If you've ever wondered what it takes to get published, now you have a chance to find out. Award-winning writer Johanna S. Billings will present a free seminar on how to get published at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Coplay Public Library, 49 S. Fifth St., Coplay.
Billings, who also happens to be the editor of the Whitehall-Coplay Press, will be providing an overview of how publishing works, from freelancing to staff positions, copyright to royalties. She will discuss how to break into print writing newspaper and magazines articles. The basics of getting a book published will also be covered as will finding markets for fiction.
The author of two books on antique glass, Billings made her living for 10 years as a freelance writer covering the antiques trade. She has also coauthored several books on local history and written magazine articles for markets ranging from Redbook and Cat Fancy to Builder/Architect and Kitchens and Baths magazine. She has won numerous Pennsylvania Newspaper Association Keystone awards in categories as diverse as investigative reporting and headline writing. Her work has also been recognized by the Pennsylvania Press Club, Pennsylvania Press Women's Association and National Federation of Press Women as well as Writer's Digest magazine and the Cassell Network of Writers.
Free to the public.

Princesses preparing for Middle Earth Theatre production at Coplay Public Library sponsored event at Coplay Community Days.
Thanks to all who stopped to support us at the Coplay Public Library stand whether by purchasing food, offering donations, or simply giving us encouragement in our efforts to keep the library in operation. We were overwhelmed by all the support. It was great to have a chance to talk to so many people who love the library as much as we do. Middle Earth Theatre, beloved by many (including library staff!) throughout the years did not disappoint-they put on a great show and got everyone involved in the production - and we have pictures to prove it! We will be adding more photos as they become available so check back again!
Star gazers gather at Coplay library by Deb Boylan, Special to the Press
The stars were in alignment at the Coplay Public Library for an astronomy workshop cohosted by the library and the Lehigh Valley Amateur Astronomical Society.
Special guest speaker Ron Kunkel, director of the society, delivered a talk and Power Point presentation discussing the shapes and formation of galaxies in the solar system and other topics pertaining to astronomy.
The goal of "The Galaxies for Non-Astronomers" seminar is to enable the lay person to gain a better understanding of the mysteries contained within the night sky, including what can be seen with the human eye and beyond, he said.
On display in the library was a detailed photograph of the moon taken Johanna S. Billings, the editor of the Whitehall-Coplay Press, shot with a Canon DSLR and telephoto lens, the photo provides a glimpse of the moon and its intricate surface textures. It remains on display at the library, 49 S. Fifth Street.
Jennifer Tarantino, of Coplay, attended the talk with her two children, Megan, 4, and James, 12. While Megan occupied herself in the library's play area, James paid rapt attention to the talk.
"I brought James here so that he can earn his Boy Scout merit badge in astronomy," said Jennifer.
Once the talk was completed, the group moved outside to the front lawn of the library for some star gazing. The clear, pleasant evening and crescent moon provided a perfect opportunity to view the wonders of the sky at dusk.
Kunkel set up a telescope and those present took turns getting a close-up look at the moon and other celestial attractions.
What appeared to be a switfly moving star across the sky was in fact the International Space Station in orbit, said Kunkel. Unfortunately it was moving at such a pace that it was difficult to view through the telescope.
The talk was informal and guests were free to ask questions. Light refreshments were provided to the large group assembled for the presentation.
Story time is going to the dogs! Saturdays, beginning June 9 from
10-11:30, we will have visiting dogs from Pleasure of Your Company Therapy Dogs,
Inc. (PoYC) available for story time. Come meet Hoover the Bassett Hound and
read - these dogs love a good story! Call the library for information and to
sign up 610-262-7351.
There will be a library Board meeting tonight at 7 pm. Please join us to see what is going on with our quest to seek funding and survive for another 50 years!
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