News Summary
The Hub City Writers Project marks 30 years of literary service in Spartanburg, celebrating its milestones since its founding in 1995. From fostering local authors to renovating buildings and establishing the renowned Hub City Bookshop, the organization has significantly impacted the community and promotes accessibility to literature. A series of events and an upcoming anthology aim to highlight its achievements and commitment to diverse storytelling. With programs like ‘Books as Mirrors’ and support for local writers, the Hub City Writers Project continues to thrive as a vital cultural asset.
Spartanburg, SC
The Hub City Writers Project, a cornerstone of the local literary culture, is celebrating three decades of service to the Spartanburg community. Founded in 1995 by a trio of local writers, the organization has grown from humble beginnings at a kitchen table to a significant literary nonprofit with two locations and a staff of nine to twelve.
The Hub City Writers Project’s 30-year journey has led to the renovation of four buildings in Spartanburg and the establishment of the Hub City Bookshop, an independent bookstore that marks its 15th anniversary this year. The bookstore has achieved recognition as the nation’s first full-service bookshop operated by a nonprofit organization and has gained accolades as one of the best bookstores in the South.
Located at 186 W. Main St., Spartanburg, the Hub City Writers Project is dedicated to preserving community identity, especially during a time when Spartanburg faced numerous challenges. The organization has a publishing arm, Hub City Press, which publishes eight to ten literary titles annually, including over 100 books to date, with several titles receiving national recognition, including praise from NPR and various literary awards.
30th Anniversary Celebration
To commemorate its 30th anniversary, the Hub City Writers Project is hosting a series of rolling celebrations, which include book donations to local organizations and pop-up outreach events aimed at expanding its literary footprint. Additionally, an anthology celebrating 30 years of fiction published by Hub City Press is set to be released in the fall, highlighting the organization’s impact on the literary community.
Programs and Community Engagement
In addition to publishing, the Hub City Writers Project supports local authors, such as Michel Stone, who released her first novel through the organization. It organizes annual writers’ conferences, summer camps, and author readings. Furthermore, the project engages with local students and children through its “Books as Mirrors” program, which aims to reflect diverse experiences in literature.
The organization does not only focus on literature for adults; it also offers internships for college students, providing invaluable experiences in the literary arts. The current executive director and publisher, Meg Reid, oversees a range of innovative programs, including the upcoming Southern Studies Fellowship in Arts and Letters, set to launch in winter 2024.
Mission and Vision
The Hub City Writers Project is committed to transforming perceptions about the American South through literature and fostering an inclusive literary arts culture. Each year, the organization donates thousands of books to those in need, furthering its goal of making literature accessible to the community.
Reflecting on the organization’s journey, the founders expressed pride in its achievements, particularly in promoting diverse authors and stories, showcasing that the Hub City Writers Project has not only survived but thrived, becoming a vital part of Spartanburg’s cultural landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Spartanburg Celebrates Musical Heritage with ‘Music Trail Live!’
Spartanburg Honors 13 Years of Literary Growth with Michel Stone
Hub City Writers Project Celebrates 30 Years of Literary Impact
Hub City Spartanburgers Set to Revive Local Culture
Spartanburg Residents Criticize Trump’s Remarks on Auto Manufacturing and Highlight Local Industry Importance
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Hub City Writers Project 30 Year Anniversary
- GoUpstate: Kirk Neely of Spartanburg Dies
- Greenville Journal: Hub City Writers Project Celebrates 25 Years
- USA Today: Hub City Bookshop Profile
- GoUpstate: Hub City Writers Project Launch Books as Mirrors
- Wikipedia: Hub City Writers Project
- Google Search: Hub City Writers Project
- Google Scholar: Hub City Writers Project
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hub City Writers Project
- Google News: Hub City Writers Project
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
