The Chautauqua Institution is a beautiful example of how, when an institution values the work of an artist; they don’t hold back in continued celebration and respect of that artist’s works. My time there was truly remarkable, and continues to be. Smith Memorial Library (Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System) has two copies of To Love Like Venus (one for check out, one for reference). Their library system is impeccable; they carefully categorize works with notes (as in my case) that it is from a Janus Prize author or when the work itself is the Janus Prize winner. They show respect to all writers in the anthology that my winning story was published in, listing all author names with their story titles.

This library houses all of my major works. And they sometimes send me pictures of the display. I remember when I was informed that I won and the time came to arrange a trip there, my concern was: but I have three young children… Their response? Oh, great to know. We’ll make sure you have a big enough room. They embraced my totality. I can go on, but… if you are in Chautauqua this season, do stop by Smith Memorial and see their prize winners displays. I believe they offer temporary library cards to visitors. Enjoy To Love Like Venus.