Founded in 1975 by a group of writers and publishers, the Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance (MWPA) works to enrich the literary life and culture of Maine. They bring together Maine writers, editors, publishers, booksellers, and literary professionals at all stages of their careers to sharpen craft, create community, and celebrate great writing. The MWPA fosters a greater awareness and readership of Maine writers; builds networks of writers, readers, and publishers; creates opportunities for writers to improve their craft; and acts as the foremost authority on Maine literary news, keeping our members and the public alike engaged and informed.

The MWPA has an active, growing membership of more than 1,700 writers, readers, and literary professionals from all sixteen counties of the state. Throughout the year, we offer statewide writing workshops, bring free workshops to under-resourced communities, and connect writers with opportunities and scholarships. We host free literary events, like the biennial Maine Lit Fest, and facilitate the annual Maine Literary Awards.

Join the MWPA for a special forum hosted by Poet Maya Williams (they/them), in which 5 Maine authors will read, discuss, and take questions on their work, reflecting on writing and being a writer in Maine. Published works will also be for sale after the forum.