-Residence program

The Writer-in-Residence (WiR) program runs every year from October 1 to April 30. The WiR offers new and emerging writers from Manitoba free one-on-one consultations. They also offer group workshops (online and in library branches) and host a writing circle. Visit our Programs & Events calendar for workshop details and to register. Check back often for new programs.    

The WiR’s office is in the Millennium Library.     

Callouts to be the next WiR happen every year in May or June.  

The WiR program is funded by the City of Winnipeg, Winnipeg Public Library, the Friends of the Winnipeg Public Library and Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism. 

 

Nora Decter, Writer-in-Residence for 2024-25 with the Winnipeg Public Library

Nora Decter, WiR 2024-2025

Nora Decter is a writer and educator living on Treaty 1 Territory. She grew up in the North End and studied writing at York University and Stony Brook University. She then returned to be an instructor at the University of Winnipeg.

Nora is the author of the YA novel How Far We Go and How Fast, winner of the 2019 Kobo Emerging Writer Prize in literary fiction. Her debut adult novel What’s Not Mine is a darkly funny exploration of addiction and inheritance against the backdrop of the fentanyl crisis. Nora will be available for consultations from October 2024 through April 2025. 

How to submit works for review to the WiR

Submit works for review from October 1 to March 15. The program is open to Manitobans only.  

Submission guidelines 

Manuscripts must follow strict submission guidelines: 

  • typed in 12-point font
  • prose is double-spaced, no more than 15 pages  
  • poetry is single-spaced, no more than six poems 

Include a cover letter with:

  • a brief description of your writing background
  • any specific feedback you would like
  • all contact information including an email address 

Ways to submit

There are three ways to submit work for review: 

  1. Email your submission to wpl.writerinres@gmail.com 
  2. Drop off a copy at the Reader Services desk at Millennium Library 
  3. Mail a copy to:   

Writer-in-Residence
c/o Millennium Library, Reader Services 
251 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB R3C 3P5

Printed submissions must be copies as they will not be returned. The submissions are shredded after consultations are complete.  

The WiR will review your submission and reply with feedback. You can also meet by appointment. Appointments can be in person, by phone or online (Zoom). Please note that it can take up to 4-6 weeks to reply to your submission.  

The program is entirely free, thanks to our sponsors.

 

History of the Writer-in-Residence program

Since 1985, the WiR program has connected emerging and aspiring writers with established writers. Learn more about its history. 

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