News Summary
After more than 57 years of enriching the community through literary events, the Huntsville Literary Association (H.L.A.) has ceased operations. The organization, known for hosting notable authors and events, has donated its remaining funds to the Huntsville Madison County Public Library, ensuring the continuation of literary initiatives. As the community shifts towards modern reading habits, the library prepares to host exciting events, including an upcoming appearance by author Andy Weir. Former members are encouraged to stay connected through volunteer opportunities in the literary arts.
Huntsville Literary Association Bows Out, Donates to Library in Heartfelt Gesture
Huntsville has bid farewell to a treasured institution, the Huntsville Literary Association (H.L.A.), after a remarkable run of more than 57 years. This beloved organization was known for hosting a plethora of author events, bringing literary luminaries like Truman Capote and Eudora Welty to local audiences. Unfortunately, as times change, so do the interests and habits of the community, prompting the H.L.A. to conclude its operations.
A Legacy of Literature
The H.L.A. created cherished memories for locals with readings from some of the most notable authors of the 20th century. Truman Capote, for instance, enchanted an audience in Huntsville with tales from his New Yorker stories, all the while injecting a bit of humor about his Southern upbringing and its colorful language. Meanwhile, Pulitzer Prize winner Eudora Welty humbly appreciated the noteworthy turnout at her reading event organized by the H.L.A., proving that great literature can pull in a crowd.
The association didn’t just stop at author readings; it sponsored professional performances of Shakespeare, a Young Writers’ Contest that inspired budding talents, and even hosted informal writing salons in members’ homes. Additionally, they published a literary magazine called “Poem,” which showcased poetry from around the nation and beyond.
Generations of young creators benefited from the Young Writers’ Contest, and many winners have continued to engage with the literary arts over the years. The organization honored poetic excellence with an annual “Poet’s Choice” award, giving out chapbooks that collected the finest poetry. These programs energized the community but have slowly dwindled over time.
Change in Reading Habits
The decline in attendance at literary events can be attributed to changing lifestyles. Modern families increasingly prioritize school events and digital reading materials, leading to decreased interest in poetry and a noticeable reduction in the number of independent bookstores. As the fabric of communal literary life altered, the H.L.A. Board of Directors, faced with these challenges, made the tough decision to close their doors for good.
In a heartwarming twist, the H.L.A. decided to donate its remaining funds—about $9,500—to the Huntsville Madison County Public Library. This generous contribution is earmarked to support future literary events, ensuring that the love for books continues. A particularly exciting upcoming event at the library is titled “Vive le Livre,” which means “Long live the book.”
Exciting Future for Literary Arts
A well-known figure, Andy Weir, the author of “The Martian,” will be the featured speaker at this year’s Vive le Livre event scheduled for September. As excitement builds for the event, it is evident that the community’s affection for literature is alive and well.
With a rich history spanning over 200 years, the Huntsville library is primed to continue its commitment to fostering literary arts, despite the conclusion of the H.L.A. Brooke Rawlins, the Development Director, is dedicated to promoting various literary initiatives, ensuring that the spark ignited by the H.L.A. lives on.
Engaging the Community
In a call to action, former H.L.A. members are encouraged to volunteer at library events, contributing their passion for writing and storytelling. Additionally, Bramble Stories will host upcoming storytelling performances at the Shenanigans Comedy Theatre this April, offering a delightful evening titled “The Last Straw.” Local storyteller Melissa Ford Thornton, a prior H.L.A. member, is also making waves in the storytelling community, reminding us of the importance of sharing our personal narratives.
Thornton’s insights reveal that storytelling can emerge from our everyday conversations, highlighting the organic nature of collecting stories. With the future bright for literary arts in Huntsville, it’s clear that while the H.L.A. may be closing a chapter, the love for literature continues to flourish.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Huntsville Prepares for a Night of Storytelling with Local Talent
Additional Resources
- AL.com: Huntsville Literary Association Ends 57-Year Run
- Wikipedia: Literary Association
- AL.com: Storytellers Sharing Their Bramble Stories
- Google Search: Huntsville Literary Association
- Laughlin Service: Nancy Jane McMahon Obituary
- Google Scholar: Huntsville Literary Events
- Laughlin Service: Mabry Batson Miller Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Literature Events
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
