Located in Vancouver
The Writer-in-Residence program at UBC Library’s Irving K. Barber Learning Centre is an initiative designed to support and promote literary excellence within our academic community. This program provides a unique opportunity for a distinguished writer to engage with students, faculty, and the local community through various enriching activities and events. We aim to foster a vibrant literary culture, encourage creative expression, and offer valuable insights into the writing process.
Program Objectives:
- Promote Cultural Dialogue: Encourage discussions on contemporary literary themes and issues, broadening the cultural perspectives of our community.
- Enhance Literary Engagement: Facilitate meaningful interactions between the writer-in-residence and the academic community, inspiring a love for literature and writing.
- Support Emerging Writers: Offer mentorship and guidance to aspiring writers through workshops, seminars, and one-on-one consultations.
- Enrich Academic Offerings: Integrate the writer’s expertise into the library’s programs and resources, enhancing the educational experience for all participants.
Time Period:
September 19, 2026, to October 30, 2026
Remuneration:
An honorarium of $2,500
Application fee:
Free
Requirements:
We invite applications from writers with an active and ongoing engagement in literary practice, demonstrated through publication or other forms of contribution to the literary community. Writers at different stages of their careers—including emerging, mid-career, and established authors—are encouraged to apply.
The program welcomes writers working in any literary genre or form. Applicants may have published with independent, small press, or other reputable publishers, or may have built their literary practice through community engagement, public programming, or other forms of creative and cultural contribution.
Because a central goal of the Writer-in-Residence program is to cultivate a vibrant and inclusive literary culture at UBC, applications that demonstrate experience, imagination, feasibility, and meaningful engagement with the university community will be strengthened. Experience in teaching, mentoring emerging writers, facilitating workshops, or participating in community-based literary initiatives will be considered an asset. We seek writers who not only demonstrate literary excellence but who are also enthusiastic about mentorship, dialogue, and developing literary creativity within the university and broader community.
Residence within Metro Vancouver is not required. However, the Writer-in-Residence must be available for in-person activities on the University of British Columbia (UBC) campus throughout the residency period. Please note that the program does not provide financial support for travel or accommodation.
Deadline:
May 30th, 2026