Who are you?

We’re a bunch of writers in the Northampton area—novelists, journalists, screenwriters, researchers, poets, copywriters, and other freelancers —who wanted somewhere different to work.  We wanted a place to write where we could leave our bags without fear of theft; a place where we wouldn’t have to justify our presence by purchasing endless cups of coffee; a place where we wouldn’t be distracted by household chores or the lure of naps.  And, of course, a place to meet other writers.

 

Who can join the Writers’ Mill?

We welcome anyone who needs a quiet space to work on a writing project.  You don’t have to be published.  Membership is by application; please see our Contact Us page for further information.

 

How does it work?
The Writers’ Mill has two types of membership.

 

Personal Desk: $330/quarter (equivalent to $110/month)
You share a private office with 1 or 2 other people.  You bring in your own desk, office chair and other furniture for your sole use. 

Open Desk: $240/quarter (equivalent to $80/month)
You have access to the Open Desk Room, which has five communal desks.  When you come to work, you sit down at a free desk and write.  When you leave, you clear your things off the desk and, if you like, store them in your cubby.  We’ll keep the number of members small enough that you should always find an open desk whenever you arrive.
 

All members have access to the Writers’ Mill twenty-four hours a day and the use of all amenities.

Are there other charges?

We ask for a one-time start-up fee of $80. 

 

Do you have part-time membership?

No.

 

What kind of commitment do I need to make?

We’d like a three-month commitment from each of our writers.  We also ask one-month’s notice when you plan to leave.

 

How big is the Writers’ Mill?

We have three offices for personal desks, one open desk room, and a lounge.  We can accommodate about 20 writers.  When the Writers’ Mill fills up, we keep a waiting list.

 

Can I use a typewriter?

Sorry, no.  We ask that our writers write quietly. 

 

Can I talk on the phone?

In the open desk room, no.  But if you have a personal desk — and an officemate who doesn’t mind — you can talk on the phone in there.  Currently, many of our personal desks are used by journalists and other freelancers who need to have phone access.  Unfortunately, cell phone coverage is spotty in the building.  Several members who need to make calls for work use Skype to get around this problem.

 

Do you have Internet access?

Yes, we have free wireless high-speed Internet.

 

What other amenities do you provide?

The Writers’ Mill has central AC, a kitchenette (with coffee maker, fridge, microwave, and water cooler), a furnished lounge, a phone for local calls, and a great community of writers.

 

Do you allow pets?

In deference to those with allergies, we don’t.

 

Do you allow smoking?

No.

 

Where are you located?

We’re in the Cutlery Building in Florence, a converted mill filled with a mix of professionals and businesses (neighbors include a masseuse, a chocolatier, and a game developer.) Although we’re not in walking distance of downtown Florence, you can get coffee, snacks and meals across the street at Smitty’s (also known as the Village General Store.)

 

Is there parking?

Yes, there’s free parking on site.

 

Can I take public transportation to the Writers’ Mill?

That would be a little difficult.  It’s a hike from the bus stops in Florence.

 

Do you have a mailing list?

Yes.  Send us an email and we’ll put you on it.