FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is WriterHouse?
WriterHouse is a non-profit corporation in Charlottesville, Virginia, dedicated to the support of authors of all levels and genres, offering work space, writing classes and one-day seminars, critique groups, readings and events. In other words, a community for writers and enthusiasts of the literary arts.
Where are you?
We are located in the first floor of 508 Dale Avenue, directly behind Preston Avenue Bodos. Which is really convenient if you work up an appetite while you’re writing.
I’ve never really written before. Is WriterHouse just for professional writers?
WriterHouse is a community for all writers, of all ages and experience levels, including those who are just getting started, those who are beginning to be published, and those who are accustomed to seeing their work in print. Many have day jobs, some are stay-at-home moms or dads. The only requirement is the desire to write.
I see you offer space for writing. Why do I need to come to WriterHouse when I can work in a coffee shop or at home for free?
WriterHouse is a space dedicated specifically to writing. Writing rooms are quiet, without distraction, and infused with the energy of other writers at work. For those who enjoy the social aspect of coffee houses, there is the kitchen, where members can interact with other writers, use the reference books and study the many literary journals and books on craft available there. With free coffee and internet, no ringing phone to answer and no laundry to do, there really are no excuses not to settle in and write.
How can I be involved with WriterHouse?
Become a member, sign up for writing classes, sign up for work space, donate, volunteer — there are many many ways you can be part of our community.
Do I have to be a member to take your writing classes?
You do not need to be a member to take our classes, but members get a discount on classes, so why wouldn’t you join? And there are some very cool member perks — check out the section on memberships.
When are your writing classes?
We offer Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring sessions, along with some one and two day workshops and seminars. If you are a member, you will get early notification of the classes. Or sign up for our email list and we’ll send you notification as soon as our class schedule for each session is posted on the web site under the top “Programs” tab. Keep your eye on the WriterHouse calendar — you never know when something might be coming up.
What kind of writing classes do you offer?
We offer beginning and advanced fiction writing classes, poetry, nonfiction, memoir writing, screenwriting, mystery writing, songwriting, and just about any other kind of writing you can think of. So whatever your interest, there will be something for you. And if you don’t see it, then suggest it. If there’s enough interest, if we can find a qualified instructor, and if it’s legal, we’ll probably offer it.
What about inclement weather?
If the weather is iffy, we will make a determination on cancelling classes and open hours a few hours beforehand. We do not base our decision on the local schools, as they have to make their decisions early in the morning and often the situation has changed dramatically by the time our classes are ready to start.

We try to avoid cancelling classes whenever possible, as it is difficult to coordinate everybody’s schedule to set up a make-up class. Below are the times when we will make a determination. After that time, we will send an email to your class email list, the WriterHouse website main page (writerhouse.org), Facebook and Twitter. If you can’t get to a computer, phone to check the voicemail outgoing message (296-1922).

Evening classes that start at 6:30 and evening open hours–decision will be posted by 3pm
Morning classes that start at 9:00 or 9:30 and morning open hours–decision will be posted by 7:00am
Afternoon classes that start at 1:00pm and afternoon open hours–decision will be posted by 10:00am

Do you offer financial assistance?

WriterHouse offers need-based scholarships on a sliding scale. If you wish to apply for financial assistance, please download and fill out the Scholarship Application. 

Can my group use meeting space in WriterHouse?
WriterHouse has meeting space for use by our members. At least one member of the group attending the meeting must be a member of WriterHouse. If everyone in the meeting group is a WriterHouse member, there is no cost. If anyone in the group is not a member, the charge is $10 per hour. Scheduling is subject to availability of the space and someone to come and unlock the door. Email writers@writerhouse.org to inquire.
What is your refund policy for classes and seminars?

If you need to cancel your enrollment for any reason, please email us at programs@writerhouse.org. Our refund policy for cancellations is as follows:

3 weeks before the class or seminar start date: Eligible for a full refund.

1-3 weeks before the class or seminar start date: Eligible for a full credit towards a future class or seminar.

Less than 1 week before the class or seminar start date: Not eligible for credit or a refund.

In the event that we have to cancel a class or seminar for lack of enrollment or another reason, you are eligible for a full refund or credit towards a future class. If your payment was made via PayPal, you will be eligible for a full refund, minus the nonrefundable PayPal fee.