Annual collection highlights 100 local authors and more than a decade of community storytelling
Victoria, BC – The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) has released its 11th Emerging Local Authors Collection (ELAC), making the work of 100 authors from 10 municipalities across southern Vancouver Island available to the community.
The collection was unveiled on Saturday, May 23, during a celebration at the Central Branch, marking more than a decade of the program that features independently published works by local authors. Since 2015, more than 1,700 titles have been featured as part of the annual collection.
“Each year, this collection highlights the depth and range of writing in our region,” said Maureen Sawa, Chief Executive Officer of GVPL. “For a lot of these authors, getting their book into a public library is a significant moment. It means their work is findable, borrowable, and sitting alongside books from publishers with much bigger resources. We’re so proud to offer this platform and to celebrate these talented storytellers.”
Three authors from the inaugural 2015 collection have returned this year with new titles: Sever Bronny, Audrey Driscoll, and Martin Phipps. The 2026 collection covers a wide range of themes, including personal memoir, regional history, fantasy, wellness, identity, and family life. Most titles are self-published or independently published.
“The Emerging Local Authors Collection is an example of what public libraries do at their core: connect communities with ideas, experiences, and local stories,” said Duncan Cavens, Board Chair of GVPL. “When authors see their work on library shelves, it sends a message that their stories matter and belong here.”
Print copies of the 2026 Emerging Local Authors Collection are available at the Central Branch and can be requested for pickup at all GVPL locations. Ebooks are available through Libby, by OverDrive. Applications for the 12th annual collection will open this fall. More information is available at gvpl.ca.
Media Contact:
Kelly Ridgway
Marketing and Development
Greater Victoria Public Library
Office: (250) 940-4875 ext. 346
Mobile: (250) 883-2314
About Greater Victoria Public Library
Greater Victoria Public Library builds community and supports literacy and lifelong learning by providing free access to information, space, tools, and expertise. There are 12 branch locations within 10 local municipalities serving more than 380,000 residents. The virtual branch at gvpl.ca is open anytime, anywhere. GVPL is your place to connect, discover and imagine.