By Victoria Galan, Miami-Dade Public Library System

Applications for the Miami-Dade Public Library System’s Young Adult Writer-in-Residence program – a project made possible through the support of the Knight Foundation – is coming to a close. Applications are being accepted through Saturday, June 30, 2012. If you are a teen or know a teen, ages 13-18, visit www.mdpls.org to complete an online application.

Teens from nearly 30 different Miami-Dade high schools have already submitted their applications along with a sample of their writing. They are vying for one of 20 coveted spots and the chance to be mentored by young adult author Kekla Magoon. The Library System will be welcoming Ms. Magoon at the end of the summer, but you can get to know Ms. Magoon by checking out one of her award-winning young adult novels at a branch near you.

The Young Adult Writer-in-Residence program runs September – November 2012 and will offer teens the opportunity to develop their writing skills. The program will provide them with a platform to receive critique and feedback on their short stories, poems, and other writings by a published young adult author. Ms. Magoon will also mentor the teens on writing both as a creative outlet and as a profession.