Serving as the inaugural Writer-in-Residence at Mechanics Hall was one of the great creative honors of my life. I produced an extraordinary amount of work there, but unlike many residencies that rely on isolation, Mechanics' Hall energized me with its history, architecture, music, and constant creative pulse. If you are even considering applying, do it and do it now! Your future self and your future work will thank you.
-Mira Ptacin, inaugural Writer-in-Residence, Author of The In-Betweens
Writer-in-Residence at Mechanics’ Hall – Vision Statement & Position Summary
September 2026 – August 2027
Mechanics’ Hall is excited to announce an open call for its next Writer-in-Residence. We seek an outgoing, community-minded Maine-based writer who will pursue their current creative project while becoming an active participant in the literary life of Mechanics’ Hall.
Mechanics’ Hall will offer time, space, financial support, and institutional support. In turn, the Writer-in-Residence will enrich the cultural programming and literary life of Mechanics’ Hall while contributing to our legacy of civic and intellectual engagement.
This yearlong residency is designed for a writer of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or hybrid genres seeking deeper engagement with a vibrant literary community while advancing a current project. This is not a residency for those seeking complete solitude, but for writers who thrive in community and value literary citizenship.
Mechanics’ Hall is a close-knit, mission-driven organization dedicated to preserving and activating our historic downtown Portland space through dynamic cultural, literary, and community-centered programming. The library environment varies from quiet workdays to lively community gatherings. The Writer-in-Residence will have a dedicated workspace and opportunities to engage with a curious and creative community.
This residency is intended to be both generative and collaborative. The Writer-in-Residence will be supported in their creative work, while Mechanics’ Hall benefits from the writer’s presence, teaching, and engagement. Together, we will celebrate the written word in all its forms, quietly, publicly, and meaningfully.
Mechanics’ Hall Will Provide
Dedicated Workspace
A reserved desk in the Mechanics’ Hall Library, with access to quieter spaces by appointment.
Community Support
Promotion of the writer’s work and residency activities through Mechanics’ Hall communications, including newsletters, social media, and the website.
Residency Launch Event
An introduction to the Mechanics’ Hall community through one of our signature public events.
Honorarium
A stipend of $2,500, paid over the course of the residency year in recognition of the Writer-in-Residence’s contributions to Mechanics’ Hall programming and community engagement.
Writer-in-Residence Responsibilities
Literary Presence & Community Engagement
- Monthly Office Hours
Host monthly office hours (virtual or in person) for emerging writers, students, and community members seeking conversation, guidance, or feedback. - Workshop Series
Lead two writing workshop offerings during the residency year. Format and schedule will be determined in collaboration with Mechanics’ Hall staff.
Public Literary Programming
- Event Hosting
Serve as host or emcee for two to three literary events, such as book launches, readings, or author conversations. - Work-in-Progress Reading
Present one public reading and/or craft talk featuring current work and reflections on the creative process.
Content Contributions
- Newsletter Features
Contribute two short written pieces for the Mechanics’ Hall newsletter on writing, creativity, community, or the residency experience. - Social Media Takeover (Optional)
Share aspects of the creative process with the Mechanics’ Hall audience through a temporary social media takeover.
Optional Opportunities
By mutual agreement, the Writer-in-Residence may also:
- Participate in a residency kick-off reception in September 2026
- Collaborate with artists, musicians, or other cultural partners
- Assist in selecting a future Writer-in-Residence
Eligibility
Applicants must be based in Maine and able to participate regularly in residency activities in Portland throughout the year. Applicants must be available for in-person interviews between August 3rd – August 14th 2026 to be considered for the residency.
Applications
Applications open June 15-June 30, 2026. Please note there will be no late acceptions after the June 30th deadline.