Everyone has a story to tell, so what’s yours? Librarians are asking the question in National Novel Writing Month.

Each year in November, NaNoWriMo, a global event since its inception in 1999, challenges scribes from around the world to write a 50,000-word first draft novel in just 30 days.

Throughout the month, Kiama and Gerringong libraries will support people in their journey to draft a novel by hosting a series of writing workshops with four local, published authors.

The goal is to inspire those attempting to write “The Great Australian Novel”, says Kiama Library manager Michelle Hudson.

“All public libraries are about lifelong learning,” says Michelle. “We are always running different programs, including author events which often attract audiences who are thinking of, or already are, writing.”

With a community full of talented creatives, there is no shortage of would-be writers out there. Nor is there a shortage of local mentors willing to share their tips and tricks of the story-writing trade.

“The people who come along to author events always ask lots of questions at the end of the session, they really want to understand the writing process so they can take that next step,” says Michelle.

But it’s not always an easy journey. One of the biggest takeaways Michelle has learned from going to many author talks is that “the words don't just stream out of you”.

“Writing a novel can be a real battle at times, you really have to be dedicated,” she says.

“Even authors who have written 15, 20 books can still find it difficult and some novels will come easier than others, it’s not an easy process.”

Michelle says that’s why it’s such a privilege to have local authors share their knowledge.

“People always get a lot out of these workshops and it’s an affordable way for them to get support in their writing journey,” she says.

“Authors who have participated in NaNoWriMo have even been published, so it's a great activity that happens around the world to inspire so many people to pick up that pen.”

The workshops will kick-off on November 7 with author Maria Lewis who will run a session called Crafting Stories for any medium.

Maria will provide tips and tricks to help writers create a novel, short story, novella, podcast, film, or feature article.

If Maria has a writing superpower it’s diversity. The AWGIE award-winning filmmaker and author of the Supernatural Sisters book series has written for Marvel and Assassin’s Creed and also directed The House That Hungers, a short horror film.

On November 14, Dave Warner, who has written more than 25 books, including 15 crime novels, will help budding writers develop outlines for their whodunnits. The workshop is interactive and Dave will challenge writers to tackle different categories of crime-writing.

Dave likes to fly by the seat of his pants so participants will be encouraged to toss ideas into the fire to form the bare bones of several crime novels.

Maggie Dent will host a workshop called Understanding the Writing Process on November 21, and if you’re lucky, the parenting expert may even throw in a few tips on understanding your toddler or teen.

She is one of the nation’s favourite parenting authors, educators and podcasters and has written 10 books on the topic.

Just as she does with will parenting Maggie will explore what helps and what hinders, along with the why and the how. She will discuss attention to detail and editing tips, and how to release your baby from the nest and launch your book into the world of publishing.

In true Maggie style she will unpack the writing process from beginning to end.

Suzanne Leal will finish off the month on November 28, sharing story starters for those struck by the dreaded writer’s block.

The author of several novels, including a children’s book, is a popular speaker at literary events and schools and her goal is to always make “writing accessible and to make it sing”.

“I am interested in vulnerability, in all its dimensions,” says Suzanne. “I want to look at what makes people vulnerable, how their vulnerability manifests, how they deal with it themselves and how they deal with those around them.”

Suzanne’s interactive workshop is designed to kickstart creativity for those stuck on a current project or putting pen to paper for the first time. She will set a series of timed writing exercises to spark new ideas and allow writers to experiment with language, voice, and form.

Workshop spaces are limited, and budding writers can register through https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1453151.