Literary Arts
Celebrating the written and spoken word across Hampshire County and the surrounding Potomac Highlands.
The Hampshire County Arts Council was originally formed in 1994, inspired by members of the Ice Mountain Writers group. Recognizing, celebrating and encouraging local writers remains a core part of HCAC’s mission.
Whether you write poetry, fiction, memoir, essays or simply love a good book, we hope to help connect readers and writers through book clubs, readings, workshops, writing groups and community literary events.
HCAC Book Fair — November 14, 2026
CELEBRATE OUR LOCAL WRITERS
Writers, Readers & Book Lovers Are Invited
The Hampshire County Arts Council will hold a Book Fair on Saturday, November 14, 2026 — a community celebration showcasing local and regional writers while also benefiting our local libraries.
The event is free for writers and the public. Published and unpublished writers are invited to bring books to sell, reserve a table and spend the day talking with readers and other writers.
We will also schedule readings, workshops and other literary activities throughout the day. Writers interested in offering a reading or workshop are encouraged to contact HCAC. Prose, poetry, fiction, nonfiction and plays are welcome; for this community event, content should be family oriented.
Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026
Time: 10:00 am–4:00 pm
Location: Auditorium, Brannon Building, WVSDB Campus, Romney
Admission: Free
For writers: Free tables, book sales, readings, workshops and conversations with readers
For readers, the Book Fair is a chance to discover local authors, hear their work, participate in literary activities and find books for winter reading and holiday gifts.
To reserve a table or ask about scheduling a reading or workshop, email
info@HampshireArts.org
or call
304-834-8369
.
Looking for Your Winter Reading?
Come meet writers from our area, hear readings, participate in workshops and browse books you may not find anywhere else.
The Book Fair is also a great opportunity to shop locally for thoughtful holiday gifts while supporting writers and libraries in our community.
Writers, Readings & Creative Community
Hampshire County and the surrounding region offer growing opportunities for writers to connect, share work, participate in readings and develop their craft.
Words of Love with Cookies
Held each year near Valentine’s Day, this HCAC tradition celebrates love through original poetry, prose and favorite readings shared aloud by members of the community. Watch for the 2027 date announcement.
The River House Writers Club
The River House in Capon Bridge hosts a community Writers Club along with literary events and creative gatherings.
Community Book Clubs
Are you collecting books to get ready for winter? Hampshire County has several welcoming places for readers to gather, discover new books and talk about what they are reading.
Books & Beyond
Hampshire County Public Library — Romney
Fourth Tuesday of each month at 1:30 pm
Upcoming selections:
- October: Fredrik Backman, Anxious People
- November: V. E. Schwab, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue
- December: Frank McCourt, Teacher Man
Romney Brew Station Book Club
Usually meets the last Monday of each month at 6:00 pm.
Capon Bridge Public Library
Check the library’s current programs for book discussions, children’s activities, reading programs and other community events.
Our Libraries
Hampshire County’s public libraries are important centers for reading, research, children’s programs and community learning throughout the year.
Hampshire County Public Library
153 W. Main Street, Romney, WV
304-822-3185
Capon Bridge Public Library
29875 Northwestern Pike, Capon Bridge, WV
304-856-3777
Resources for Writers
Looking for writing communities, contests or tools? These resources may help you continue developing your work and connecting with other writers.
West Virginia Writers, Inc.
A statewide all-volunteer organization supporting literary interests through contests, an annual conference, networking and resources for writers.
Beyond NaNoWriMo
Writers looking for November novel-writing challenges and long-form writing accountability can explore newer community alternatives that have emerged following the closure of the traditional NaNoWriMo organization.
Writing Competitions
Contests can be a fun way to set a deadline, try a new form and share your work beyond your immediate community. HCAC periodically shares suitable opportunities through ArtScene and our social channels.
Have Something Literary to Share?
Do you know of a local writers group, author event, reading, book launch, writing workshop or literary opportunity that should be included here or in ArtScene? Email
info@HampshireArts.org
.
Read. Write. Share Your Voice.
Join a book discussion, attend a reading, write something new or help us create more opportunities for Hampshire County writers and readers.