Eligibility Requirements

Learn about the requirements for being listed in the Massachusetts Writers Directory.

Who Can Apply?

The Massachusetts Writers Directory is a free service of the Massachusetts Center for the Book designed to connect Massachusetts authors with readers, educators, librarians, and event organizers.

To be listed in the directory, you must meet the following basic requirements:

  • Massachusetts Connection - You must be a current Massachusetts resident OR have strong ties to Massachusetts.
  • Published Author - You must have at least one published book (traditionally or self-published with qualifications).
  • Professional Standards - Self-published books must meet professional quality standards (see below).

Massachusetts Connection Requirements

To be listed in the directory, you must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Current Resident: You currently live in Massachusetts.
  • Former Resident: You previously lived in Massachusetts and maintain significant ties to the state (e.g., setting books in Massachusetts, participating in Massachusetts literary events, connections to Massachusetts institutions).
  • Massachusetts-Based Work: Your work is primarily set in or focuses on Massachusetts history, culture, or communities.
  • Educational Connection: You attended a Massachusetts school or university and maintain ongoing connections to the state's literary community.

Publication Requirements

Traditionally Published Authors

If you have at least one book published by a traditional publishing house (including small presses and university presses), you automatically qualify for the directory.

Traditional publishing includes:

  • Major publishing houses (Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, etc.)
  • Independent and small presses
  • University presses
  • Specialty publishers in your genre

Self-Published Authors

Self-published and hybrid-published authors are welcome! However, to maintain professional standards, self-published books must meet at least 2 of the following 4 criteria:

  1. Professional Editing - Book was professionally edited (developmental, copy editing, or proofreading by a paid professional editor)
  2. Professional Cover Design - Cover was designed by a professional book cover designer
  3. ISBN - Book has a purchased ISBN (not a free one from a publishing platform)
  4. Reviews or Recognition - Book has received editorial reviews, awards, or recognition from established literary organizations

What Doesn't Qualify

The following do not meet our publication requirements:

  • Unpublished manuscripts (even if under contract)
  • Blog posts, articles, or other short-form content
  • Works published only on platforms like Wattpad, Medium, or fan fiction sites
  • Vanity press publications that required payment for publication without meeting quality criteria
  • Pamphlets, booklets, or works under 50 pages
  • Works published anonymously or under undisclosed pseudonyms

Note: Chapbooks (poetry collections) of 30+ pages from recognized poetry presses are eligible.

Application Process

  1. Submit Your Application - Complete the online application form with your contact information, biography, book details, and headshot.

  2. Review Period - Our team reviews applications within 5-7 business days. We may contact you if we need additional information.

  3. Notification - You'll receive an email notification once your application has been approved or if we need more information.

  4. Profile Goes Live - Once approved, your author profile will be immediately visible in the directory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a fee to be listed in the directory?

No! The Massachusetts Writers Directory is a free service provided by the Massachusetts Center for the Book.

Can I list books published under a pen name?

Yes! You can use your pen name as your public display name and list books published under that name. Your legal name is only used for our internal records.

I'm a children's book illustrator. Can I apply?

Currently, the directory is focused on authors (writers). However, if you are both the author and illustrator of your books, you are welcome to apply. Author-illustrators should emphasize their writing in their biography.

My book isn't published yet but will be soon. Can I apply?

Please wait until your book is officially published before applying. We require at least one published work for eligibility verification.

How do I update my profile after approval?

You can request updates to your profile by contacting us through the update request form. We're working on a self-service update system for the future.

What if my application is declined?

If your application doesn't meet our current requirements, we'll let you know why. You're welcome to reapply once you meet the eligibility criteria.

Are You a Massachusetts Author?

Join the directory to connect with readers and expand your audience.

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