Boston Public Library Announces Its New Writer-in-Residence for 2025-26

Boston Public Library Welcomes New Writer-in-Residence

The Associates of the Boston Public Library (BPL) proudly announces the appointment of Zarlasht Niaz as the Writer-in-Residence for the 2025-26 season. Niaz, who hails from Minneapolis, Minnesota, is an accomplished Afghan writer armed with a B.A. in Global Studies and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing. During this prestigious residenc, she will be working on her novel-in-verse titled UNFURLING, exploring profound themes of identity and belonging.

The Writer-in-Residence program, which has been in operation for over two decades, recently saw an increase in its stipend for selected writers, thanks to the generous support of an anonymous donor. Niaz's stipend for the year will amount to $70,000, a significant bump from last year's $50,000, enabling her to fully focus on her writing endeavors. In addition, she will be granted $2,500 for coaching or editing and a private office at the Central Library, providing her the space and resources needed for her creative pursuits.

Niaz's winning submission impressed a panel of judges composed of authors, publishers, and literary agents, who reviewed a record 526 applications this year. Olivia Swomley, a senior editor and member of the judging panel, expressed her enthusiasm for Niaz's work, stating, "To beautifully and poetically tackle themes of sibling violence and coming of age as an Afghan-American in rural Wisconsin takes courage and heart. Fortunately, Zarlasht Niaz has a great deal of both."

Her novel-in-verse focuses on the lives of Afghan American teenagers Yasaman and Zubair as they navigate the complexities of their identity against the backdrop of post-9/11 rural Wisconsin. The emotional depth of the story promises to resonate with readers, shedding light on pressing issues such as Islamophobia and the struggles of young people torn between cultures. Niaz shared her excitement upon receiving the news of her selection: "When I got the call that I won, I couldn't believe it. It's a great reassurance to know that the stories we feel most afraid to tell can find such profound support in the world."

Zarlasht Niaz will formally present her work at the Writer-in-Residence Reading on October 7, 2025, at the Boston Public Library. This highly anticipated event promises a glimpse into her creative process and insights into her narrative. To secure tickets or learn more about the event, interested attendees can visit the BPL’s Writer-in-Residence website.

The Associates of the Boston Public Library is a dedicated non-profit organization established to promote and preserve the library’s Special Collections and its cultural heritage. Since its founding in 1972, the Associates have been pivotal in supporting various library initiatives, including the Writer-in-Residence program and other cultural engagements.

For those wanting to stay updated with Niaz's work and library events, follow the Associates of the Boston Public Library on social media platforms such as Instagram, Bluesky, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube or visit their official website AssociatesBPL.org. This year promises to be a fruitful one for both Niaz and the Boston Public Library, where literature continues to thrive.