Paging Columbus
Frequently Asked Questions
When/where is Paging Columbus held?
Paging Columbus is held the first (or sometimes second) Thursday of every month at The OSU Urban Arts Space.
Is there a cover?
Never. Paging Columbus is FREE. There are also refreshments for everyone to enjoy (like coffee and cookies) free of charge. Sometimes, writers do have their books available for purchase (without any pressure, of course).
I'm a writer who would like to read at Paging Columbus. How are writers chosen? How do I learn more about this?
Writers are chosen by Hannah Stephenson (and sometimes others), based on theme/event/interest. Sometimes, other organizations guest host Paging Columbus. The schedule is often somewhat loosely set a month or two in advance, so please keep this in mind for all requests.
I'm a writer who does not live in Columbus, but I'm passing through/would like to read at Paging Columbus. Are out-of-town writers ever featured?
YES! All the time! We love it when writers from elsewhere (maybe on book tour, or maybe on a day or weekend trip) read for us. Get in touch with us.
Is there an open mic?
Paging Columbus is not an open mic night--there are 3-4 featured readers, or a panel discussion. Sometimes, audience members will share a piece when the event calls for it. However, there are plenty of excellent open mic nights around town (see Community tab).
What kinds of writing will I hear if I go to Paging Columbus?
All kinds--poetry, prose (both fiction and creative nonfiction), drama. We have also had panels of songwriters, publishers, bloggers, scholars, and artists. Often, readers will share a piece that they did not write (along with their own work).
What's the deal with the titles/themes?
The titles of the events are meant to serve as loose themes to anchor the work shared in an evening. The theme helps the readers select work. Also, the theme prompts weirdness and creativity, which is always a good thing. The theme is not strict, nor is it interpreted literally. Examples include "Cabinet of Curiosities," "Haunts," "Truth or Dare," and "The Book as Object (A Panel)."
How is parking downtown?
There are plenty of options for getting to the Space. If you're close to downtown, you can take the free Circulator that runs between the Short North and German Village. There are a number of COTA lines that run up and down High Street that are good options. There are a few parking garages in the area (the Columbus Commons garage, for example), and lots of parking meters that are available (and free!) after 6 PM. Just read the signs carefully...
How accessible is this venue/location?
The Urban Arts Space is very accessible. Here's more information about that.
Who is this event for?
Anyone who wants to be inspired or think creatively. Of course, if you love writing and literature, you'll like our events. But many other artists, creative thinkers, or people who just want to try something new also enjoy Paging Columbus. All are welcome.
I'm a publisher/editor of a magazine/member of a writing group. Can we share our work at Paging Columbus?
We love, love, LOVE working with literary groups! Don't hesitate to get in touch!
I have ideas for an event/questions about readings. Can I ask you?
Absolutely! Please get in touch. We love collaborating, and have featured musicians, artists, and publishers as well as writers.