For Writers
Writers' Groups
Groups to Join
Membership is not required to participate in groups at the Athenaeum. All are welcome!
Several groups take summer breaks. Please check each group’s meeting times.
Salem Writers Group—in person
Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday
From 7:00 to 9:00 PM
Hosted by J.D. Scrimgeour
and Kevin Carey.
We read our work, workshop it and become better writers. Open to both fiction and nonfiction writers. For current meeting information, see Salem Writers Group on Facebook.
Writer’s Open Studio—in person
Special quiet hours when the Athenaeum is open for writers to work in an inspiring atmosphere.
Writers are also welcome during normal library hours.
New hours for 2025!
Open Studio is on Tuesday mornings from 9:00-11:00 AM
The Incessant Pipe—in person
Every 4th Tuesday
From 7:00 to 9:00 PM
The Incessant Pipe Poetry Salon or “The Pipe” is a space to read poetry, yours or others, and discuss everything from the price of tea in China to quantum particles (as long as it relates back to poetry). All styles of poetry are welcome.
Nonfiction Writers Group—online
Every 2nd Wednesday
From 6:30-8:00 PM
We focus on nonfiction prose. Participants read their work in a supportive environment and receive useful feedback. If time permits, readings of favorite pieces and craft essays may be included as well as writing prompts.
Examples of nonfiction writing include: articles, book reviews, journalism, and memoir.
Workshops
To support a thriving community of writers, the Salem Athenaeum offers workshops on wide-ranging topics and techniques, from starting your first novel, to playwriting, memoir, poetry, workshops for young writers (ages 10–16), and much, much more. Upcoming workshops will be listed here.
Propose a New Group
The Salem Athenaeum is glad to host new onsite or online writers’ group meetings open to the public that are in keeping with our mission and availability. Please use this form to submit proposals.
Proposal review will be handled by staff and programming committees and may take up to 90 days.
New Group Proposal Form
