Novel writing kits are available at the Dickinson County Library through November.

IRON MOUNTAIN –The Dickinson County Library is celebrating National Novel Writing Month during November. Adults and teens in ninth through 12th grades can pick up a kit at all library sites to encourage writing.

NaNoWriMo is a national celebration encouraging writers to begin writing a novel. Patrons who are interested in writing can inquire at any Dickinson County Library branch for a kit to encourage writing that includes a notebook, inspirational pen, a fidget spinner, snack and writing prompts to help with writer’s block.

Writers participating in the challenge are invited to meet in person with fellow writers at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 21, at the Dickinson County Library in Iron Mountain for Write On!, the library’s monthly writing group for all styles of writers.

“Several patrons inquired about a writing space, and we were interested in providing an encouraging and safe space for them to work with other writers,” said Emily Cummings, local history/adult programming and programming coordinator. “Since we began the program, we have several ages and styles of writers participate. It’s become a fun monthly program of positivity and creativity.”

Write On! began in November of 2022 and is an encouraging space for all styles of writers. Each month there is a different topic that participants discuss and share their thoughts. Participants also do an activity related to the topic. Write On! is a great opportunity for those who are beginning their writing journey and published authors to meet with each other.

Local author Mick Gayan, who writes under the pen name Wade Walker, has attended Write On! and has done a Book Breakdown for his first novel, “Bite of the Wolf” and will be doing a second Book Breakdown for his sequel novel, “Operation Frankenstein” in 2024.

“Write On! is a great opportunity for local writers to meet and share their own writing experiences with other like-minded individuals, which as a writer I really appreciate. It’s also been a great way to challenge and expand my own ideas on writing through group exercises and discussion,” Gayan said.

The Dickinson County Library helps the community find its story. Founded in 1967, the library has three locations in Dickinson County — the main library in Iron Mountain, the Solomonson Branch in Norway and the North Dickinson Branch in the North Dickinson County School building in Felch Township.

For more information on upcoming programs, go to the library’s website at www.dcl-lib.org or call the main library at 906-774-1218.