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Abdel Gawad will be working on a new novel set in 1930s-1950s Cairo during the “golden age” of Egyptian performing arts.

In addition to completing her manuscript, Abdel Gawad will lead a series of library programs for all ages and offer outreach visits to Wilton schools during her residency.

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Abdel Gawad was selected by a Committee that included representatives from the library staff, Board of Trustees, and contributors to the Endowment Fund, as well as authors and publishers.

The pool of applicants featured more than 100 writers from 23 states from a wide variety of literary genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, drama, and screenwriting. 

The application period for the 2024 residency is now closed.

The Cornerstone Writer-in-Residence is selected through the following application process:
1. Writer submits application by April 30, 2024
2. Selection Committee reviews applications in May 2024
3. Selection Committee interviews finalists in June 2024 and selects Writer-in-Residence to begin in September 2024

For more information please contact Caroline Mandler, Executive Director & Selection Committee chair at cmandler@wiltonlibrary.org

Is housing included?

Housing is not included with the residency. The Writer-in-Residence will be responsible for securing their own housing.

Do I need to be a resident of Wilton or CT?

No, you do not need to be a resident of Wilton or CT. We welcome applicants from any location. However you will be expected to spend time in-person at the library on a regular basis.

How is the stipend paid?

The $30,000 stipend will be paid in monthly installments beginning in September 2024. The Writer-in-Residence will receive a 1099 at the end of the calendar year.

When will I hear back about my application?

Finalists will be notified in early June 2024. Please refer to the application page for the full timeline.

Where is the office space located?

The Writer-in-Residence will have access to a study room in the Library. The Writer-in-Residence is responsible for securing their own transportation to and from the Library.

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About the Library

Wilton Library is a non-profit Association Library located in the center of the town of Wilton, CT, a community of 18,000+ residents. Wilton Library is dedicated to its mission to serve as the cultural and intellectual center of Wilton by delivering outstanding services and resources, presenting a robust schedule of programs for all ages, and embracing the latest in technological innovations. The Library is also home to The Brubeck Collection, which is one of the preeminent jazz archives in the world.

Wilton is located in Fairfield County, Connecticut. Wilton is 55 miles from Manhattan and is within driving distance from Westchester County, New York. The Town is accessible from routes 7, 33, 106, and 107. Wilton is only one hour from Grand Central Station on the New Haven Line Danbury branch of Metro-North Railroad, which runs a daily commuter service.

About the Endowment Fund

The Wilton Library Endowment Fund serves as the organization’s financial bridge to the future. Established for the long-term preservation of Wilton Library Association and its mission, the Endowment Fund will safeguard the important role that Wilton Library plays in our community today and in perpetuity. Read more about the fund.