Writing Advice Desk - Natasha Hampson

I was lucky enough to attend April’s Writing Advice Desk in Liverpool Central Library and get the inside scoop as to how it all works. Happening on the first Wednesday of each month it’s a chance to turn up and get some guidance from published authors!

I arrived at Central Library a little earlier than the 5:30 start to help get set up and ready for whoever may turn up. I put emphasis on the word ‘whoever’ because there are no restraints on this. Of course, it goes without saying that this is for writers but there is no limit on works or experience. It really is a chance for anyone to get advice on their writing, hear about any publishing opportunities and guidance in what to do next in the creative process.

Starting at 5:30pm and finishing at 7pm there is a good window of opportunity, whether you make the trip specifically for the desk or stop by after you finish work, it is very accessible.

The desk is situated on the second floor of the library and is usually headed by Dave Ward, co-founder of the Windows Project and Eleanor Rees, lecturer at Hope University. Both are published authors across poetry and prose. What an opportunity to have your writing looked at by successful people in the industry… for free!

Yes, this surprised me as well. With no financial benefit it really emphasises a passion for writing across all genres. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, a place where you can feel comfortable in sharing your projects. There is no waiting for someone to email you back in 3-5 working days about whether your work is good, you will gain on-the-spot insight in what you do well and opportunities that may be available.

Sitting in on April’s Advice Desk I got to see this in action. It was very refreshing to see individuals come up to the stand, take a seat and share what they were proud of. Dave and Eleanor created space for them to share a little bit about themselves, whether it be more about themselves as a writer or specifically the piece they brought with them.

After sharing, Dave and Eleanor were able to read through and offer constructive advice and direct them to what organisations may be interested in publishing. There is no time slot either, it goes without saying that it depends on the turn out which dictates time allocated to each person but there is a lot of freedom regarding when you turn up! As long as you turn up between 5:30-7pm you will get seen. Dave and Eleanor also kindly stay after 7pm if needed.

While April’s turn-out was not as large as previous months the few that did turn up gained some useful advice from both Dave and Eleanor. After lots of conversation and reading I left feeling a lot more enthused about my own writing. I’m excited to return to the Writing Advice Desk, not only to spectate but bring some of my work for Dave and Eleanor to critique as well.

It’s fair to say if you’re an aspiring writer in the Liverpool area then you do not want to miss this. Gaining insight on where to go next with your writing and upcoming publishing opportunities for just popping your head into the library with an excerpt of your novel, a couple of poems, or a few pages of a manuscript? Sounds like a low risk for a very high reward.

If I had to sum it up for you, the Advice Desk is like a bowl of chocolate covered strawberries, you’re probably going to keep coming back for more!

Words by Natasha Hampson, Student Placement at The Windows Project