This weekend, the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) invites the public to celebrate self-published and independent writers from across southern Vancouver Island.
From 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, May 24, the Central Branch at 735 Broughton St. in Victoria will welcome folks of all ages to check out a book display, part of the 10th Emerging Local Authors Collection.
The event will feature 111 new titles from 101 authors, reflecting the diverse voices and stories that shape the region.
"Since its inception, the initiative has highlighted more than 1,200 local authors and nearly 1,600 unique works, contributing to a vibrant and growing local literary landscape,” the GVPL, which serves 380,000 residents in 10 municipalities, said in a news release.
“The event will ... highlight GVPL’s continued support for emerging writers and community storytelling.”
GVPL CEO Maureen Sawa highlighted the event's importance in a 2023 statement to Victoria News.
“The Emerging Local Authors Collection supports and celebrates Greater Victoria’s rich writing culture. This initiative has become integral to our library’s commitment to supporting local talent and promoting books that might not be available through traditional channels. We are thrilled to provide a platform for these remarkable authors and their exceptional works,” she said.
Print books from the Emerging Local Authors Collection will be displayed at the library’s Central Branch and can be placed on hold for pickup at any of the GVPL's 12 locations.
