By Elissa Andre

Did you know that author Frank McCourt published his first book, the Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir “Angela’s Ashes,” at age 66?

It’s never too late to explore your passions; whether you have always dreamed of becoming a writer or have many years of experience under your belt, Johnson County Library’s Writers Conference is a wonderful resource to explore the topic and connect with others who share your interest.

After two challenging years hosting the conference online, the Writers Conference—now in its seventh year and at no cost to attendees—is back in person Nov. 17-20 at the newly refreshed Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th St, Overland Park.

This year’s theme is “Art for Impact,” which explores not only how art can inspire writing, but also what it means to put your writing into the world and how it can transform you. This is not an event about publishing, but about the writing craft: skill-building, learning, and having work edited and critiqued. Participants will share ideas and inspiration, meet with published authors and other creatives, and have a chance to network and learn from each other.

This year’s conference, which is expected to attract about 300 attendees of all ages, features 22 presenters and nearly 50 different session options, including a workshop by poet and author Anne-Marie Oomen about writing your life’s stories and sharing your legacy.

The Library encourages in-person attendance, for workshops sharing original writing, yoga and meditation sessions, writing in the newly-renovated Strang Park behind Central, and stimulating conversations.

For those who cannot attend, the lectures and panel discussions will be available on the Library’s website through Library OnDemand, to view live or later.

Registrants can pick up a free copy of the conference text “Creative Acts for Curious People” while supplies last at Central Resource Library, and all attendees will receive a conference notebook.

To register for the conference or get more information about the schedule of events, visit jocolibrary.org/writersconference or call 913-826-4600.

Elissa Andre is external communication manager for Johnson County Library.