New tools awaken a passion for writing in young people

Together, the libraries in Norrbotten are strengthening their ability to inspire and create new creative spaces for children and young people across the county. This is done through a joint investment in training in creative writing workshops.

Recently, library staff from all over Norrbotten participated in a writing workshop that aimed to give them tools and methods to be able to hold creative writing exercises in their libraries. It was a training arranged by the Norrbotten Regional Library within the framework of the national Reading Promotion Initiative and with support from the Swedish Arts Council.

Author, journalist and librarian Anna Holmström Degerman led the workshop, which was held in three locations in the county; Gällivare, Luleå and Arvidsjaur. During the day, participants learned how to awaken the desire to write in children and young people, and how to make individuals feel safe sharing their stories.

Anna Holmström Degerman held the workshop.

Playfulness as a pedagogical tool

The workshop combined a range of different exercises and methods. Everything from building characters from different gadgets to working with dramaturgy by combining people, places and problems. The goal was to lower the threshold for both children and adults to dare to express themselves creatively.

Anna Holmström Degerman also shared her experiences of leading writing workshops in schools, where students are often more reluctant because it can feel "forced." At library writing workshops, where participants come voluntarily, the experience is that they are more open to creating together.

Writing is for everyone

The workshop also served another important purpose: to show that everyone can write and that writing does not have to be tied to perfection or achievement. The focus was instead on the joy of creation and letting imagination flow freely.

One of the participants expressed it this way after the training: The main thing I take away from it is that you don't actually have to make it so special. I'm taking the leap during the school holidays – hoping for participants!

Another participant reflects: Everyone can write with the right help along the way! To lower the bar, try writing, play with words and trust the feeling.

The participants read their texts to each other.

Moving forward with continued support

A few months after the participants have held their own workshops, a digital follow-up meeting with the course leader will be arranged. Given the long distances we have within Norrbotten County, it is a great advantage to be able to take advantage of technology to give as many people as possible the chance for further education and participation. Many participants expressed their appreciation for the fact that the course was given in several locations around the county instead of in one location.

Training courses like this are an important step in strengthening cooperation between libraries in Norrbotten. Joint initiatives not only give libraries the opportunity to offer residents an equal range of activities, but also an invaluable network where they can share their experiences, challenges and successes.

It is clear that Norrbotten's library staff want to become even better at inspiring reading and writing among children, young people and adults.

Text and image: Linda Kvenås