Kathleen Masterson, Director (212) 741-2622
Christine Leahy, Associate (212) 741-7404

The Literature Program offers support to a wide range of organizations that promote the creation, publication, and dissemination of contemporary literary writing and encourage its appreciation by the general public. Literary genres supported include fiction, poetry, drama, and literary (creative) nonfiction, defined as writing about writing and writers.

The Program offers support for public readings and workshops, small press and literary magazine publications, literary translations, and special projects of unique importance to an organization's or the field's development. The Program welcomes literary proposals that are creative in their use of technology and new media. New applicants to the Literature Program are welcomed and are strongly advised to consult with Program staff well before the March registration deadline.

The Program is committed to the development and support of literary activity for underserved areas and audiences. Priority is given to applicants that demonstrate a consistent policy of payment to writers and substantial efforts to reach a wide audience through creative programming and promotional efforts. The Program is also committed to supporting writers who represent the cultural diversity of New York State.

Evaluative Criteria

Grant requests in this Program are evaluated in accordance with the relevant agency-wide criteria.

Artistic Evaluation

The Council must be able to evaluate an applicant's artistic quality on an ongoing basis. It is the responsibility of all current and prospective applicants to inform the Program of public programs at least four weeks in advance of the event date. This is required so that staff, advisory panelists, or program auditors may attend and evaluate the events.