Writers' Groups

The Poetry Writers' Group at Mechanics' Institute is a dedicated forum for poets to develop their craft through the exchange of original work, constructive feedback, and discussion of technique. The group provides a supportive yet focused environment that fosters growth, encourages experimentation, and deepens engagement with the art of poetry.

Meeting every two weeks on Monday evenings via Zoom, this group offers a supportive and dedicated space for writers to share their work and receive thoughtful feedback. Members workshop new writing on a rotating basis, providing constructive critique and encouragement to help one another grow in craft and confidence. The group is currently seeking one additional member to join their circle and contribute to the ongoing exchange of ideas, perspectives, and creative energy.

This is a drop-in writers circle. Writers of all experience levels and genres are welcome. Whether you're working on a novel, journaling, or just getting started writing, this is your time to gather in community and cultivate your writing mind.

12:00 pm | We begin each session with a brief check-in. We'll provide a writing prompt, and everyone writes together silently for an hour.

1.15 pm | Everyone will have a chance to read aloud a short excerpt from what they wrote that day—not for critique, but to share what emerged. We'll celebrate everyone's contributions without criticism.

1:30pm | Closing.

Bring a notebook, a laptop, or whatever helps your words flow. Since it's lunchtime, you're welcome to bring a snack or lunch. If you arrive late, please enter quietly. Location: Library Classroom B or virtual via Zoom (contact Dylan below for the Zoom link!)

Facilitated by writer, editor, and mindfulness practitioner Dylan Tweney. Contact dylan@tweney.com if you have any questions.

Creative Projects Writers' meet weekly online for writers focused on creative projects—fiction, poetry, essays, and hybrid forms. Members share work, provide constructive feedback, and collaborate to develop their ongoing projects in a dedicated, professional environment.

The Non-Fiction Writers' group is dedicated to writers of memoir, essay, journalism, and other nonfiction forms. Members share drafts of their work and engage in thoughtful critique and discussion, focusing on clarity, narrative structure, voice, and factual accuracy. The group offers a structured space for writers to experiment, receive feedback, and grow in their craft while supporting each other in bringing real-life stories to life.

The Fiction Writers' group provides a focused, supportive environment for writers of fiction to develop their craft. Members share works-in-progress, typically exchanging pages in advance, and participate in in-depth discussions on story structure, character development, dialogue, and style. Meetings emphasize constructive feedback, collaborative learning, and the exploration of creative ideas, helping writers refine their voice and strengthen their storytelling. This group is currently at capacity.

The Friday Writers meet every other Friday afternoon for focused peer critique and discussion. Each session features up to four members sharing a maximum of ten pages, allowing time for thoughtful feedback and in-depth conversation around craft, style, and storytelling.

An open, drop-in writing session held weekly, writers of all backgrounds and experience levels are welcome to join this supportive space dedicated to generating new work. Sessions provide structured time to write, experiment, and share in community with others. Facilitated by Dr. Jeanne Powell.