Writer-in-Residence Program 2026
About the Residency
At the Jewish Public Library, we believe every story matters. We are excited to invite Montreal-based writers to apply for our Writer-in-Residence program—a four-month opportunity to write, share your work, and connect with our community. If you have a story to tell and want a warm place to create, we would love to hear from you. All the details can be found below!
Program Overview
The Jewish Public Library (JPL) welcomes writers to apply for our Writer-in-Residence program. This four-month residency supports a writer based in Montreal to create new work, connect with the community, and share their voice.
The writer takes part in library life, uses our collections for inspiration, and brings people together through stories, ideas, and conversation. We offer a warm, supportive space to write, learn, and connect.
Residency dates: March 11 – June 10, 2026
Application deadline: February 16, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST
Location: Hybrid (in person and online)
Payment: Two payments — one at the start of the residency and one at the end
Reports to: Director of Programming, Yael Goutard
Program Goals
- Support the creation of new writing connected to Jewish life and culture
- Bring people together through workshops, readings, and events
- Support the writer's creative process
- Build strong connections between the Library and the Montreal community
Call for Applications
The Jewish Public Library invites writers to apply for this residency. We are looking for someone who feels connected to Jewish culture, enjoys sharing their work through community engagement.
The selected writer receives a $5,000 CAD stipend and full access to the Library's collections and resources.
Who Can Apply
- Writers of all genres (fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and more)
- Writers who show a connection to Jewish culture in their work or project idea
- Montreal-based residents only
- Writers who can communicate clearly in English (French is a plus)
- Previous publication is welcome but not required
- Two letters of support from organizations or individuals (in any language)
What to Submit
- Your resume
- A writing sample (up to 4 pages)
- A short project plan for the four-month residency:
- Explain what you want to work on
- Share how your project connects to the Library's mission
- Show how your work supports Jewish culture and heritage
- Include a plan for:
- 1 youth workshop
- 1 public event for adults
All documents must be sent as PDF files.
What the Residency Includes
Creative Time & Support
- Access to the Library's books, archives, and resources
Community Engagement
- One workshop for youth
- One public workshop or event for adults
JPL Ambassador Role
- Support and moderate JPL events when relevant
- Share your residency on social media
- Build connections with partner groups and organizations when possible
Selection Process
A small selection committee reviews all applications.
We thank everyone who applies. Only the selected writer will be contacted.
This program was made possible thanks to the generosity of The Morris and Rosalind Goodman Family Foundation.
The Jewish Public Library (JPL) welcomes writers to apply for our Writer-in-Residence program. This four-month residency supports a writer based in Montreal to create new work, connect with the community, and share their voice.
The writer takes part in library life, uses our collections for inspiration, and brings people together through stories, ideas, and conversation. We offer a warm, supportive space to write, learn, and connect.
Residency dates: March 11 – June 10, 2026
Application deadline: February 16, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST
Location: Hybrid (in person and online)
Payment: Two payments — one at the start of the residency and one at the end
Reports to: Director of Programming, Yael Goutard
- Support the creation of new writing connected to Jewish life and culture
- Bring people together through workshops, readings, and events
- Support the writer's creative process
- Build strong connections between the Library and the Montreal community
The Jewish Public Library invites writers to apply for this residency. We are looking for someone who feels connected to Jewish culture, enjoys sharing their work through community engagement.
The selected writer receives a $5,000 CAD stipend and full access to the Library's collections and resources.
- Writers of all genres (fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and more)
- Writers who show a connection to Jewish culture in their work or project idea
- Montreal-based residents only
- Writers who can communicate clearly in English (French is a plus)
- Previous publication is welcome but not required
- Two letters of support from organizations or individuals (in any language)
- Your resume
- A writing sample (up to 4 pages)
- A short project plan for the four-month residency:
- Explain what you want to work on
- Share how your project connects to the Library's mission
- Show how your work supports Jewish culture and heritage
- Include a plan for:
- 1 youth workshop
- 1 public event for adults
All documents must be sent as PDF files to: [email protected]
Creative Time & Support
- Access to the Library's books, archives, and resources
Community Engagement
- One workshop for youth
- One public workshop or event for adults
JPL Ambassador Role
- Support and moderate JPL events when relevant
- Share your residency on social media
- Build connections with partner groups and organizations when possible
A small selection committee reviews all applications.
We thank everyone who applies. Only the selected writer will be contacted.