Mother Tongue: a Weekend of Women’s Voices brings together outstanding women poets, writers, authors, and readers from our community for a weekend of literary enjoyment and appreciation. As we kick off Women’s History Month this March, Lily Books & Cafe and the Cumberland Chapter of the Maryland Writers’ Association are partnering to offer an exciting program of lit-focused events highlighting and celebrating women’s voices. Featured events include a women’s poetry reading and open mic night at Loft 129, followed by a panel of local author readings and discussion, a luncheon and book signings, and ending the day with a hands-on writing workshop, all at Lily Books & Cafe. Mother Tongue is free to attend and open to all genders. We hope you will join us in celebration, community, and creativity.

Friday, March 6 — Women's Poetry Night & Open Mic @ Loft 129

Join us for the opening event on Friday March 6th for a Women’s Poetry Night & Open Mic at Loft 129 in downtown Cumberland. Local literary ladies will take to the stage and read from their work, followed by an open mic session open to all genders, backgrounds, experiences, and genres.

Doors open at 7:30 PM. Readings start at 8 PM. Cash bar will be open and additional refreshments are available for purchase downstairs at Lily Books & Cafe. This event is free and open to all. Come to read. Come to listen. Leave inspired!

Saturday, March 7 — Women Author Reading & Discussion

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Lily Books & Cafe and the Maryland Writers’ Association will bring together local women authors to read from their published works for a morning of coffee and conversation. Authors will share work that navigates diverse personal and collective experiences, as well as writing genres. Lily Books will open at 10 AM for morning refreshments and readings begin at 10:30 at the Roundtable downstairs. Stick around for an author Q&A and discussion. Books by selected authors will be available for purchase and signing during the lunch hour.

Saturday, March 7 — Women's Writing Workshop

Interested in writing but don’t know where to start? Feeling uninspired and in need of a creative boost? Join us for an engaging and interactive writing workshop hosted by Ellen Coffey, Doris Brady, and Heather M from the Maryland Writers’ Association. Through guided exercises, reflective prompts, and discussion, you’ll learn how to transform raw ideas into original language and leave the session feeling free to write. In addition, we may learn a little literary women’s trivia along the way. The workshop starts at 1:30 PM meeting at the Lily Books Roundtable downstairs. Writers and the writing curious of all skill levels are welcome.

This event is free and open to all genders. Space is limited and RSVP is encouraged. Be sure not to miss this unique and inspiring event!

To RSVP, email us at lilybooksandcafe@gmail.com.