Junction Reads has been presenting great prose since 2014. A unique reading series that presents the best fiction and non-fiction from independently published Canadian authors. The last 11 years has been the greatest joy, and I cannot imagine losing this series (yet another reading series in Toronto to die for lack of money). BUT it is getting more difficult to continue without additional funds. We are grateful to every author who has shared their work with us over the years, many of whom graciously accept their share of revenue earned at the door, through donations and raffle ticket sales, and some who’ve donated it right back to the series.
We really need your help! (Donate here)
As usual, we have applied to every eligible grant and so far, we have not been successful. While we await the results of the latest Toronto Arts Council funding, we must look for ways to pay our authors, beyond the small amount we get at the door and through ticket sales. While many of you support us with your attendance and by sharing our posts on social media, we are asking (begging, really) for a little bit more.
This year, we have scheduled 28 authors to read at our in-person events at TYPE Books in the Junction and at our online one-on-one events. And we would like to pay them what they deserve. We have budgeted fees according to the Writer’s Union of Canada pay scale, which means that we need at least $5600 to cover those costs.
BUT THERE IS MORE!
Do you know that Cayley has been our event co-ordinator for 11 years and has only ever enjoyed consistent hugs (I do give good hugs) and an occasional free meal? While their chosen vocation and dedication to the series is proof that they love books and authors, I wouldn’t mind paying them for their time and expertise. And, this year, Heather Wood has joined us as curatorial consultant and (if we’re lucky) occasional host and it would be nice to pay her for her time. Beyond the time it takes to manage the social media pages, read the books, develop an engaging Q and A, we are also challenged with the costs of the website, the domain, Canva, Zoom Pro, and all the printed materials.
While we all volunteer our time, and sometimes our own money, we have to take this to the next level. This is where you come in. (Donate here.)
We have set a goal of $7000, which is a scary amount of money to ask for. And while I know many of you may not be able to support us financially, please know that we are grateful for ANY support. If you can, please share this post; add your name to our email subscriber list; join us at our events and contribute what you can, and most importantly, check out our upcoming schedule (when it’s live) and read the books! We have chosen to use our Stripe account for donations, as we plan on having online payments available at future events. If you have any questions on where we are with our goals, and how the money has been distributed, do not hesitate to contact me through our About page.
We are grateful to TYPE Books in the Junction for offering their space and the talents of Jess Felicite, their events coordinator. We are grateful for the consistent support of so many writer friends and colleagues who show up and share our events.
Thanks for taking the time to read, and a great big virtual hug to all of you for your support!
Alison
Junction Reads 
Leave a comment