By Spencer Bowman, Northwest Room Librarian
Earlier this month, young storytellers from Write253’s summer writing camp found inspiration tucked between the shelves, cabinets, and microfilm reels of the Tacoma Public Library's Northwest Room. Known for its deep archive of regional history, the Northwest Room offered these campers a rich playground for creative exploration.
Each writer gravitated toward unique materials to help shape their projects. One writer searched though the large collection the Tacoma News Tribune on microfilm to trace the earliest reports of UFO sightings across Washington State. Another found inspiration in historical maps of the tide flats. They used cartographic details to find how the layout of this busy and evolving area changed and transformed through time. Other writers researched their old family home in Puyallup, and another looked into previous occupants and historic photographs of a Stadium District apartment. These writers delved into directories, building files, and the Tacoma-Pierce County Buildings Index to reconstruct personal and architectural histories.
Another writer was interested in the lesser-known cryptid named the Cadborosaurus, a sea dwelling monster seen off the coast of Washington State. This person drew from the Northwest Room’s clipping and research files and books on Pacific Northwest cryptozoology to find out as much as they could. Whether unraveling real local histories or crafting myths rooted in place, the campers proved that inspiration lives in the Northwest Room.
A poem by Isaiaz Brito-Soto, a Lincoln Highschool incoming junior. His poem is based on research he did about UFOs.
You’re my UFO
People gaze,
Seeking,
Spending time,
Searching for you.
So popular.
8 perspectives
Red and angry,
Powerful and large,
A dash of light to the stars,
Pure energy,
Disregarded potential.
Advanced beyond us?
Perhaps invasive?
You’re one of us now.
I see all of you, my darling.
You’re noticed
You’re appreciated
You’re loved
Go with,
Or without.
My arms will be open to yours,
Strange UFO
If you are interested in visiting the Northwest Room to find some inspiration or to research you can come in during our open hours on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday or make a research appointment for Wednesdays or Fridays. To make an appointment click HERE.
Northwest Room Hours
Tuesday - Open 4:00-8:00
Wednesday - Appointment only from 5:00-7:00
Thursday - Open 10:00-6:00
Friday - Appointment only from 2:00-5:00
Saturday - Open 10:00-6:00
