Maker-In-Residence Program Logo

LORAIN PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM MAKER-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAM

The Maker-in-Residence program connects the public with art and the people who create it and includes various art forms such as theater and performing arts, visual arts, technology arts, media arts, written arts and music. Two residencies run concurrently, each at the LPLS branch best suited for the artist or maker, and last for three months. Regular open studio hours at the library allow the makers and artists to create on-site as patrons drop in, interact and learn about different artistic processes. Each maker also offers special free workshops for the public each month.

Be our next Maker! Click here for an application.

Spring 2025

Calil Cage and Morgan Paige Shorts

March through May at the Main Library

Headshot of Calil Cage

Calil Cage is a spoken word artist, author, speaker and educator with The Sparrow’s Fortune.

Circle logo with a Sparrow pulling a treasurer chest with the words "The Sparrow's Fortune"

Headshot of Morgan Paige

Morgan Paige Shorts is a spoken word artist, educator and author dedicated to artistic expression and community empowerment. As the Founder and Creative Director of Poetry Unplugged LLC, she has built an Open Mic Experience that fosters inclusivity and creativity. She also serves as Managing Director of The Sparrow’s Fortune.

The Sparrow’s Fortune, established in 2022, transitioned from a performing arts collective into a community-centered organization in 2023. By 2024, they extended their reach across Ohio while launching innovative programs like the Cleveland-based Xpressions Retreat, the first of its kind in the Midwest, Project R.O.O.T., providing transformative writing workshops founded on emotional intelligence and mental well-being and Poetry Unplugged Jr., empowering teens through spoken word and artistic expression. Their mission remains to inspire, educate and uplift our community through arts, entertainment and creative writing workshops.

Open Studio Hours

Tuesdays, 11 a.m to 1 p.m.
March 4, 18; May 13

Thursdays, 3 to 5 p.m.
March 13, 27

Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
April 3, 17; May 1

Wednesdays, 3 to 5 p.m.
April 9, 23

Wednesday, May 7
5:30 to 7 p.m.

Wednesday, May 21
3 to 4:30 p.m.

Friday, May 30
Noon to 2 p.m.

Workshops

Adult Writing Workshops
Wednesdays, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
March 5; April 9; May 7
A dynamic writing workshop exploring the intersection of art and storytelling. Learn insights and techniques that spark imagination and creativity. Preregistration required.

Youth Writing Workshops
Wednesdays, 3 to 4:30 p.m.
March 19; May 21
This fun and interactive workshop is designed for young writers and creators in grades 5 to 12 to explore the magic of storytelling and self expression. Preregistration required.

Writing Workshop for Wise Creators
Saturday, April 12
5:30 to 7 p.m.
An inspiring writing workshop designed for seasoned storytellers and lifelong learners. Explore the power of storytelling and art as tools for self expression, connection and creativity. Preregistration required.