Writer-in-Residence

Are you a writer looking for support as you work on your craft? Chandler Public Library is excited to partner with the Arizona State Library for the Writer-in-Residence program, a series of workshops and one-on-one consultations for writers. We’ll welcome Valerie Ipsom as our Writer in Residence from February through April 2026. Valerie is the author of novels and children's books who has also taught extensively at writing conferences, workshops, and in classroom settings.

Workshops will include:

Writing Romance: Happily Ever After's that Matter
Hamilton Library
Saturday, Feb. 21 at 2 p.m.
Explore dreamy themes and fresh plot elements that make your romance stories irresistible to readers.

The Magic of Bedtime Stories: Reading & Writing for Children
Basha Library
Saturday, March 28 at 11 a.m.
Explore the power of bedtime stories and the meaningful moments of comfort and connection they create.

Write-in with Valerie Ipsom
Hamilton Library
Saturday, April 11 at 2 p.m.
This distraction-free time is perfect for writers at any stage working on any type of project. Bring your current work-in-progress or use one of the provided writing prompts to get started.

Valerie will also offer 30-minute writing consultations to help aspiring authors fine-tune their work. All experience levels are welcome. Limit one session per week. At Hamilton and Basha Libraries; dates and times vary. Registration is required.
Choose your session and register for a 30-minute time slot here.

Visit our events calendar for a full schedule of this session’s events. The Chandler Writer-in-Residence program was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.