Becoming an Author: Insights on Publishing & Building a Writing Career

This is an in-person event at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library, 7th Floor

Have you ever dreamed of becoming a published author or wondered how to navigate the path to publishing your first book as a black writer? Whether you’re just beginning to explore your passion for writing or looking to take your craft to the next level, this panel discussion will provide valuable insights and actionable strategies to help you succeed.

Join The New York Public Library’s Career Services for an inspiring and interactive session featuring published authors and industry professionals. Together, we’ll explore:

• How the intersectionality of author's identities impacted their writing and publishing journey
• Essential skills, habits, and decisions that shape the writing journey
• A deep dive into the publishing process, including pros and cons of traditional and self-publishing
• Practical strategies for marketing your book, engaging with your audience, and driving sales.

This event is perfect for aspiring authors, freelance writers, and anyone interested in the business of writing. Walk away with practical advice and resources to help you turn you achieve your writing goals

Registration is required, and space is limited. Sign up today to secure your spot!

Kosoko Jackson is a USA TODAY, Lambda Award winning bestselling author of young adult and adult fiction. He writes in a variety of genres including fantasy, horror, science fiction, and romance. His debut romcom, I’m So Not Over You, won the 2023 Lambda Award for Gay Romance. His adult horror debut, THE MACABRE, comes out in September of 2025 by Harper Voyager, followed by THE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF WITCHCRAFT in 2026. He has an MFA and a BS in Public Health, and is completing an MBA in Entrepreneurship, Corporate Innovation and Leadership. He is also a professor at Seton Hill University’s Popular Fiction MFA program and a screenwriter represented by WME.

Kristina Forest is the USA Today bestselling author of romance books for both teens and adults. She earned her MFA in Creative Writing at The New School and she lives in New Jersey, where she can often be found rearranging her bookshelf.

Jordan Calhoun is the Editor in Chief of Lifehacker and author of Piccolo Is Black: A Memoir of Race, Religion, and Pop Culture. He’s been featured in places like The New York Times, Kotaku, The Root, and The AV Club, and his writing has been published in places like Men’s Health, The Atlantic, and Vulture. Jordan served in the Peace Corps and holds a B.A. in Sociology and Criminal Justice, B.S. in Psychology, and an M.P.A. in Public Policy.  He lives in New York City.

Anthony Tucker is an award-winning author, a prolific assistant principal in the South Bronx, and a former high school basketball and volleyball coach. The founder of Playground Libraries, an initiative geared to encourage early literacy and increase intellectual visibility in impoverished neighborhoods. Because of his work with children, Anthony's mission is to empower and encourage students from neglected neighborhoods to pursue their education with passion, commitment, and a higher sense of self-confidence.

Cathy de la Cruz is a Senior Metadata Manager on the Corporate Metadata Team at Penguin Random House. In addition to her work in Online and Digital Sales, she is also a publishing DEI advocate and serves as both an Inclusion Partner and Uncovering Bias Facilitator at PRH. Cathy holds an MFA in Visual Arts from the University of California, San Diego, and an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Arizona, Tucson. Cathy’s creative writing has been published in various print anthologies such as The Weird Sister Collection (Feminist Press, 2024) and online via Reductress, Allure, and more.

Find essential professional development support, resources, webinars, and events for job seekers and professionals looking to craft an effective professional portfolio to enhance their career. NYPL’s Career Services team offers FREE virtual and in-person support to help you achieve your career or employment goals, which include coaching, resume or cover letter writing, job application support, and career development events. If you have questions about these offerings, please contact us: [email protected]

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