Young Writers Summer Camp
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about our camp
What is the drop-off and pick-up procedure like?
An authorized pick-up is expected to sign students in and out of the camp by coming to the 4th floor chess room and checking in on the roster.
For those driving, we recommend parking at the Sutter-Stockton Garage which is close by and more reliable than street parking.
We are located just steps from the Montgomery Muni and BART station, and a stop on the Muni 2 line for those traveling by public transit.
With parent permission, older students may sign themselves in and out of the camp. Please email programs@milibrary.org with the name of the student and your permission.
Do you allow early drop-off or late pick-up?
We do not offer late pick-up or early drop-off.
Campers will not be able to enter the chess room before 9am on camp days, and they are expected to be picked up promptly.
Parents who are routinely or excessively late (over 15 minutes) will be charged $25 for every 5 minutes they are late.
How many students do you need to run a camp? Is there a minimum number?
All camps need a minimum of 7 campers to hold the camp. Decisions to cancel the camp in case of under-enrollment will be made three weeks before.
Please register ahead of time to make sure we can plan accordingly.
Are we able to get a refund if we need to withdraw from the camp?
We offer refunds of the full price, minus the credit card processing fees, 30 days before the camp starts. Refunds minus a $75 administrative fee are available 7 days before the camp starts.
To request a refund, please email programs@milibrary.org.
"A Day in the Life" of a Young Writer at Mechanics' Summer Camp
| Time | Agenda |
|---|---|
| 9:00am | Drop-off, Day begins |
| 9-10:30am | Morning meeting, hands-on workshop, and writing skill games |
| 10:30-11:00am | Morning Break |
| 11:00-12:00pm | Writing Sprints |
| 12:00-1:00pm | Lunch |
| 1:00-1:45pm | Quick coaching and hands-on workshop |
| 1:45-2:00pm | Afternoon break |
| 2:00-2:30pm | Writer's club - collaboration, free write/edit, and guest lecturer time |
| 2:30-2:45pm | Closing Circle/Reflections |
| 2:45-3:00pm | Clean up and Pick-up |
A Week of Storytelling, Creativity, and Community at Mechanics’ Institute
For the first time in its history, Mechanics’ Institute is thrilled to welcome young writers into our halls for a week-long immersive writing camp designed especially for kids. Known primarily for adult programming and youth/adult chess education, Mechanics’ Institute is excited to expand its youth offerings with this imaginative, hands-on storytelling experience.
This summer camp invites aspiring writers ages 11–13 to explore the essential elements of fiction while building confidence, creativity, and community. Over the course of one week, students will develop and complete an original short story—crafted from idea to final draft—in a supportive, inspiring environment.
What Young Writers Will Learn
Through a blend of guided instruction, interactive workshops, and dedicated writing time, campers will learn the foundations of strong storytelling, including:
- Generating and refining story ideas
- Creating vivid characters and imaginative worlds
Understanding story structure, including beginnings, midpoints, and endings
- Exploring different plotting approaches
- Learning how to give and receive thoughtful, constructive feedback
By the end of the week, each participant will complete a 2–5 page original short story with a clear narrative arc.
Special keepsake: Each finished story will be printed and added to the Mechanics’ Institute Library Collection, giving young writers the rare thrill of becoming a published author.
Writing Lab & Collaboration
The Mechanics’ Institute’s historic reading rooms and meeting spaces will transform into a collaborative writing studio where students will:
- Participate in focused writing sprints to build stamina and momentum
- Work independently on drafting and revision
- Join small-group critique circles to share work and ideas
These sessions emphasize encouragement, experimentation, and creative risk-taking, helping students grow both as writers and collaborators.
Community, Creativity & Play
Writing is social—and fun! The week also includes:
- Built-in social time to help students connect and form friendships
- Creativity-boosting games and activities that spark imagination, observation, and problem-solving
These playful elements support the core writing work while making camp a joyful, confidence-building experience.
Camp Details
Age Range: 11–13 years old
Dates:
- Session 1: June 22–26
- Session 2: July 6–10
Time:
9:30am–3:30pm daily (one-hour break, lunch provided at noon)
Camp Fee:
- Members: $450
- Non-Members: $500
About the Instructor
Terri Selting David is an author, artist, animator, and curriculum designer—and above all, a storyteller.
She began her professional career in 1996 as a character animator, working in television, film, video games, and comics, where she developed a deep understanding of character, movement, and narrative. In 2015, Terri co-founded a summer camp serving underrepresented students interested in STEM, where she led curriculum and content development focused on creativity, confidence, and hands-on learning.
It was during this work that Terri discovered her passion for fiction writing as a way to empower young people—especially those in underrepresented communities—to see themselves as inventive problem-solvers and protagonists of their own stories.
Terri is the author of eight full-length novels across three Middle Grade and Young Adult series, known for strong female leads, nuanced characters, and adventure-driven plots. Her work balances imagination and excitement with emotional depth and thoughtfulness, making her an ideal guide for young writers ready to stretch their skills.
Questions? Fill out the form below!