THE CHAUTAUQUA CREATIVE GUIDE
Book Clubs and Writing Groups in Chautauqua County, NY
Sometimes you finish a book and need someone to talk to about it. Sometimes you have a story of your own, tucked away in a notebook, and wonder whether anyone else would understand why you keep returning to it.
Finding people who share that interest can make a difference.
If you’re looking for book clubs, writing groups, or writing workshops in Chautauqua County, these local resources offer places to begin. We’ve also included an online option for people who want to share their writing without waiting for the next meeting.
Where to start
| What you’re looking for | A place to explore |
|---|---|
| A book discussion in Bemus Point | Bemus Point Public Library |
| Writing groups and reader feedback | Sinclairville Free Library |
| Seasonal writing workshops | Chautauqua Writers’ Center |
| Online conversations about books and writing | Chautauqua Ink House community forum |
| A library closer to home | Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System directory |
Meeting schedules and openings can change. Use the organizer’s own website to confirm the next session, registration requirements, and any cost before making plans.
Book discussions at Bemus Point Public Library
Bemus Point Public Library, at 13 Main Street, publishes announcements for its Overdue Book Club. Its website has also featured writing workshops and a haiku program, making it a useful place to watch for both reading and writing activities. Visit the library’s website.
For the book club, ask which title the group is reading next, whether newcomers need to register, and whether copies are available to borrow. For writing programs, check whether the session involves creating something new or bringing an existing piece.
The library’s events calendar is the place to check dates. Make sure you’re viewing the right month and year, since previous events remain useful references but aren’t upcoming invitations.
Writing groups at Sinclairville Free Library
Sinclairville Free Library is another place to explore if you want encouragement and feedback on your own work. Its published programming includes Write Circle, a group for writers across genres, and Write Spirit, an online group for Christian writers. The library has also listed life-story writing activities. Explore its program calendar.
Check availability before attending. Published calendar listings have described Write Circle as closed to new members, so ask the library which group currently has room and whether it meets in person, online, or both.
Readers can also explore the library’s book-club information for discussion options and participation details.
Writing workshops at Chautauqua Writers’ Center
For a more structured learning experience, Chautauqua Institution’s Writers’ Center offers workshops and readings associated with its summer season. Its programs serve writers at different stages, including people developing their craft and those seeking support with existing drafts. Explore the Writers’ Center.
Read each workshop description with your own goal in mind. Do you want to begin a story, work on poetry, or revise a manuscript? Those needs may lead you to different sessions.
Check the current season’s offerings, registration, fees, and grounds-access requirements. This is a seasonal workshop resource, so don’t assume a previous listing is available year-round.
Share your writing online at Chautauqua Ink House
If meeting times or travel make joining a local group difficult, you can also take part online.
Our Chautauqua Ink House community forum includes Writing desk, Works in progress, and Craft & feedback sections. These give members places to discuss writing, share work, and ask other readers for their thoughts.
Start with a short excerpt and one question:
- Does this opening make you want to keep reading?
- Can you tell what this character wants?
- Where does the scene become confusing?
- Does the dialogue sound natural?
A focused question makes it easier for someone to offer a useful response. Community feedback depends on members choosing to participate, so allow time and consider responding thoughtfully to another writer’s work, too.
Visit the forum, or create an account or sign in to get started.
Find a library closer to home
If these locations aren’t convenient, use the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System’s member directory to find libraries throughout the area. The directory covers both counties, so check the location before planning a visit.
Ask staff about book discussions, writing programs, and ways to hear about future events. A simple message is enough:
“I’m looking for a book club or writing group nearby. Do you have anything coming up, and are new people welcome?”
You don’t need a finished book to begin
Before sharing writing, ask how the group handles feedback, whether excerpts are submitted ahead of time, and whether reading aloud is optional. Share a piece you feel comfortable discussing.
You can begin with a paragraph, a question, or a book you haven’t stopped thinking about.
For more local discoveries, explore our Chautauqua authors and artists guide. If you’re ready to introduce yourself, pull up a chair in the Ink House community.