The Storytelling Certificate Program will provide support and structure as you create and share your stories, whether contemporary or historical, real or imagined. Free workshops and lectures taught by working writers and storytellers will help you grow your stories from a spark of inspiration into a polished, complete piece. You can earn a Storytelling Certificate in written or oral storytelling. People who have completed the Program are awarded a certificate of merit at the annual Storytelling Certificate Celebration held in December.
The Certificate Program will help you to:
- Describe different forms and styles of written or oral storytelling.
- Understand and apply core concepts, skills, and techniques necessary to create, develop, and publish or perform an original story.
- Engage in a community of writers and storytellers.
- Compare and evaluate various publication and performance models and opportunities.
- Understand how basic business concepts and tools apply to professional writing and storytelling.
- Cultivate opportunities and identify resources for continued creative practice
Written Storytelling Certificate Requirements
Creation
- Storycrafting Fundamentals
- Resources for Storytellers
- Introduction to Genre
Development
- Starting a Writing Project
- Writing Basics
- Intensive Editing Masterclass
- Story Center Writing Group (attend twice)
- Writing Elective
Sharing
- Marketing for Storytellers
- Copyright Basics
- The Business of Writing and Authorship
- Publishing Options and Opportunities
Capstone
- Participants will write 2,000-4,000 words of original content, an excerpt to be read at the Storytelling Certificate Celebration. More information can be found on our Capstone information page.
Oral Storytelling Certificate Requirements
Creation
- Storycrafting Fundamentals
- Resources for Storytellers
- Introduction to Storytelling Varieties
Development
- Starting to Tell Stories
- Performance Basics
- Performance Showcase and Masterclass
- Story Swap! (attend twice)
- Storytelling Elective
Sharing
- Marketing for Storytellers
- Copyright Basics
- Storytelling as a Business
- Performance Options and Opportunities
Capstone
- Participants will perform a 5-7-minute original story at the Storytelling Certificate Celebration. More information can be found on our Capstone information page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect from going through the Storytelling Certificate Program?
- Programs on topics ranging from getting started with your story idea to promoting your work
- Opportunities to showcase your stories
- A supportive, encouraging community of writers and storytellers
How long will it take me to complete the Certificate Program?
Programs are offered on a rotating, quarterly basis. Every required program is offered at least twice per year and will be offered virtually at least once. Determined individuals can complete their requirements in a year.
Can I complete the Certificate Program if I don’t have an MCPL card?
You do not have to be an MCPL cardholder to participate in the Certificate Program, though we encourage you to get a library card if you are eligible. Writers and storytellers who live outside the MCPL service area, or even in other states or countries, can register for any Story Center program. We have participants from other states and countries complete the Certificate Program by exclusively attending virtual programs every year.
Can I still attend programs if I don’t want to earn a Certificate?
Absolutely! All Story Center programs are free and open to anyone to attend.
Do I have to take the programs in order?
The Certificate Program is self-directed and flexible. Programs can be taken in any order, and there is no deadline or set time frame to complete the Certificate Program.
How much does it cost to participate?
As this is a public library service, there is no cost to participate in the Certificate Program!
Who teaches the programs?
Our facilitators include writers, tellers, publishers, and agents. We select working professionals who are known as experts in their field, whether they are a bestselling author or a nationally celebrated performer.
How do I sign up for the Storytelling Certificate Program?
Click the blue “Sign Up Now” button above and fill out the form. If you are an MCPL cardholder, be sure to include your library card number, and be sure that the email address you provide on the form matches the email address associated with your library card.
How do I reserve my spot for programs?
Each quarter, new programs are made available for registration. Visit The Story Center programs webpage to review open programs. You can log into your MCPL account to register or register as a guest. Space can be limited, so be sure to register ahead of time.
How can I track my progress?
If you are an MCPL card holder and currently signed up for the Storytelling Certificate Program, you can check your status online. You must be logged into your library account. If you live outside of the MCPL service area, you can get an update on your progress by reaching out to Melanie Pierce, at mpierce@mymcpl.org or (816)883-4780. If you want to track your progress yourself, we encourage you to download this form.
How is attendance verified?
At each in-person program, there is an attendance sheet where you should sign in. At each virtual program, do one of two things: 1) make your first and last name visible on Zoom or 2) message your first and last name privately to The Story Center facilitator. Participants should stay for the duration of each program to receive attendance credit.
Can you give me more information on the Capstones?
Please visit our Capstone page.
How can I present a program at The Story Center?
We are always looking for new presenters to teach storytelling programs at The Story Center. For more information, please contact Story Center Program Manager Melanie Pierce at mpierce@mymcpl.org or (816)883-4780.