PENDLETON, Ore. – Local writers and artists are encouraged to submit original works to a new literary magazine to be published by the Pendleton Public Library.
“Quill of the Umatilla” is a brand new endeavor and the library is seeking works of fiction, poetry or images from Umatilla County residents, or from those with strong ties to the region.
“The Quill of Umatilla County was created to give a voice to the many great artists, authors poets in Umatilla County,” said Jennifer Colton, who is coordinating the effort alongside Library Director Jennifer Costley. “We know there are beautiful and powerful stories here that are ready to be told, and we want to help share those stories.”
According to the library, the literary magazine endeavor was made possible with funding support from a Mini Grant for Rural Libraries from Oregon Humanities, and when published copies will be available for purchase or to checkout.
“The library has talked about doing a literary magazine for quite a while,” said Colton, who hopes the magazine will be similar to the “Oregon East” literary magazine published by Eastern Oregon University, but with a focus on Umatilla County.
Works of fiction and non-fiction up to 5,000 words, original poems up to 60 lines long and images may be submitted for consideration to “Quill of the Umatilla” by March 31. Full submission guidelines are available online.
“Each submission should include a copy of the work on its own, without any identifying information, as well as a cover letter that includes biographical information,” according to Colton.
A submissions committee will make selections for publication based on blind readings of submitted work. Those chosen for publication will receive two copies of “Quill of the Umatilla” and will have the opportunity to present at two library events this spring.
“We are still finalizing dates, but one will be an information session and peer exchange/presentation of works, and the second will be a formal release event in May that will align with the Pendleton Friends of the Library annual meeting,” said Colton.
