Library hosts writing workshop

 

The Keystone Library will be hosting “The Heirlooms: Creative Life Story Writing Workshop”  on Wednesday, Nov. 9, at 6 p.m.

 

The free workshop is sponsored by the South Dakota Humanities Council. 

 

Adults of all ages are welcome to attend the  interactive workshop which requires participation in written exercises.  All levels of writing experience are welcome. Participants should bring their own writing materials, electronic or pen and paper, to the workshop.

 

South Dakota Humanities Council Scholar Dr. Molly Barari will be leading the worksop. 

 

She says  the “workshop is the perfect place to begin writing your life stories and family stories.” The workshop is designed to help individuals get “ideas for where to start writing, tips on how to write your stories in an interesting and compelling way, tips for how to organize your stories and a safe space to share your stories.”

 

Barari encourages people to share their stories and life experiences through writing. 

 

“There is a popular saying that everyone has a story to tell. I like to amend this statement by saying everyone has stories to tell. Each person you meet has copious life experiences that have made that person unique, and it’s great to get those stories onto paper to be preserved for future generations.”

 

Regardless of whether or not one might think their story is interesting, Barari explains that writing about it is beneficial.

 

“It doesn't matter where you have lived or what you have experienced — your stories are valuable. You might not believe your stories are interesting, but other people will be glad to have your stories and to connect with you through your words.”

 

Barari wrote her own memoir when she was in graduate school. 

 

“It took a great deal of time and commitment, and it’s still a work in progress because it requires more time for edits.”

 

She developed the workshop, “to make writing more accessible by encouraging people to write short stories from their lives, not their entire autobiographies.” Adding,“ it’s a more manageable way to get your stories onto paper.”