Write alongside Clallam County Poet Laureate Nellie Bridge

Published 1:30 am Thursday, July 17, 2025

Clallam County Poet Laureate Nellie Bridge invites community members to participate in a series of summer writing sessions designed to spark creativity and connection. Newcomers and experienced writers alike are welcome to respond to prompts or focus on personal projects in a relaxed, supportive setting. Sessions are open to all, whether you’re starting your first short story or polishing a novel. Each two-hour session includes time to write and the option to share your work or simply listen to others. Participants can bring their own writing materials or use the provided supplies.

Upcoming Writing Sessions:

· Forks Branch Library, 171 S. Forks Ave., on Monday, Aug. 4, at 1 p.m.

· Clallam Bay Branch Library, 16990 Hwy. 112, on Monday, Aug. 11, at 3 p.m.

In addition to these sessions, Bridge will lead the “Writing Workshop: Where I’m From” event on Saturday, July 26, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Sekiu Community Center, 42 Rice Street. Participants will explore personal storytelling inspired by George Ella Lyon’s poem “Where I’m From.” The form encourages writers to craft lines beginning with “I am from,” followed by meaningful details, images, or phrases from their own lives.

Bridge will also be the featured poet in the Coast Lines Summer Salon Series on Tuesday, Aug. 26, at 6 p.m. at Gentle House, 1215 W. 11th St., Port Angeles. Themed “Poetry as a Hub,” the evening includes an ice cream social, poetry tarot, a poetry reading and open mic. Poetry writers, admirers and novices are welcome.

Learn more about the Poet Laureate and find events listed at NOLS.org/poet. If you have questions or an idea for future collaboration with Bridge, email PoetLaureate@nols.org.

The Clallam County Poet Laureate position is supported by the North Olympic Library Foundation and Clallam County.