Resources & Media
Your writing journey doesn't stop here.
Every writer builds their own path.
Along the way, you'll discover workshops that sharpen your craft, organizations that expand your network, bookstores that become favorite gathering places, and publications that introduce you to new voices.
We've gathered these resources to help you continue exploring, learning, and connecting with Chicago's vibrant literary community.
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Whether you're developing your craft or exploring new areas of writing, these organizations offer conferences, classes, workshops, and educational opportunities throughout the year.
Courses and Workshops
MFA Programs
Conferences
Writing and Craft Resources
Podcasts
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Writing flourishes in community. Discover organizations and programs where writers gather to exchange ideas, share experiences, develop their work, and build lasting relationships.
Writing and Literary Organizations
Community and Youth Programs
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When you're ready to share your work, these resources can help you navigate the publishing landscape—from finding an agent or publisher to producing and promoting your book.
Chicago-Area and Independent Publishers
Literary Agents
Finding and Querying Agents
Submission and Publishing Opportunities
Self-Publishing Resources
Editing and Publishing Services
Book Design Services
Book Reviews
Author Promotion and Marketing
LitNuts: Get 25% off with discount code CWA25
Building an Author Platform
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Chicago has one of the country’s richest literary traditions. Spend an afternoon browsing an independent bookstore, visit a literary institution, attend a reading, or discover a space dedicated to supporting writers and readers.
Independent Bookstores and Literary Spaces
Literary Institutions and Media
Reading and Storytelling Series
Festivals and Events
Research and Discovery
A community grows when knowledge is shared.
No single organization can meet every writer’s needs, and that’s part of what makes Chicago’s literary community so remarkable. We hope these resources help you discover new opportunities, make meaningful connections, and continue building a writing life that’s uniquely your own.
If you know of a resource that belongs here, we’d love to hear from you.
The Chicago Writes Podcast was a monthly podcast of the Chicago Writers Association hosted by Bill Turck from 2022-2025, featuring in-depth interviews and candid conversations with published authors on the art, craft, and business of writing.
Stay tuned for a new format. In the meantime, check out these great interviews.
Discover the people, ideas, and stories shaping Chicago's literary landscape. Follow the Chicago Writers Association on YouTube for writing craft talks, author interviews, conference sessions, community events, and resources to help you grow as a writer and connect with fellow creatives.