NaNoWriMo: National Novel Writing Month

National Novel Writing Month

National Novel Writing Month is a daunting but straightforward challenge: to write 50,000 words of a novel in thirty days. Now, each year on November 1, hundreds of thousands of people around the world begin to write, determined to end the month with a first draft.

Check out our books, online resources, and more to help you write your novel this month!

Set a Goal

Set a goal for a brand new novel, or set a goal for a novel you’ve already started. Whatever inspires you to write!

Frequently Asked Questions About NaNoWriMo

"Do I need something special to write a novel?”
Not at all! You just need something to write with, some time set aside, and the ability to power through moments of writing-related despair in order to reach new creative heights.

“What if it’s not any good?”
Most first drafts aren’t very good. Think of the first draft as making the clay that you’ll use later to sculpt the story of your dreams.

“Do I have to publish it?”
If you want to! Some NaNoWriMo writers go on to traditionally publish their novels (including Marissa Meyer, Elizabeth Acevedo, and Emily X. R. Pan). Others self-publish, or share their novels with their friends or family.

The Search for Indigenous Identity with Joseph Lee

Nov 5th | 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Online Event

The Search for Truth Across Time with Amanda Peters

Nov 13th | 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Online Event

Unlock the Secret Language of Connection with Charles Duhigg

Nov 18th | 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Online Event

Historical Fiction Queen Philippa Gregory

Oct 29th | 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Online Event

Finding & Working with a Traditional Publisher

If you have decided to go the route of finding a traditional publisher, these books can help you get started.

Hispanic American Poetry for Young People

These books from our young adult and children's collections are a lyrical way to explore Hispanic American cultures.

My Librarian: Facets of Journaling

Discover the many ways that people can keep a journal and see examples of different types of journals and diaries--not just for writers!

Staff Blogs on Writing

For Writers: Resources & More

Check out our local author visits, small groups, book suggestions, and other writing-related resources for your writing needs.

My Librarian: The Benefits of a Local Writers' Group

From hours of research to even more hours of honing one’s prose or choosing just the right word.
Joy

Self-Publishing: What an Author Needs to Know

With the rise of eBooks and print-on-demand, more authors are turning to self-publishing to get their books into the hands of readers.
Joy

Grow a Reader Skill: Writing

Children begin developing the skills used in writing long before their work becomes words.
Back to Top