Midwest Writing Center

Mission Statement

It is the mission of the Midwest Writing Center to foster diversity and pluralism of literary voices, encourage professional development of the individual as writer, and enhance opportunities for writers of all ages to access audiences for their work.

To fulfill its mission, the Midwest Writing Center will:

Provide a positive learning environment for emerging literary voices.
Provide assistance in developing the business skills necessary to earn a living practicing the writing trade
Provide space for public readings and autograph parties, manuscript critiquing sessions, club meetings, and mentoring programs for youth and adults.
Host seminars, workshops and conferences encompassing all writing genres: fiction and non-fiction, prose and poetry, multi-media, multi-disciplinary arts, including stage and screen writing, photojournalism and book illustration.
Provide a retreat for aspiring and established writers pursuing works in progress.
Provide residence and access tools of the trade for visiting authors, writing instructors, and literary scholars.
Establish and maintain a regional database of professional writers, manuscript editors, qualified jurors, advisors, writing mentors and literary scholars.
Provide technical services and assistance in applying for arts fellowships, educational scholarships and literary arts grants.
Establish and maintain a Web site and calendar or writing events in the Quad Cities and nearby communities.
Provide Internet access, printers, and copiers for member's use at minimal cost.
Develop literary arts outreach programs for under-served populations.

The Midwest Writing Center is located in downtown Rock Island's Arts and Entertainment District on the southern shore of the Mississippi - Yes, southern shore as the Mighty Miss takes a gentle turn westward just above Bettendorf and Davenport on the Iowa side, Moline and Rock Island on the Illinois side. Arts galleries, restaurants, theaters, hotel and B&B accommodations are within walking distance. The center's new 800-square-foot storefront facility offers work space, small group meeting areas, seating capacity for 40 for workshops, public readings, critiquing groups and book discussions. Also, available for rental is a private studio for writers working on their manuscripts or for one-on-one consultations with a mentor or manuscript editor. A private meeting room is also available to accommodate workshops and programs for 12-20 participants.

The center offers a professional reference library and Internet access, kitchenette, and restrooms. For information on facility usage and membership benefits, call (309) 788-2711 and request a member brochure.