We are delighted to share the success of the Western Carteret Library’s Friends of the Library Authors Festival fundraiser event that took place on June 10, 2023. It was a truly remarkable gathering, showcasing the talents of several Carteret Writers and leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

The event was flawlessly organized, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Friends of the Library. From start to finish, the festival ran smoothly, creating a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere for both authors and attendees. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the organizers for their exceptional efforts in making this event a resounding success.

Ten local writers had the opportunity to showcase their literary works and engage in conversations with fellow book enthusiasts. The following Carteret Writers were present and shared their insights and experiences:

  • Tom Kies: Known for his thrilling Geneva Chase mystery series, Tom Kies captivated the audience and left attendees eagerly awaiting his next literary masterpiece.
  • Barbara McCreary: Barbara spoke passionately about her book Ebb and Flow and delighted attendees with her extensive knowledge of local history. Her presence added a rich layer of cultural appreciation to the event.
  • Susan Schmidt: Susan entertained the audience with her published poetry from her new collection titled Drought, Drought, Torrential. Her unique blend of poetry and song created a memorable experience for everyone present.
  • Sarah Maury Swan: Sarah talked about her journey through the publishing process, her reasons for choosing the self-publishing route, and finding an illustrator for her children’s stories “But I’m not Sick” and “Fairy Toothbrushes. Her valuable insights inspired aspiring writers in the audience.
  • Michelle Garren Flye: Michelle discussed her bookstore The Next Chapter and The Next Chapter Literary Magazine, showcasing her passion for promoting literature. Attendees were captivated by her stories and left with a renewed appreciation for the written word.

We were also fortunate to have the energetic presence of Jennifer Heironimus, our esteemed treasurer, who cheered on the authors with her infectious enthusiasm. Anechy Padron, another valued member of our group, graced the occasion and will be presenting her book at a future event, adding to the excitement of upcoming gatherings.

We would like to express our gratitude to all the authors who participated, making the event truly memorable, and to Sarah Maury Swan, who shared these highlights with us. Your contributions enriched the literary landscape and fostered a sense of community among writers and readers alike. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the Western Carteret Library’s Friends of the Library for organizing the fundraiser event. Your dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and we appreciate your commitment to promoting the literary arts within our community.

We look forward to future events and gatherings where we can continue to celebrate and support each other’s literary endeavors. Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities to showcase your work.

Featured Image includes (from left to right) Barbara McCreary, Sarah Maury Swan, Anechy Padron, and Melissa Garren Flye.