CORTLAND, NY (607NewsNow) — The launch of Area 51’s Local Creators Program will showcase authors and publishers in Cortland, Tompkins, Broome, and Onondaga Counties.

Authors who participate in the program will be able to sell their works at the Cortland store, host signings, meet and greets, and workshops.

“We want to be a bridge between local authors and the community,” said Sydney Lee, Local Creators Program Coordinator. “It can be difficult to show your books to a larger community if you’re self-published or just busy writing the next one, but as a business, we’re able to help.”

Giving authors exposure within their community, as well as ensuring creators are better compensated for their works, are motivators for the program.

“Growing up, books were my gateway to endless worlds,” said Fran Crowe, Owner of Area 51. “I built this store to give people a space where they can be themselves, express what they love, and discover others with similar passions. Now, it’s my turn to open doors for others. When young creatives see their work valued, they realize their dreams are possible. We’re here to light that spark.”

Those interested in participating in the program can email Sydney Lee at sydney.area51@gmail.com. Find more information about Area 51 on their Facebook here.