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How to Find Your Publishing Path
Writer's Day: Publishing Workshop
Saturday, August 22
10:00am - 11:30am
Main Library
Center for Adult Learning (CAL)An introduction to the world of publishing through the various publishing pathways in 2026, including traditional publishing, self-publishing, and hybrid models. Explore the similarities and major differences among the three models and learn to evaluate the benefits and drawbacks with a step-by-step walk through each process, giving you all the tools you need to decide which path is right for you. Presented by Laurie Dennison, an associate agent at Creative Media Agency.
This Publishing Workshop is presented as part of Jax Book Fest presents: Writer's Day.
Finding Your Publishing Path: This introduction to the world of publishing will discuss the various publishing pathways in 2026, including traditional publishing, self-publishing, and hybrid models. Learn how traditional publishing works, including the role of a literary agent, how major publishing houses acquire projects, and the basics of a traditional book release. Explore the similarities and major differences among the three models and learn to evaluate the benefits and drawbacks with a step-by-step walk through each process, giving you all the tools you need to decide which path is right for you.
About the Presenter: After earning her master’s from the University of Florida and a brief stint as an English teacher, Laurie Dennison spent over a decade as a freelance writer, ghostwriter, editor, and desktop publishing consultant before stepping into her role as an associate agent at Creative Media Agency. She served as a Pitch Wars mentor for five years, and she completed the Denver Publishing Institute in 2022. Laurie also works in the CMA film department with Paige Wheeler.
Laurie represents upmarket and commercial fiction and narrative nonfiction, including projects with strong book club potential, romance, and suspense. She is open to light grounded speculative elements across genres. Laurie loves strong character development, propulsive pacing, and engaging prose.
Funding for this program was provided through a grant from Florida Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities.

Pre-registration is strongly recommended (space is limited) and must be completed at least 24 hours prior to the start time. Note: A Jacksonville Public Library card and PIN are required for registration. If you do not already have one, you can apply for a library card online.
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request. Please allow 1–2 business days to process. Last-minute requests will be accepted, but may not be possible to fulfill. Please ask for Learning Services at (904) 255-2665 or email JPLPrograms@coj.net.
AGE GROUP: | Adults |
EVENT TYPE: | Authors, Books, and Writing |
TAGS: | Writer's Lab | Publishing Track | Jax Book Fest 2026 | Book Fest Writer's Day | Book Fest | adult programs |
