A New Era for Author Events
In the city of Philadelphia, home to a thriving literary scene, the Free Library of Philadelphia (FLP) has been a beacon for book lovers and writers alike. The Author Events series, which was once a staple of the library’s programming, has been a mainstay of the literary community. However, in a recent decision, the FLP has introduced a ticket price for all events, sparking controversy and concerns among writers, readers, and the community at large.
The Initial Reception
The launch of the novel Housemates by author [Author Name] at the Parkway Central Library last May marked the beginning of a new era for the Author Events series. Surrounded by friends and bookish strangers from all walks of life, the event was a celebration of Philadelphia’s literary community. The night was free to attend, and it was clear that the FLP was committed to making literature accessible to all.
The Departure of the Author Events Team
However, just six days later, all four staff members who made the series possible submitted their resignations before being dismissed. The news sent shockwaves through the literary community, and it soon became clear that the departure was not just a coincidence. The staff team had been working tirelessly to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for authors and readers alike.
Concerns Over Pricing and Programming
The introduction of a ticket price for all events has raised concerns among writers and readers about the accessibility of the Author Events series. With the need to register with a credit card and pay a $5 fee, the event has become more expensive than ever. This has led to a divide between the FLP and the community, with some feeling that the new pricing structure is a step backward.
- Jennifer Weiner expressed her concerns on social media, stating that the Author Events staff had always done an outstanding job and that showing up as if business as usual didn’t feel right.
- Sara Nović, author of last year’s One Book, One Philadelphia pick, True Biz, noted that the new ticket costs create an unnecessary barrier to entry for one of the library’s most popular and influential programs.
The Response of the New Director
Daniel Blank, the new director of the revamped Author Events series, has defended the decision to introduce a ticket price. He stated that the new pricing structure is an attempt to decrease registration attrition and create a more standardized and equitable pricing structure. However, this decision has not gone unnoticed, and many are questioning the wisdom of introducing a fee for an event that is meant to be inclusive and welcoming.
The introduction of the ticket price has had a significant impact on the community, with many feeling that it creates a barrier to access for everyday folks. The events team has been actively exploring ways to make the events more accessible, including initiatives such as chartering buses to bring people to events and offering free blocks of tickets.
| Initiative | Cost | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Chartering buses to bring people to events | Free | Increased accessibility for attendees |
| Offering free blocks of tickets | Free | Increased accessibility for attendees |
The introduction of the ticket price has also highlighted a broader fracture between the FLP and the public. The circumstances surrounding the former Author Events team’s resignation last year, and the apparent philosophical shift in the kind of writers who are featured in the series, have created a divide. The events team said they left because of a “heartbreaking” workplace culture.
“Cruelty” was the word used by former library employees to describe the lack of leadership and communication from the foundation and the library, which had the impact of creating a negative work environment.
The future of the Author Events series is uncertain, and many are questioning whether the FLP has made a mistake by introducing a ticket price. However, the library has stated that it will collect community feedback on the new pricing structure, and that it will continue to explore ways to make the events more accessible.
